13 Brilliant Money Saving Tips For Disney World Vacations
Want to save money on your Disney World Vacation but not sure how? Don't miss these 13 money saving tips for Disney World Vacations.
Welcome to the world of Disney magic, where dreams come true and memories are made!
Planning a trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth – Walt Disney World – is an exciting experience and yet sometimes frustrating, but it's no secret that the costs can add up.
But have no fear! As a mom of four who vacationed here for years before moving to Florida, I am here to help guide your planning with these 13 invaluable tips to save money on your Disney World vacation without compromising the magic.
Money Saving Tips For Disney World
From savvy planning to insider secrets, these tips will help you make the most of your budget while creating a truly unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones. So, fasten your seatbelts, grab your mouse ears, and let's go on a magical journey filled with thrills, laughter, remarkable savings, and a little bit of pixie dust!
1. Plan and book in advance to save money on your Disney World Vacation.
One of the best ways to save money on your Walt Disney World vacation is to plan ahead. Disney offers early-bird discounts and promotions that can significantly reduce your overall costs. By booking your accommodations, park tickets, and dining reservations in advance, you'll have a better chance of securing the best deals and availability.
2. Travel during off-peak seasons to save money at Disney World
Choosing to visit Walt Disney World during off-peak seasons can result in substantial savings. Prices tend to be lower, and you'll experience shorter wait times for attractions.
Consider planning your trip during non-holiday weekdays or during the school year if possible. Not only will you save money, but you'll also enjoy a more relaxed and less crowded park experience.
The best way for a stress-free vacation is to plan ahead, travel with lower crowds, and know what the non-negotiables of your party are – including where you can find the Princesses in Magic Kingdom.
3. Explore Good Neighbor Resorts at Walt Disney World
While staying at a Disney resort can be magical, it's often more expensive. Consider looking into nearby hotels or vacation rentals that offer competitive rates. Many off-site accommodations provide complimentary shuttle services to the parks, allowing you to save on transportation costs as well.
4. Pack your own snacks and drinks.
One of the best tips to save money on any vacation is to bring snacks and food for meals.
Food and beverages can quickly add up at the parks. To save some money, pack your own snacks, water bottles, and refillable mugs. You can refill your water bottles at various drinking fountains throughout the parks for free, and having snacks on hand will keep hunger at bay and prevent impulsive purchases.
5. Opt for quick-service dining.
While Disney offers a wide range of fantastic dining options, choosing quick-service restaurants instead of table-service meals can be a budget-friendly alternative. Quick-service locations offer delicious meals at more affordable prices and still provide a wide variety of options to satisfy everyone's cravings.
6. Take advantage of Disney's free entertainment.
If you listen to only one of these Disney vacation tips, listen to this one: take advantage of Disney's free entertainment at the resorts.
Walt Disney World offers a multitude of free entertainment options that can save you money while still providing magical experiences. Whether you're spending a day at Disney Springs or resort hopping, there is so much to do!
7. Use Disney transportation.
Utilize Disney's complimentary transportation services to save on rental car expenses and parking fees. The Walt Disney World Resort provides buses, monorails, Skyliners, and boats that connect the parks, hotels, and Disney Springs. Not only is this a cost-effective option, but it also eliminates the hassle of navigating traffic and finding parking.
8. Consider purchasing multi-day tickets.
If you plan on spending several days exploring Walt Disney World, purchasing multi-day tickets can save you money compared to buying single-day tickets. Disney offers ticket options that allow you to visit multiple parks on different days, providing flexibility and cost savings.
9. Buy Disney Gift Cards at a discount.
One of my favorite Disney vacation tips.
If you are a member of Costco or Sam's Club or have a Target RED Card, you have access to purchasing Disney Gift Cards at a discount! Take advantage of that!
10. Buy (or make) Mickey and Minnie Ears before you go.
Have a favorite pair of ears you love but not the price tag? Make sure to check eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Etsy (affiliate link), or resell sites like Mercari (use code AKENUX to get up to $30) or Poshmark for discounted Mickey Ears before your vacation.
Feeling crafty? Consider making Mickey and Minnie Ears yourself! You can design a pair for each outfit and even have a matching family pair of ears!
11. Plan your vacation with Get Away Today!
One of my best money saving tips for Disney World Vacations is to book your vacation through Get Away Today. When you book your Walt Disney World vacation with Get Away Today it includes their complimentary Concierge Service. That means they will take care of all the details including grabbing those hard-to-get reservations and price monitoring.
12. Buy a refillable popcorn bucket.
Make sure to purchase your refillable popcorn bucket at the beginning of your vacation! While it may feel like a splurge, popcorn refills are just over $2 so you will save money on snacks in the long run. Just remember to bring it to the Parks each day!
13. Don't underestimate resort days.
Take advantage of the resort pool as well as the resort activities during the day and into the evening. Make sure to check your resort for the daily activities schedule. Our favorite resort activities include roasting marshmallows and movie night!
If you're a DVC Member, make sure to check out The Community Hall where you can rent movies to watch and check out board games to play in your room!
By implementing these money-saving tips, you can make your Walt Disney World vacation more affordable while still creating those enchanting and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Remember, it's the magic in the moments that truly matter, and with a little planning and smart choices, you can make your dream vacation a reality without breaking the bank.
What is your favorite money saving tips for Disney World Vacations?