My family went on a $3,600 VIP tour at Universal Orlando for Halloween. We didn't have to wait in line for anything and got unlimited food.

Halloween Horror Nights is an annual Universal event held in the fall.Carly Caramanna

• I've visited the Universal parks for 30 years, and I think its VIP tours are a worthwhile splurge.
• I've done six private tours before, and I recently did a Halloween Horror Nights one for $3,600.

The Universal parks — both in Orlando and Hollywood — offer daily VIP tours that offer quick and private access to attractions and food.

There are several different tour types, including fully private or group tours for up to 13 people. I've done six fully private tours, where the guides allow you to customize the day based on your preferences and interests. The price for us has typically been between $3,500 and $4,500, though it really depends on the size of your group.

My most recent private tour was at Universal Orlando for its annual Halloween event, Halloween Horror Nights. I've been visiting since the 90s and wanted to splurge as the tour allows for special expedited access to all the event's haunted houses.

We booked a VIP tour (dubbed the RIP Tour), as soon as it became available in April. By booking early, we could also request our favorite Universal guide, Paul.

Our 10-person private tour cost $3,600, before the optional gratuity. Here's what it was like.