First and foremost, if you are going to Disney, there are many in the Orlando area that have low rates. But, it's best stay on Disney property. The convenience you get for the extra few bucks you pay (and actually if you book a package, you end up saving money) is well worth it. There are many options for you to choose from when staying at Disney ranging from very basic (Value Resorts), to top of the line (Deluxe Resorts), with everything in between, including villas and campgrounds.
No matter where you stay, you have access to the Disney Transportation Network and the extended park hours--which are excellent because you get to stay in the park for an extra hour while most of the guests need to vacate.
If you aren't driving to Disneyworld, make a reservation with the Disney Magic Express service, which is completely free. They will pick you up at Orlando International Airport and drive you straight to your hotel. The best part is that you don't even need to wait at baggage claim. They'll get your stuff for you, and it will appear inside your hotel room a few hours later. I have personally taken this before and can say how quick and easy it is. You won't even need a car, because Disney provides transportation to anywhere on their property, and they'll even take you back to the airport, or you can rent a car on property (if going somewhere other than Orlando International Airport) when you leave.
The only thing is that you must book it before you travel so they can enter you into the system.
Most people don't consider booking their dining beforehand, but by doing a dining plan through Disney, you will save time and money. By booking a dining plan, you are essentially prepaying for three meals each day at the parks that can be used at any restaurant on property (except certain non-Disney owned restaurants in Downtown Disney). It even allows for a snack, which will satisfy that urge for the Mickey Ice Cream Bar you've been craving.
Also with dining, certain restaurants may need a reservation. Most in the parks can be booked that morning when you arrive, but if you want a Character Dining, or a Dinner Show, you may want to book those in advance as they tend to fill up rather quickly. Disney offers three really good dinner shows: Hoop-De-Do Review, Polynesian Luau and Mickey's Backyard Barbecue. They generally start taking reservations for dining 3 months in advance.
From experience, if you want to eat breakfast or dinner at Cinderella's Royal Table in the Magic Kingdom with the Disney Princesses, you better call on that first day they are taking reservations.
