BYOF

There are three parts to the cost of Disney World, that people consider when planning a trip. Getting there, staying there and going through the gates. Once through the gates as noon approaches is when guests are reminded of that hidden fourth cost of Disney World. Food. Oh, and you're trapped inside the gates.

Unless you are staying off site, spending some money to eat in one of the Parks is inevitable and in some cases even desirable. (I'm thinking of you Gertie's ice cream! You too, sugar-free Kringla Bakeri og Cafe chocolate mousse!) Everyone has their favorite treat or place to eat at Disney World.

But it costs. It costs dearly. It will drain whatever money you brought along. That's why it's advisable to try to minimize the costs by bringing some food of your own. You can pack it in your suitcase if it's non-perishable or use a 30 minute shopping stop on your way from the airport to the World.

Breakfast items are especially handy, since this will save you having to fight the crowds of the resort food courts in the morning. It's also nearly a necessity when traveling with small children. The moderate resorts all have small refrigerators in the room. The value resorts offer them for rent, which isn't that great of a deal. Hauling a small cooler along may be a wiser option. In addition, most food courts have microwaves.

This is also the only way to accommodate some special dietary needs at Disney World. They do try to be very accommodating, but it doesn't always work out. My daughter is lactose intolerant, so bringing our own container of Lactaid milk is essential, even if we plan on eating breakfast in the food court. The results of letting her have lactose just once isn't something I want to have to deal with on my vacation. Many people who prefer Pepsi over Coke will find that they will need to bring their own 12-pack.

But most of all, just having one meal in your room each day will probably save an average of $8-10 per person.