How to Visit Disney for Cheap

A Disney vacation tops many families' vacation wish list. You may save for years for a visit to the Magic Kingdom, and you want to get the most from your hard-earned dollars. Disney offers many opportunities for the budget-conscious visitor, including a variety of park passes to fit your specific needs. Make a plan before you ever leave home in order to track down the best deals. Planning ahead ensures you get the most for your money and have an enjoyable stay.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Plan your trip in the off-season if possible. Book your vacation between late August and February to take advantage of the greatest savings on hotels.

Step 2

Research package deals for hotels and airfare. Contact travel agencies and check with online airfare providers for special packages. Verify that the package price really is cheaper than purchasing tickets and hotels separately before buying.

Step 3

Stay at non-Disney hotels instead of the resorts. Look for hotels with amenities such as free breakfasts and park shuttles when searching for a good deal. Or, stay at a campground if you own an RV or camper.

Step 4

Purchase your park passes from a travel agent or online vendor instead of at the park. Purchase base tickets if you will be visiting one of each of the four parks per day, or choose Park Hopper tickets if you will be going between the parks on the same day.

Step 5

Bring your own picnic lunch to the park or plan to return to your room for meals. Keep snacks and refillable water bottles in your day bag to save money by avoiding the expensive park food.

Step 6

Check with AAA or any other travel group you are a member of for any special deals being offered to members. Consider joining AAA if the Disney deals will save you more money than the AAA membership will cost.

Tips & Warnings

If staying at a Disney resort, purchase a meal package for the greatest savings on food. Disney resorts also offer free dining packages during the fall off-peak season. Purchase Disney-themed items before you leave and give them to your kids at the park when they start begging for souvenirs. Stay in a hotel that offers basic in-room kitchen services such as a mini-fridge and microwave to save money over eating out each evening.

If staying at a Disney resort, purchase a meal package for the greatest savings on food. Disney resorts also offer free dining packages during the fall off-peak season.

Purchase Disney-themed items before you leave and give them to your kids at the park when they start begging for souvenirs.

Stay in a hotel that offers basic in-room kitchen services such as a mini-fridge and microwave to save money over eating out each evening.

Disney World consists of four main parks plus a waterpark. Avoid trying to see it all in the first few days of your vacation and then becoming too tired to enjoy the rest of your stay.

Resources

AAA club membership page

Article Written By Jenny Harrington

Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.

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