Ways To Save at Disney World: 32 Money-Saving Tips (2024)

Disney World vacations are perfect for creating special family memories, yet the costs can add up quickly. As a dad who has taken his family to Disney World multiple times, I’ve learned insider tips for enjoying the magic affordably.

In this guide, I share 32 effective strategies to cut down expenses at Disney World. I’ll cover the most affordable times to visit, how to find budget-friendly accommodation and tickets, how to eat without overspending, the best places for affordable shopping, and enjoyable free activities for the whole family.

With these easy-to-follow tips, a magical Disney vacation that fits your budget is within reach. Let’s dive into the ways to save at Disney World!

1. Partner with a Disney Travel Planner

One of the easiest ways to save money at Disney World is by partnering with a reputable Disney travel agency like The Vacationeer. Their expertise in uncovering deals not always accessible to the general public can significantly reduce the cost of your trip. This method ensures your vacation is magical while remaining within budget.

• Customized Planning: The Vacationeer provides personalized itineraries and expert advice, making them a top choice as an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.
• Exclusive Deals: They offer access to hidden discounts and the latest promotions, offering the potential for considerable savings.
• Free Service: Their planning services come at no extra cost, including interest-free payment plans, making budgeting easier.

From personal experience, working with The Vacationeer has greatly simplified our Disney vacation planning. Their deep knowledge and thorough planning have been invaluable, especially when navigating Disney World’s complex options. This partnership has consistently led to our vacations being magical and more affordable than we could have managed on our own.

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2. Use Disney Discounts & Deals

Proactively seeking out Disney’s various promotions can lead to significant savings. Our family has benefitted from seasonal discounts and special offers, often discovered through diligent research or by working with our travel planner.

• Check Special Offers: Regularly visit Disney’s official deals page.
• Seasonal Discounts: Plan around times when Disney offers reduced rates.
• Bundle Savings: Look into package deals that include lodging, tickets, and dining. Discuss your options with a trusted Disney travel planner like The Vacationeer.

3. Book Value Resorts

Opting for Disney World’s Value Resorts has allowed us to enjoy the perks of staying on-site without the premium price tag. Resorts like Disney’s Art of Animation, Pop Century, and the three All-Star properties (Disney’s cheapest hotels) provide themed experiences at a fraction of the cost. The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness are also worth considering if you are outdoorsy and adventurous!

• Affordable Rates: Enjoy competitive pricing without sacrificing the Disney magic.
• Resort Perks: Early Theme Park Entry and complimentary transportation add value.
• Themed Environments: Each resort offers unique Disney-themed decorations and pools, something my kids really enjoy.

4. Travel During Off-Periods

My family always tries to visit Disney World during less busy times (though it can be challenging with two kids in school). Traveling during off-peak periods, like late winter or early fall, can significantly reduce vacation costs. These times offer lower prices on accommodations and sometimes park tickets and the advantage of experiencing the parks with smaller crowds, something my family really appreciates!

• Strategic Planning: Aim for seasons like late January, early February, or September for potential savings.
• School Schedules: Work around school commitments to find a suitable off-peak window.
• Enhanced Experience: Enjoy shorter lines and more intimate encounters with your favorite attractions.

5. Skip the Park Hopper Option

For many families, including ours, choosing not to add the Park Hopper optioncan significantly reduce the cost of your Disney World tickets. Staying in a single park per day also allows for a more relaxed experience and avoids the temptation of hopping, which adds unnecessary stress and expense.

• Simplify Planning: Focus on one park per day to maximize experiences.
• Reduce Costs: Save money by avoiding the premium for park-hopping.
• Less Rushing: Enjoy a more relaxed pace without switching parks.

6. Buy Discounted Tickets

Understanding the ticket pricing structure of Disney World is crucial if you want to get the best deal. Ticket prices can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of year, the number of days, and the parks you choose to visit. You can save money by purchasing multi-day tickets, which can lower the cost per day. Additionally, special offers are often available for certain groups, such as Florida residents and military families.

• Opt for multi-day tickets: This strategy can significantly reduce your daily ticket costs.
• Plan ahead and buy tickets early: Booking tickets well in advance often allows you to secure lower prices.
• Explore special offers: Always check for any available discounts or promotions, especially if you reside in Florida or are a military member.

7. Downsize Park Plans

While purchasing multi-day tickets can decrease the daily cost, the total expense may still be significant. If committing to multiple days in the parks doesn’t align with your budget or schedule, consider downsizing your park plans. By focusing on fewer days, you can still capture the essence of Disney without the extensive cost.

• Selective Scheduling: Plan a shorter visit, focusing on just the top attractions that are most important to you.
• Non-Park Days: Take advantage of your resort’s pool, explore other resorts on the monorail loop, or discover other free local attractions or activities.
• Budget Efficiency: Spend less on tickets for a cost-effective trip. Use our Disney World Cost Calculator to assist you in determining how to make your trip more affordable.

8. Use Disney Transportation

Disney World’s complimentary transportation services have been a staple in our travel plans, eliminating the need for car rentals and parking fees. The convenience and added Disney flair of buses, boats, monorails, and the Skyliner enhance the journey between destinations.

• Cost-Efficient: Save on parking and car rental costs.
• Convenient Access: Seamless travel to and from parks and resorts.
• Unique Experience: Enjoy the novelty of Disney-themed transportation options.

9. Take a Day Trip Around Central Florida

Exploring the attractions beyond Disney World has added diversity to our vacations without the additional park ticket costs. From beach days to local town explorations to visits to the Kennedy Space Center, Central Florida is rich with budget-friendly options that are just short day trips from Disney World.

• Visit Beaches: Spend a day at nearby beaches like Cocoa Beach. Daytona Beach and Clearwater Beach for sun and relaxation.
• Explore Local Towns: Discover the charm of small towns such as Celebration or Winter Garden, known for their unique shops and eateries.
• Relax at Natural Springs: Enjoy nature at places like hom*osassa Springs Wildlife State Park or De Leon Springs, perfect for a day of outdoor fun.

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10. Take Mid-Day Breaks

Our family swears by retreating to our hotel for a mid-day break. It’s a perfect way to recharge, avoid the hottest part of the day, and reduce impulse spending on snacks and drinks in the parks.

• Recharge: A rest or swim can refresh everyone for evening activities.
• Save on Snacks: Use hotel amenities (kitchenette or mini-fridge) to save money by snacking in your room between meals.
• Avoid Peak Heat: Skip the hottest part of the day for a more comfortable experience.

11. Pack Food & Beverages

Packing our own snacks and drinks has made our Disney trips more affordable. This strategy is especially beneficial as my daughter is a picky eater and appreciates having her favorite snacks easily accessible. It also ensures we have a mix of healthy and sweet options available at all times.

• Reduce Meal Costs: Disney’s policy allows guests to bring food and drinks into the parks. Bringing a cooler with snacks, sandwiches, and beverages offers significant savings on meals.
• Convenience & Satisfaction: Catering to picky eaters or family members with specific dietary needs is easier when you have preferred snacks on hand, eliminating the search for suitable park food.
• Long-Day Fuel: Keeping snacks readily available is invaluable for long days at the park, allowing for instant recharging without interrupting the adventure for meal breaks.

12. Utilize Grocery Delivery Services

Taking advantage of grocery delivery services can be a game-changer for your Disney World vacation. Having groceries delivered directly to your hotel room saves you money and gives you the flexibility to enjoy meals and snacks on your own terms. This can be particularly helpful for early mornings before hitting the parks, relaxing evenings after a long day, or if you stay at one of the family suites at Disney World.

• Suite Convenience: Ideal for family suites, making full meals or quick snacks easily manageable.
• Cost-Effective: Avoid the high cost of park food by enjoying homemade meals.
• Flexible Dining: Perfect for early risers or late-night snacks, offering a range of choices to fit your family’s taste.

13. Research Dining Deals

Finding dining deals and promotions has consistently allowed our family to save money at Disney World. Quick-service restaurants and special meal deals offer significant value. For those considering the Disney Dining Plan, it’s worthwhile to assess if it matches your dining habits for potential savings. For tailored advice, The Vacationeer can assist with dining reservations or suggestions.

• Value Options: Look for quick-service spots that provide substantial meals at a lower cost.
• Meal Deals: Watch for special offers at various dining locations.
• Smart Timing: Enjoy meals during non-peak hours for a more relaxed dining experience without the wait.

14. Eat Big Breakfasts and Split Other Meals

Kicking off with a big breakfast is our go-to strategy, not just for the energy it gives us for the day’s adventures but also because breakfast is typically more affordable than lunch or dinner at Disney. This approach helps us save, especially when we choose to split larger meals later in the day.

• Hearty Starts: Choose filling breakfast options at your hotel or Disney restaurants, taking advantage of the lower cost of morning meals.
• Character Breakfasts: Combine the fun of meeting Disney characters with a substantial meal to start your day.
• Sharing Is Caring: Apply the sharing approach to both entrees and desserts for dinner, enjoying a variety of flavors while managing meal costs.

15. Limit Alcohol Purchases

Alcohol can significantly increase your dining expenses at Disney World. By limiting or carefully selecting when and where you purchase alcoholic beverages, you can enjoy a drink or two without the hefty price tag. Consider this strategy both in and out of the parks to keep your budget in check.

• Selective Splurging: Reserve alcoholic beverages for special meals.
• Happy Hour Hopping: Seek out the best drink specials outside the parks.
• Water Over Wine: My wife and I usually opt for complimentary water with meals to keep costs down.

16. Use Mobile Ordering

The convenience of mobile ordering through the My Disney Experience app has revolutionized our park dining experience. This innovative tool saves valuable park time and supports budget-conscious dining by providing transparent pricing and enhanced decision-making opportunities.

• Skip the Line: Order ahead to avoid long waits during peak meal times.
• Plan Meals: View menus and prices to make informed dining choices.
• Impulse Control: Decide on meals in advance to avoid spontaneous, costly decisions.

17. Don’t Buy Water

To stay hydrated in Florida’s heat without the high cost of bottled water, we bring refillable bottles to Disney World. The parks offer numerous water refill stations, and quick-service restaurants provide complimentary ice water upon request. This approach is not only budget-friendly — easily saving a family of four an estimated $100+ over a week long trip — but also supports Disney’s commitment to reducing environmental waste.

• Eco-Friendly Hydration: Save money and minimize plastic waste by using refillable water bottles.
• Free Water Access: Utilize the abundant water refill stations and request free ice water at any quick-service eatery.
• Convenience: Easily refill your bottle throughout the day at strategically located stations in the parks, ensuring constant hydration.

18. Stay in an Off-Site Hotel

While my family enjoys the convenience of staying inside Disney for easy access to the park, choosing a hotel outside of Disney can lead to significant savings. Off-site options typically offer lower rates, complimentary shuttles to the parks, and additional benefits not always found at Disney resorts.

• Lower Costs: Off-site hotels are generally less expensive.
• Free Shuttle Service: Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to Disney World.
• More Amenities: Benefit from complimentary breakfast, larger rooms, and proximity to affordable dining choices outside the Disney bubble.

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19. Use Credit Card Points & Rewards

We’ve saved significantly by using credit card points for hotel stays and flights. It’s worth planning your credit card use in advance to maximize these benefits for your Disney vacation.

• Book Travel: Use points for flights and hotel bookings.
• Disney Perks: Some cards offer specific Disney rewards.
• Strategic Spending: Plan purchases to maximize point accumulation.

20. Purchase Disney Gift Cards

Disney gift cards can be an excellent tool for budgeting and often come with the potential for savings. You can purchase these cards in advance, sometimes at a discount from specific retailers, and use them for nearly everything at Disney World. They can help you set a spending limit on souvenirs and dining, making it easier to stick to your budget.

• Discounted Rates: Find Disney gift cards at lower prices through select retailers.
• Easy Budgeting: Pre-load spending money to keep track of expenses.
• Versatile Use: Pay for meals, merchandise, and more with gift cards.

21. Shop for Souvenirs Wisely

Souvenir shopping is an enjoyable part of the Disney experience, but doing it too early in your trip can lead to impulsive buys and overspending. It’s often beneficial to wait, compare prices, and think about what Disney World souvenirs will be meaningful. This strategy can prevent buying items you might later regret and helps you find the best deals.

• Shop Later: Save souvenir shopping for the end of your trip to make sure you choose wisely and not on impulse.
• Pre-Trip Buys: Find Disney items at lower prices before you go to the park.
• Budget Wisely: Decide on a souvenir budget to keep spending in check.

22. Visit Nearby Outlets

Exploring the outlet malls near Orlando is a savvy way to discover Disney merchandise at significantly reduced prices. These outlets often carry overstock from the parks and resorts, allowing guests to purchase authentic Disney items without the premium park prices.

• Discounted Merchandise: Find authentic Disney items at lower prices.
• Similar Park Products: Discover items like those sold in the parks but for less.
• Combine Savings: Pair outlet shopping with other non-park activities for a day of affordable fun.

For those looking to do Disney on a strict budget, it may be best to skip buying souvenirs at the parks altogether. The possibilities for making unique and inexpensive keepsakes are endless. From custom t-shirts to commemorative scrapbooks, there is no limit to the fun DIY projects you can take on before or after your vacation.

• Personalized Creations: Design apparel or accessories for (or from) your trip.
• Collect Free Items: Use Disney World maps and celebration buttons for DIY projects.
• Family Activities: Engage everyone in making unique souvenirs. My artistic daughter especially loves this activity!

24. Order Kid’s Meals

Many people are unaware that Disney permits adults to order from the kids’ menu. Regardless of age or appetite size, kids’ meals are a budget-friendly choice, appealing to both children and adults alike. These meals provide affordability and a range of appealing options, from familiar dishes to more refined choices. My kids love these entrees and desserts, but so does my wife!

• Save Money: Kid’s meals cost less and are a good choice for anyone not wanting a large meal.
• Just Right Portions: Perfect for adults who prefer smaller portions.
• Tasty Variety: From classic favorites to healthier options, there’s something for everyone.

25. Use Ride-Share Services

While Disney World hotel guests enjoy complimentary transportation around the park, off-site guests without shuttle service or those seeking to explore beyond Disney may benefit from ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. These services are frequently less expensive than renting a car or paying for parking.

• Cost Savings: Eliminate the need for costly parking and car rental fees.
• Convenient Pick-ups and Drop-offs: Enjoy the convenience of being picked up and dropped off directly at the park entrances.
• Versatile Exploration: Ride-sharing services provide the freedom to explore other attractions and locations in Orlando beyond Disney.

26. Bring Your Own Stroller

Bringing a stroller from home or renting a stroller from a local company saves money compared to park rentals. This strategy reduces costs and ensures your child is comfortable in a familiar stroller.

• Avoid Rental Fees: Eliminate the cost of daily stroller rentals at the parks.
• Familiar Comfort: Children may prefer their own stroller over a rental.
• Rental Discounts: Local companies often offer better rates for longer rentals.

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27. Pack Essentials

Adding items like sunscreen, hats, rain ponchos, swim gear, toiletries, and water bottles to your packing list for Disney World will help you avoid spending extra money at the parks. We’ve learned that bringing these essentials helps us avoid the high prices inside Disney.

• Avoid Park Markups: Items are often pricier inside the parks.
• Stay Prepared: Ensure you have everything needed for a day at Disney.
• Reduce Impulse Buys: Lessen the need to purchase overpriced items out of necessity.

28. Be Strategic With Meet & Greets

Using the My Disney Experience app to plan your Disney World meet and greets not only enhances your visit but can also help save you money. Efficient scheduling means less waiting and more park enjoyment, possibly reducing the need for more extended stays to see your favorite characters.

• App-Assisted Planning: Find times and locations for meet and greets with the app.
• Off-Peak Meetings: Aim for quieter times, like meal hours, for shorter waits.
• Best Character Dining: Booking one of the best Disney Character Dining experiences combines the joy of meeting characters with a great meal, maximizing your time and investment.

29. Maximize Free Entertainment & Activities at Disney Resorts

After a fun-filled day at the parks, Disney resorts offer plenty of free in-room entertainment and resort activities to keep the magic going without extra costs. From watching classic Disney movies in your room to joining in on poolside games and movie nights, there’s no shortage of ways to relax and enjoy. These complimentary offerings make it easy to plan a restful evening or a leisurely day away from the park crowds.

• In-Room Movies: Unwind with Disney’s TV and movie selections available in your room. My movie-loving son could sit and watch movies all day!
• Resort Activities: Enjoy free scavenger hunts and character experiences, perfect for a day off from the parks.
• Explore and Relax: Use the My Disney Experience app to discover all the free entertainment options.

30. Celebrate Special Occasions at No Extra Cost

Celebrating milestones at Disney World doesn’t have to cost extra. Birthdays, anniversaries, and more can be extra special when you inform staff about your celebration and pick up a complimentary celebration button from Guest Services. In my family’s experience, this often leads to special greetings and sometimes freebies from Cast Members and characters.

• Inform Staff: Tell Cast Members about your special occasion for potential surprises.
• Complimentary Buttons: Get a free button from Guest Services to make your celebration known.
• Surprise Perks: Watch for possible free desserts at dining spots, making your celebration even sweeter.

31. Explore Seasonal Events and Festivals

Visit Disney World during seasonal festivals for unique experiences without paying extra admission. Events like the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival offer special entertainment and thematic displays. The allows free entry, too, but you’ll need to pay for the international dishes and drinks you want to try.

• Cultural Celebrations: Enjoy global artistry at the Festival of the Arts and culinary explorations at the Food & Wine Festival.
• No Extra Entry Fee: Experience the festival’s ambiance, entertainment, concerts, and special activities with just your park ticket.
• Food Costs: Remember, while the Food & Wine Festival’s entry is included, sampling from its marketplace booths is an additional expense.

32. Discover Free Fun at Disney Springs

In addition to shopping, dining, and entertainment, Disney Springs is the hub of the Walt Disney World Resort. It’s packed with complimentary activities and entertainment, and Disney Springs is free to visit. Perfect for families who want to experience (potentially) budget-friendly Disney magic beyond the theme parks.

• Stroll and Enjoy: Wander through themed areas, soaking up live music and street performances.
• Participate in Events: Dive into free events and activities available year-round.
• Explore the LEGO Store: Enjoy the LEGO Store’s free play areas and view impressive LEGO creations.

FAQs: Savvy Savings at Disney World

How can I save on meals at Disney World?

• Opt for quick-service restaurants over sit-down dining.
• Consider sharing larger meal portions.
• Pack your own snacks and drinks to minimize food expenses in the park.

What’s the best way to purchase Disney World tickets?

• Buy multi-day tickets for a lower per-day cost.
• Consider promotions and special offers for residents, if applicable.
• Purchase tickets in advance to lock in (potentially) lower rates.

Are there any free activities at Disney World?

• Enjoy street performances and parades included with your park admission.
• Explore interactive exhibits and play areas at the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs.
• Participate in hotel-based activities like movie nights and scavenger hunts.

How can I manage my souvenir spending?

• Set a budget for souvenirs to avoid overspending.
• Wait until later in your trip to make thoughtful purchases.
• Visit nearby outlets for discounted Disney merchandise.

Is staying at a Disney resort worth the cost?

• Disney resorts offer unique benefits like themed environments, early park entry, and convenient transportation.
• Consider Disney’s Value Resorts for a more budget-friendly option.
• Weigh the cost against the convenience and extra perks provided by Disney hotels.

Conclusion: A Magical Journey Within Your Budget

In conclusion, embarking on a budget-friendly Disney World vacation is entirely possible with the right strategies in place. From selecting the best times to visit to leveraging the expertise of Disney travel planners like The Vacationeer, each of the 32 ways to save at Disney World shared here is a stepping stone towards achieving an affordable Disney experience. Remember, the secret lies in balancing meticulous planning with the desire for spontaneous Disney magic. This allows for a journey filled with joy, enchantment, and savings.

For those seeking personalized guidance, The Vacationer offers expert resources to ensure your adventure will be economic AND magical. Their insights into choosing the best time to visit, booking discounts, and other strategic cost-saving measures provide a clear path to maximize the wonder of Disney without breaking the bank. Let’s embark on this journey together, with every detail tailored to fit your dream Disney vacation within your budget.

The Vacationeer: Your Dream Disney Vacation Awaits

When planning a trip to Disney World, the services of a specialized Disney travel planner like The Vacationeer can be invaluable. As an Earmarked Diamond-level Authorized Disney Travel Planner, they offer a wealth of expertise and resources to ensure your vacation is both affordable and tailored to your wishes.

• Personalized Planning: The Vacationeerprovides customized itineraries that fit your interests, schedule, and budget, making your Disney experience uniquely yours.
• Expertise and Insider Knowledge: Their team stays up-to-date with the latest park news, attractions, and dining options, offering insights that go beyond the ordinary.
• Stress-Free Booking: From hotel accommodations to dining reservations and park tickets, The Vacationeer handles all the details, allowing you to relax and look forward to your trip.
• Cost-Saving Strategies: They help you navigate Disney’s various deals and promotions, ensuring you get the best value for your vacation.
• Best of all, their services are FREE!

Booking with The Vacationeer means embarking on a Disney journey that is expertly planned, wonderfully enjoyable, and surprisingly affordable. Contact The Vacationeer now for a free quote and consultation, and take the first step towards your budget-friendly Disney World vacation!

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