10 Expert-approved Ways to Save on a Disney World or Disneyland Vacation

For many, a vacation to Walt Disney World or Disneyland is at the very top of their travel list. And for good reason, with enchanting theme parks, nostalgic characters, and delicious bites, few places on Earth are more magical. But like any big trip, careful planning is needed to keep your budget in check.

We enlisted the help of two experts with decades of Disney experience, Beci Mahnken, CEO of MEI Travel and Mouse Fan Travel, and planDisney panelist Adrianna H., to share foolproof ways to save on your next pixie dust-filled trip.

Here are 10 smart ways to save money on a Disney vacation.

Be strategic about when you go.

In an ever-changing travel landscape, peak seasons are constantly shifting. And at a place like Disneyland or Disney World, it’s imperative to be strategic with the timing of your visit.

“Time of year plays a major role in pricing, with mid-January, late August into September, and some early fall weekdays often offering the best values due to lighter demand,” shares Mahnken. Whenever possible, avoid holidays and major school breaks, she says.

Check for ongoing promotions.

Throughout the year, Disney rolls out new promotions. These vary seasonally and include discounts on hotel stays, theme park tickets, and vacation packages, and they could even feature free dining plans.

“Always start your planning by visiting the special offers page on the official Walt Disney World website or the offers and discounts page on the Disneyland Resort website to see which current ticket or hotel offers are available to you,” explains Adrianna. “You might see seasonal offers or qualify for resident rates, military discounts, or even deals for Disney+ subscribers.” Membership-based warehouse clubs, like Costco, are also known to occasionally sell discounted theme park tickets, she adds.

Plan air travel like a pro.

Air travel is often the largest vacation expense, potentially costing thousands for a family traveling together.

“Airfare pricing is highly dynamic, and flexibility is one of the biggest keys for savings,” shares Mahnken. “Flying midweek, considering early-morning or late-night departures, and being open to nearby airports can lead to better pricing.”

With constant price fluctuation, it’s best to book once the airfare aligns with your budget, rather than waiting to find the lowest price, she adds.

Don’t write off budget-friendly accommodations.

Both Disney World and Disneyland offer resorts at varying price points, from the budget-friendly Disney’s Pop Century at Disney World to the more luxurious Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at Disneyland. But no matter where you choose to stay, all Disney hotels feature a high level of theming, standout amenities, and exclusive perks.

“For a Walt Disney World vacation, consider staying on-site at a value resort hotel,” says Adrianna. Things like free self-parking, theme park transportation, and more can quickly add up to savings.

Pro tip: Disneyland has three on-site hotels, but given its location smack dab in the heart of Anaheim, dozens of hotels from reputable chains are also within walking distance. While you may lose out on some perks, you could save money by staying at a partner hotel.

Budget with gift cards.

Setting strict spending limits may kill the vacation buzz, but it’s a surefire way to keep within budget (while still enjoying a Dole whip or two!).

Planning your souvenir spending before your vacation with Disney gift cards is one way to save, says Adrianna. “This works well for snacks, too! My teenagers are happy when they can use their own gift card to buy popcorn and churros whenever they please.”

Adjust your on-site habits.

“Small on-site habits, like using mobile ordering, bringing refillable water bottles, and taking advantage of included transportation, can add up to meaningful savings over the course of a trip,” shares Beci.

Skip the convenience of costly rideshare services. Instead, opt to use Disney’s complimentary on-site resort transportation (just be sure to buffer in enough time to get to your destination). Guests can visit any quick-service location for complimentary water, and there are water bottle refilling machines found throughout the theme parks and resorts.

Be aware that dining can quickly add up.

There are hundreds of restaurants across Disney parks. And for many, eating is an attraction in and of itself, from dining inside the Beast’s castle at Be Our Guest to a bona fide splurge at the Michelin-starred Victoria & Albert’s.

“It helps to be strategic about dining by deciding in advance where a full-service meal really matters, like that one perfect character meal that creates lifelong magical memories, while using quick-service locations for flexibility and value,” shares Beci. Some character meals, like the famed Chef Mickey’s, can cost upwards of $70 per adult.

Bringing nonperishable snacks is another way to keep food costs down, she adds. Another top tip? Adults should consider ordering off the children’s menu. While it’s off limits at table-service restaurants, it’s fair game at casual dining locations, and the portions are often large enough to satisfy.

Take advantage of free and low-cost activities.

The theme parks are no doubt a highlight of any Disney trip, but there are many activities outside the parks that are free or low-cost. And skipping just one day at the theme parks can save hundreds. Build in a day to play minigolf at Disney World’s Fantasia Gardens, explore the entertainment districts of Disney Springs or Downtown Disney, or simply take a day to enjoy your resort.

“Disney’s resort hotels offer fantastic complimentary recreation activities while outside of the theme parks,” says Adrianna. “Roast marshmallows, watch a movie under the stars, or play games by the pool.” Some resorts also offer crafting, tours, and live entertainment, she adds.

Resort hopping is another favorite pastime, especially the famous monorail crawl at Disney World. While some amenities are reserved for overnight guests, anyone is free to explore the common areas and restaurants. Use Disney’s complimentary transportation instead of your own vehicle. For example, if you want to explore Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, you can go to the Transportation and Ticket Center and take a short monorail ride over.

Consider enlisting the help of a travel agent.

Many are surprised to learn that using a Disney travel agent can cost the vacationer absolutely nothing. “Work with a fee-free, Disney-focused travel advisor who tracks pricing and promotions, as newly released offers can frequently be applied to existing reservations, resulting in immediate savings,” says Beci.

Ask planDisney.

When in doubt, ask the experts directly: planDisney is the official digital resource for expert insight and helpful tips from Disney vacation experts who are on hand to answer questions.