How Families Can Save Money at Disney World Resorts

1 Book your hotel as far in advance as you can.

You've probably heard this tip already, but that's because it's so true! If you're booking just a month or two out, you're likely to have fewer choices and the price tags will be shot up.

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2 Check the prices on all types of rooms.

Image Source: Flickr user Jared

Getting one large suite isn't necessarily better than multiple smaller rooms. At Disney's Contemporary Resort, for example, getting two deluxe rooms that sleep up to four each is still cheaper than a two-bedroom suite that sleeps up to eight. But that might not be the case every season or at every hotel.

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3 Use a Disney travel agent.

Image Source: Flickr user trvlto

Believe it or not, Disney-specific travel agents are at no cost to you. Let one take the stress out of planning and finding those special room discounts you didn't know existed!

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4 Mention it if you're celebrating a special occasion.

Image Source: Flickr user jenn

Birthday? Anniversary? Just got engaged? Guests have said that mentioning that they are celebrating something at the time of their booking led to wonderful surprises! You never know what kind of souvenirs might be in your room when you arrive.

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5 Make the off-seasons your first choices.

Image Source: Flickr user Vincent Lock

Although going to Disney during the holiday season is the ultimate magical experience, you can expect everyone else to be thinking the same thing. The park is basically always busy, but try to steer clear of the holidays, as well as Summer, Spring break, and other on-season times. The more people wanting to go, the higher the prices are going to be. Pssst: this short time window is your best bet!

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6 Sign up for discount sites.

Image Source: Flickr user Bob B. Brown

This is where you can find discounted rooms and upgrades. You'll be surprised what kind of steal you can get during the off-season! Start with MouseSavers and let the deals begin!

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7 Create your own welcome package.

Image Source: Flickr user Rusty Clark

Although the kids will certainly love entering their hotel room to find a welcome package, they cost hundreds of dollars. Bring along some new Disney trinkets you picked up back home and surprise your family when you get there.

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8 Skip breakfast at the hotel.

Image Source: Flickr user danuv

Opting for a breakfast buffet with tons of Mickey waffles is tempting, but you'll save so much money by just eating in your room. Use Amazon to ship cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, fruit, and other breakfast items to your room before you even get to your hotel.

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9 Don't blindly book a vacation package.

Image Source: Flickr user DebMomOf3

It can feel like you're getting a deal (and avoiding a whole lot of stress) by just booking a package through Disney. However, you may be able to create your own hotel, food, and park ticket package for cheaper. Do your homework!

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10 Take advantage of the free activities.

Image Source: Flickr user Tom Bricker

Many resorts have fun, complimentary activities like movies under the stars, roasting marshmallows, yoga on the lawn, and more. And, of course, there are always the famous nightly fireworks over Cinderella's Castle!

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