All of Disney’s “magic” does come at a price and with the recent park ticket price hike to Disney World, going on a 6-day vacation can become super price (est. price for a family of 4 is about $5000-6500). Pricing can vary based on the time of year and depend on the type of tickets purchased, travel method selected, resort, and the selection of a dining package (or not).

As a typical bargain-shopper, I wanted to see if there were ways to save a little cash or at least get a better value out of my vacation. After many trips, I have compiled a couple of my best money-saving tips and hacks to make your Disney stay not only magical but worth it as well!

How to Save Money at Disney World

Disney is EXPEN$$$IVE! There is no denying that, however, there are ways to get the most out of your money. Below are the money-saving tips I used when planning our trips to Disney.

#1: Eat Breakfast and Lunch

There are a couple of character meals where if you arrive for a later breakfast you can stay and enjoy an early lunch. You can enjoy breakfast and lunch offerings at:

• Tusker House at the Animal Kingdom
• Akershus at Epcot’s Norway Pavillon

#2: Become an Annual Passholder

If you visit Disney World every summer or go more than twice a year, I would consider purchasing an annual pass. Depending on how long your stay is, you could be saving a lot of cash. You’ll get the added benefits of discounts on merchandise and food as well as Photopass for free, park-hopper benefits, and receive Disney perks, (e.g., previews to new lands, Galaxy’s Edge, special events).

Since we typically go every summer, we renew our annual pass every other year. Having the annual pass has saved us so much money compared to purchasing the tickets separately.

#3: Rent DVC Points

If you like to stay at the deluxe resorts, like the Grand Floridian, the Polynesian, etc.. renting DVC points through an authorized site can save you a few hundred dollars per night, depending on when you schedule your trip (e.g., Thanksgiving, Winter break, and Spring break will be the most expensive times).

We have rented points in the past and have been able to stay at the Beach Club (hotel review link: http://havingamagicalday.com/thanks-beach-club-resort/) as well as the Wilderness Lodge (review to come!).

#4: Book through Costco Travel

If you are a Costco member, you’ll not only get the cash benefits by using your Costco credit card, but the typical Disney packages also include a gift card on top of the credit card cashback.

We booked our Disney Cruise through Costco and received a $450 gift card after we got back from our trip.

#5: Purchase Disney Gifts Cards

Sam Club typically sell Disney gift cards at a discounted cost, and if you purchase a Disney gift card using your Redcard at Target, you receive a 5% discount. You can use these to pay for anything at Disney, (e.g., your hotel stay, food, dining, tickets, merch, etc.).

#6: Get a Popcorn Bucket

One of the cheapest and kid-approved snacks at Disney World is popcorn. I suggest purchasing the $10 bucket at the beginning of the trip. Each refill is $2, and you can use it at any of the parks. Best of all you now have a souvenir your kids will love!

Do you have a great money-saving tip? If so, I would love to hear it OR if you use any of many of mine, comment down below. With that, I hope you have a magical day!