Getting the Best Deal on a Disney Vacation

One of the largest expenses you’ll encounter on your Disney vacation is your accommodations. Where you stay has the biggest impact on your trip budget, so choosing the right location will help you plan a trip that is both affordable and fun. Thanks to the wide array of resort and hotel choices on Disney property, you can find a room that serves your needs without overwhelming your budget. Having an idea of the available properties and what they have to offer will help you navigate your way through the process and get the best possible deal for your vacation.

Perks:

All on-site Disney resorts offer free transportation, via bus, boat or monorail (some offer all three). As a guest staying on Disney property you will also be able to attend daily Extra Magic Hours in one of the theme parks; having some “guests only” time in one of the parks each day is a huge perk if you are visiting during a busy season. You may also be able to save on your theme park tickets when you stay onsite—look into the cost of packages versus the cost of buying your room and tickets individually. Depending on the package promotions being offered and the time of year, you may find a large difference in your trip cost if you purchase a package deal.

Buy only what you need:

Since all Disney resorts have the same basic benefits, you don’t have to spend more for free park transportation or Extra Magic Hours. Spend money on the things that are most important to you.  If you want to park your car (or use the free Magical Express bus), and not use it again during your trip, then a monorail resort may be a must for you – but it will add to your budget. If you don’t mind driving, you can save plenty of cash by choosing a more remote resort; you’ll need to drive your own car, but you could save hundreds per night on your room.

Stay at an older resort:

Aside from the Deluxe monorail resorts, which are always popular, some of Disney’s older resorts may not be as popular as their newer counterparts, and can be had at a discount. “Old” doesn’t mean poorly maintained; all of the resorts are in good condition. If you are willing to try one of the original Disney Vacation Club locations like Old Key West or Saratoga Springs, you can usually get a prime room with plenty of perks at a substantial discount. There is nothing wrong with these properties, they are simply not as popular as resorts like the Wilderness Lodge and the Port Orleans…take advantage of this factor and save.

Time your trip:

A single resort can fluctuate in price by hundreds of dollars a night, depending on when you visit. Once you pick a resort, time your trip well for the best savings. Consider planning a fall or winter trip (avoid the holidays) to take advantage of Disney’s Value Season – all of the resorts will be on sale during this time period. The days you visit matter as well; you’ll save about $20 per night by visiting during the week instead of on the weekend. Have your calendar handy when you book and double check the nightly rates for your chosen resort to pick up additional savings.