Walt Disney World Deals

How to save money when vacationing by getting Walt Disney World Deals in Florida

Plan head

If you want to save money, you need to plan well in advance.  You can't just schedule your vacation and then take off on the appointed day.  You need to research, plan, and book well in advance using the tips on this page.  This may take some time, but you will save money and have a better vacation experience.

Compare travel costs

With the ups and downs (and ups!) of gas prices, it pays to carefully compare the cost of flying vs. driving.  It may make sense to drive instead of flying. 

Here is a simple way to calculate the cost to drive.  Go to http://maps.google.com/.  Enter your "City, State to Disney World, Orlando, FL".  For example, enter "Columbus, Ohio to Disney World, Orlando, FL".  Google maps will tell you that it is 1,004 miles.  If your car gets 25 miles per gallon, and gas is $2.50 per gallon, your cost to drive would be:
1,004 miles / 25 miles/gallon = 40.16 gallons
40.16 gallons X $2.50 / gallon = $100.40
So your round trip cost is about $200 to drive.  For a family of four, that is probably much cheaper than flying.

Remember to include other expenses like:
- Overnight hotel stays if driving (usually $100 - $150 per night)
- Extra food cost if driving
- Road tools
- Use of your car vs. renting a care in
Take a few minutes to compare the cost of driving vs. flying.  If you decide to fly, be sure to book at least 21 days in advance, and preferable 3-6 months in advance to get the best rate.

Compare food cost

Eating at the Disney World resort can be fun - they have some great restaurants with interesting themes.  But it can also be expensive.  Fortunately, you can get good Walt Disney World Deals on food.  Generally, quick service (the nice term for fast food) costs about twice as much at Disney compared to what you might pay off-site. 

To save money consider eating a big breakfast before going to Disney for the day.  Take a break from the crowds and go to a nearby restaurant not operated by Disney, or consider purchasing food at a local grocery store. 

Compare hotel costs

Just as eating at the Disney World resort can be fun, staying at a Disney-owned hotel can be fun too.  They have great themes, and some extra perks like extra hours in the parks and free transportation to and around Disney property (See this article about Disney's Magical Express).  But all this comes at a cost.  There are many nice and reasonably priced hotels near Disney World in the Kissimmee area.  You can find Walt Disney World deals on the internet and it tourist books on the rest stops on Florida highways.

Compare ticket costs

There aren't many ways to get a terrific deal on tickets, but you can sale a little.  Plan and buy in advance so that you can make an informed choice.  Plus you won't have to wait in line at the theme park ticket counter.  There is plenty to learn about Disney tickets. Read this article about Disney Ticket Options.  And read this article titled "Do cheap Disney World tickets really exist?"

Remember, by planning ahead and comparing costs you can not only have a more relxed trip but you can also save a bundle!