Wanderlust World Wanderlust World This is no doubt one of the biggest expenses of any trip. Disney World has four Value resorts that offer all of the perks of staying on Disney property without the hefty investment. Rates at these hotels start at just $82 per night, including free airport transfers and park shuttles, meaning you save money by not renting a car. Disney runs several lodging promotions every year, some of which will save you up to 40 percent.
One of the best deals Disney offers is Free Dining with your vacation package, typically offered sometime in the fall.
If you can't take advantage of Free Dining, you can still eat in the parks, maximizing every moment of your vacation, without spending a lot. Many restaurants offer huge meals that can serve two or more people. For example, Cosmic Ray's at the Magic Kingdom has a half chicken and rib meal that is served with two sides for $13.99. It is easily enough food to feed three people. The same restaurant also has an eight-nugget meal for $7.69 that can be shared between two.
If you are really on a tight budget, order a double cheeseburger and fries for about $8 at various Disney cafes. Order an additional bun for less than $1, put one patty on the new bun and serve two adults for little more than a kid's meal.
You can also carry small snacks and travel mugs into the parks. Refreshment kiosks will give you free ice or hot water. Depending on the season, add flavor packets or hot chocolate for a nearly free beverage.
Everyone wants a souvenir when they go on vacation. Plan ahead and buy Disney-themed shirts from local stores or the online Disney outlet. You can usually find shirts for around $4 each. Pack them in your luggage and present them to your family once you arrive at Disney. Do the same thing with other souvenirs--many discount stores carry Disney merchandise that is no different from the items sold in the parks.
Pressed pennies, which you can get at machines located in every park and resort, are fun to collect and about as cheap as you can get at 51 cents.
Pin trading is an expensive hobby at Disney, but you can purchase pins from eBay before your trip. Once at Disney, you can trade with any cast member for new pins.
Tickets are rarely discounted, though you might finds small discounts through AAA or your employer. Otherwise, buying 10-day, no-expiration tickets might be a good bet. The initial cost is higher, but you can use the tickets over two or three trips, making them quite a deal.