When it comes to visiting Walt Disney World, we all know it isn’t cheap. Between the park tickets, hotel, food, and merchandise, you’re likely spending well over $1000! Not to mention the cost of parking if you drive or the cost of the flight if you fly!

That’s why I like to find ways wherever I can to save money!

Here is a list of 5 things I like to do to help me save money.

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1.Book using a travel agent.

It costs nothing to you but helps you tremendously! They are able to find the absolute best deals and discounts and apply them to your vacation. They can help you book all your dining reservations, get your tickets for you, deal with any booking issues, and basically take care of literally anything and everything you can think of. They are absolute saints 😇 My aunt Terrie is a travel agent and I would love to get you connected with her if you’re looking into booking a vacation!

2. Book during a time when discounts are available.

Disney will release discounts on hotel rooms throughout the year. Take advantage of those! You might find that staying at a moderate resort with the holiday discount is cheaper than paying regular price for a value resort! Certain members can occasionally get good discounts (passholders, DVC members), and people in the military can sometimes find good deals as well. And do you know who can help you make sure you’re taking full advantage of those deals and discounts? A travel agent ☺

3. Use Disney gift cards purchased from Target to pay for the trip.

If you have a Target RedCard, you can save 5% on your purchases! YES! 5%! And this includes gift cards purchases! You can buy a $200 Disney gift card for $190. As much as Disney costs, that REALLY adds up to some good savings!

4. Pack your own breakfast.

I like really good grab and go type foods. My current go-to is protein shakes. I drink Isagenix shakes, but those are kinda pricy. Here are some other great options as voted on by my friends:

Premade shakes:

Premier Protein Shakes
Evolve Plant-Based Protein Shakes

I also enjoy things like breakfast bars and other small, packaged items. Here are a few of our favorites!

Kind Bars
Made Good Bars

And if we have a little extra time, we love bringing some cereal! We usually get milk once we get there so that we don’t have to worry about travelling with it, but if you live close, bringing your own may be cheaper! (Or just eat it dry- we love doing that, too!)

Kellog’s Cereal variety pack

5. Drive, don’t fly!

Now I know this isn’t possible for everyone. Many of you live oversees or even in places in North America that would require a looooong drive. HOWEVER, if you live close by, chances are you’re going to save hundreds of dollars by driving instead of flying! Our drive from TN to Orlando is about 10 hours, and it kinda sucks, but having extra money to stay in a nicer resort or to spend on food/souvenirs really makes it worth it!

I hope these tips help you save a little money on your next Walt Disney World vacation!

Save this graphic to help you remember these tips when budgeting for you Disney vacation!

If you have any other tips, I’d love to hear them!