7 Tips for Saving Money on a Walt Disney World Vacation

Okay, I know it's only a top 7 list (and not a top 10), but still worth checking out!

Okay, you’ve decided to take the plunge and plan a visit to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Now you’re faced with the realization that a trip for the family to Walt Disney World can add up. Getting there, staying there, hotels, food, and souvenirs can all make a vacation to Walt Disney World out of reach for many. Here are seven tips to make your vacation to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom a bit more affordable.

1. When to Visit for the Best Deals (and smallest crowds)

Walt Disney World is the least busy, and hotels are less expensive, during off-peak times. Besides visiting during off-peak times to save some money, the parks are less crowded and you’ll wait in line for rides much less then you would other times.

The off-peak times for Walt Disney World are basically anytime that schools are in session (that leaves out summer, Christmas to New Years, and Easter). Generally, the least busy period is the first week of January. And being Florida, it’s not always cold in January, and the temperatures can be in the 70s.

2. Disney Vacation Club – Deluxe Disney Resorts Without the Deluxe Price

Disney Vacation Club is Disney’s timeshare program. The timeshare units are all on property and include a kitchen (great for making meals and saving money). You don’t have to be an “owner” to enjoy the accommodations. Members often sell points which can be redeemed for accommodation and the total price paid is often less than half of what the unit would cost you if you rented it directly from Disney. Check out http://www.dvcnews.com/ for more information.

3. Flying to Orlando? Forget the Rental Car

If you’re flying in to Orlando International Airport, and staying on Disney property, then you don’t need a rental car. All of the Disney hotels are linked to the theme parks by monorail, bus, and/or water craft. Once you’re on property, there’s no need to drive. And getting to Walt Disney World from Orlando International Airport is now easier than ever (and free!) with Disney’s Magical Express, a service for guests staying at the Walt Disney World resort. Simply board the Magical Express bus at the airport and it will take you directly to Walt Disney World. They can even have your bags delivered to your room so you can go straight to the parks and begin your vacation. And when you’re returning to the airport, simply check in at the resort and check your bags through to your destination (available for most airlines) and enjoy more time at the parks.

4. Eat, Drink, and Save… The Disney Dining Plan

For a set price per day, per guest, you can dine at your choice of over 100 restaurants throughout Walt Disney World. The Disney Dining Plan allows you to prepare by knowing exactly how much you’ll spend on meals each day.

For about $37 per day for adults, and $11 per child, you’ll receive credits for one full service meal (appetizer, main course, dessert, and beverage), one counter service meal (Disney speak for fast food), and one snack. These credits can be used at most dining location and, for snacks, at most carts throughout the parks and the entire Walt Disney World resort (including restaurants in hotels, Downtown Disney, and the water parks).

5. Tickets

Tickets for the Disney theme parks can be expensive. A one day, one park ticket can cost around $75 dollars. There are ways to save money, often substantial savings, if you know where to look.

If you are member of, or a family member of someone in the US Military, there are discounts available on base or at Walt Disney World (often, members of the US Military get in for free).
AAA Members can get discounts at the gate or in advance through your local AAA office. Often times, depending on the number of days you’re staying, it’s worthwhile to join AAA just to get the savings on Disney tickets.
There are also great savings for Florida residents; however, proof of Florida residency is required. Check out http://www.disneyworld.com/ for the latest specials.

6. Save on the Mouse Ears, Too!

You can’t walk two feet in one of the Disney parks without encountering some sort of trinket for sale. While it may be tempting to buy stuff in the parks, there are alternatives. If you are going off property, you’ll be encountered with hundreds of souvenir stores offering similar merchandise at much less (think 5 Mickey tee shirts for $10). Alternately, Disney actually runs several discount stores with Walt Disney World merchandise (often overstock or discontinued) at several factory outlet shopping centers in the Orlando area.

7. Nothing Beats Free!

While the above mentioned tips can help you save some money, nothing beats something for nothing. Here are a few free things to do at Walt Disney World:

Ride in the front of the monorail – Just ask when you enter the monorail station and you’ll get to sit up-front with the monorail pilot. You’ll even get your own “co-pilot” certificate.
Watch a Disney animated movie at Fort Wilderness. Each night, there’s a sing-along, marshmallow roast, and a free Disney animated movie shown on a large outdoor screen.
Hop aboard a “friendship” and cruise around Crescent Lake, which makes stops at Epcot, The Boardwalk, The Yacht & Beach Club, The Swan & Dolphin, and Disney's Hollywood Studios. You can get off at each stop, or stay on the boat.