10 Expert Tips on How to Save Big at Disney World in 2023

You’re gearing up for that dream trip to Disney World, and like many, you’re probably wondering how to make the most of every dollar. After all, such magical experiences can come with a hefty price tag. But what if we told you that there’s a way on how to save big at Disney World?

With a sprinkle of savvy and a touch of planning, you can experience the wonder without the wallet woes. Dive into these 10 essential tips, and by the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped with strategies to enjoy all the magic Disney has to offer without breaking the bank. Ready to make your Disney dreams come true?

From choosing the best time to visit to finding hidden discounts, get ready to master the art of saving at the most magical place on earth. Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

• Off-peak seasons such as January and February, and September and October are the best times to visit Disney World, offering lower prices, shorter wait times, and mild weather.
• Consider budget-friendly lodging options that offer comfort and convenience, such as hotels within walking distance to the parks or Disney Springs.
• Take advantage of discounted ticket options, such as the Park Hopper ticket, multi-day tickets, and special discounts for Florida residents.
• Save on food expenses by considering the pros and cons of the dining plan, bringing your own food, and utilizing budget-friendly meal options.

1-What is the Best Time to Visit Disney World in 2023?

The best time for you to visit Disney World is during the off-peak seasons to take advantage of lower prices and shorter wait times.

Disney World experiences peak seasons during holidays and school breaks when the crowds are at their highest, making it more challenging to fully enjoy the park. To make the most of your visit, I would recommended to check the crowd calendars and plan your trip accordingly.

During these months, you can expect shorter wait times for popular attractions, easier access to dining reservations, and discounted prices on accommodations and park tickets. Additionally, the weather during these times is usually mild, making it more comfortable to explore the park.

By planning your visit during the off-peak seasons, you can avoid the large crowds and have a more relaxed experience. Generally, the best times to visit are in January and February, right after the holiday season, and in September and October, when most schools are back in session.

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Disney World for Smaller Crowds in 2023

2-How to Choose the Right Disney Accommodation in 2023

When it comes to choosing the right accommodation for your Disney World vacation, there are a few key points to consider.

First, look for budget-friendly lodging options that can help you save money without sacrificing comfort.

Additionally, consider the location and convenience of the accommodation, as being close to the parks can save you time and transportation costs.

Budget-Friendly Lodging Options

Looking for a budget-friendly lodging option at Disney World? When it comes to choosing the right accommodation for your trip, there are a few options that always help me save big.

One option is to stay at a value resort within the Disney World property. These resorts may not offer all the bells and whistles of the more expensive options, but they still provide comfortable rooms and access to Disney transportation.

Another budget-friendly option is to consider off-site hotels or vacation rentals. These accommodations are generally cheaper than staying on Disney property and often offer additional amenities like kitchenettes or multiple bedrooms.

Lastly, if you’re looking to save even more, consider camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. This option allows you to enjoy the Disney experience while immersing yourself in nature.

Location and Convenience

To maximize your convenience and make the most of your Disney World experience, consider choosing an accommodation with a prime location. Staying close to the parks not only saves you valuable time but also allows you to take advantage of the transportation options available. Disney resorts offer complimentary transportation to all the parks, making it easy for you to hop on a bus, boat, or monorail and be at your destination in no time.

Additionally, choosing a hotel within walking distance to Disney Springs can be a major convenience. Disney Springs is a vibrant entertainment and shopping district with a plethora of dining options, live entertainment, and unique shops. Being able to walk to this area means you can enjoy the nightlife without worrying about transportation or parking.

3-How Discounted Ticket Options can save you big in 2023

One of the best ways to save big at Disney World is by taking advantage of the park’s discounted ticket options. Disney World offers several different types of discounted tickets that can help you save money while still enjoying all the magic the park has to offer.

One option to consider is the Park Hopper ticket. This ticket allows you to visit multiple parks in one day, giving you the flexibility to explore all that Disney World has to offer. By purchasing a Park Hopper ticket, you can save money compared to buying separate tickets for each park.

Another discounted ticket option is the multi-day ticket. Disney World offers tickets for multiple days, such as three or four-day tickets. These tickets are cheaper per day compared to single-day tickets, allowing you to save money if you plan on spending more than one day at the park.

If you’re a Florida resident, there are also special discounted tickets available. These tickets are only available to residents of Florida and often come with additional perks, such as discounted dining or merchandise.

Lastly, consider purchasing tickets in advance. Disney World sometimes offers early bird discounts on tickets, so by planning ahead and purchasing your tickets before your trip, you can save even more money.

Also Read: How Much Are Disney Park Tickets?

4-Dining Plan or Bring Your Own Food

When it comes to dining at Disney World, you have two main options to consider: the dining plan or bringing your own food.

Each option has its pros and cons.

The dining plan offers convenience and a pre-paid meal package, but it can be expensive and may not suit everyone’s dietary preferences.

On the other hand, bringing your own food allows you to save money and have more control over what you eat, but it requires planning, packing, and potentially sacrificing some dining experiences.

Budget-Friendly Meal Options

Save money on meals at Disney World by considering budget-friendly options such as utilizing the Disney dining plans or bringing your own food.

The dining plan is a convenient way to prepay for your meals and snacks, allowing you to save money compared to purchasing each item individually. It offers a variety of plans to choose from, including options for quick-service or table-service meals.

Bringing your own food is another cost-effective option. You can pack sandwiches, snacks, and nonalcoholic beverages or drinks to enjoy throughout the day. It always help me in saving money because I don’t have to buy expensive meals inside the park. Additionally, Disney World allows guests to bring in outside food, as long as it doesn’t require heating or refrigeration.

Disney Dining or Bring Your Own Food in 2023? Pros and Cons

To decide between the dining plan and bringing your own food, consider the pros and cons of each option at Disney World.

The dining plan offers convenience and a variety of dining options. With the plan, you can prepay for your meals and snacks, which can make budgeting easier. It also allows you to experience the different restaurants and cuisines that Disney World has to offer. However, it can be quite expensive, especially if you don’t plan on eating a lot or if you have picky eaters in your group.

On the other hand, bringing your own food can save you a significant amount of money. You can pack sandwiches, snacks, and non alcoholic drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day. However, keep in mind that Disney has restrictions on coolers and some outside food items, so make sure to check their policies beforehand.

“Guests are allowed to bring outside food and nonalcoholic beverage items into the park for self-consumption, provided they are not in glass containers and do not require heating, reheating, processing, refrigeration or temperature control and do not have pungent odors.”

Disney Policy about Outside Food

Ultimately, the decision between the dining plan and bringing your own food depends on your budget, dietary preferences, convenience needs and for how long you’ll be staying there.

5-How i Save on Disney Transportation Costs

Maximize your savings by utilizing Disney’s complimentary transportation services. Disney World offers a variety of transportation options that can help you save on transportation costs during your visit. Here are three ways I use mostly to make the most of these services:

• Disney Transportation: Disney offers a comprehensive transportation system, including buses, monorails, and boats, that can take you to and from the theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. These services are free for all guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel.
• Parking Strategies: If you do decide to bring your own car, there are ways to save on parking fees. Consider parking at one of the theme parks and using Disney transportation to get around. This way, you only pay for parking once and can avoid paying for parking at each individual park.

6-take advantage of Disney FastPass+ System

One essential tip for saving big at Disney World is to take full advantage of the FastPass+ system. This system allows you to reserve access to select attractions, entertainment, and character meet and greets in advance, so you can skip the long lines and make the most of your time in the parks.

Here are three key ways how I usually utilize the Disney FastPass+ system effectively in 2023:

1-Always Plan Ahead:
You know, when I was planning my trip to Disney World, one of the smartest moves I made was to really dig deep into researching attractions that offered FastPass+ reservations. I remember sitting down with a cup of coffee and jotting down all the rides and experiences I absolutely didn’t want to miss. Trust me, having that priority list was a lifesaver.

2-Always Prefer Your Most favorite Attractions in Disney First
Now, here’s a little insider tip I picked up: You get to make up to three FastPass+ selections per day in one park. So, I zeroed in on those super-popular attractions that almost always have those crazy long wait times. Oh, and a cool thing I found out? After you’ve breezed through those initial three attractions, you can grab more FastPass+ reservations. Just one at a time, and based on what’s available – but it’s a game-changer.

3-Be flexible with your schedule:
Flexibility, my friend, is the name of the game. Those FastPass+ slots come with specific times, and while it might be tempting to stick rigidly to your original plan, I found that being a bit flexible with my schedule opened up so many more possibilities. Sometimes, shifting lunch an hour later meant getting a FastPass for that roller coaster I was dying to ride. Totally worth it.

Also Read: The 101 FastPass+ Guide for Disney World Attractions in 2023

7-Let’s save some money by Taking Advantage of Extra Magic Hours

To make the most of your time at Disney World and save even more, always take advantage of the Extra Magic Hours available to guests staying at select Disney Resort hotels. Extra Magic Hours allow guests to enjoy the parks before they open to the general public or after they close. This gives you the opportunity to experience popular attractions with shorter wait times and fewer crowds.

Each day, one of the parks will either open early or stay open late exclusively for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels. The schedule for Extra Magic Hours is available on the Disney World website or through the My Disney Experience app. It’s important to plan your visit accordingly and arrive early to maximize your time.

During Extra Magic Hours, you can enjoy popular attractions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain, and Avatar Flight of Passage without the long lines. It’s a great way to make the most of your trip, especially if you’re a fan of thrill rides or want to experience the newest attractions.

8-Who doesn’t like Free Entertainment and Activities in Disney World

Looking for some free entertainment and activities at Disney World? You’re in luck! Let’s explore some hidden park gems, where you can find unique experiences without breaking the bank.

Plus, we’ll show you budget-friendly ways to meet your favorite characters and even give you some DIY souvenir alternatives.

Get ready to have a magical time without spending a fortune!

Hidden Park Gems

Discover the hidden gems of free entertainment and activities at Disney World. While the popular attractions and shows are a must-see, there are also lesser-known experiences that can add a touch of magic to your visit.

Here are three hidden park gems that you won’t want to miss:

• The Epcot World Showcase: Take a leisurely stroll around the World Showcase and immerse yourself in the culture of 11 different countries. Enjoy live performances, interactive exhibits, and delicious cuisine.
• Tom Sawyer Island: Escape the crowds and venture to this secluded island in Magic Kingdom. Explore caves, cross suspension bridges, and discover hidden treasures.
• Wilderness Explorers: Join Russell from the movie ‘Up’ and become a Wilderness Explorer at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Complete challenges, earn badges, and learn about wildlife conservation.

These hidden park gems offer unique and memorable experiences that won’t cost you a dime. So be sure to add them to your Disney World itinerary and make the most of your visit.

Budget-Friendly Character Experiences

Save money on character experiences at Disney World by taking advantage of budget-friendly options for free entertainment and activities. While meeting characters like Mickey Mouse and Cinderella can be a highlight of your trip, it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Look for character parades and shows throughout the parks, where you can see multiple characters without the need for a meet and greet. Additionally, keep an eye out for surprise character appearances in random locations throughout the day. These impromptu interactions can be a great way to meet characters without the long lines.

Take advantage of character dining experiences at quick-service restaurants, where you can enjoy a meal while characters come around to greet guests. By being strategic and taking advantage of these budget-friendly options, you can still have magical character experiences without spending a fortune.

DIY Souvenir Alternatives

To continue enjoying budget-friendly options at Disney World, consider incorporating DIY souvenir alternatives into your day, providing both free entertainment and activities. Instead of spending money on expensive souvenirs, try these creative alternatives:

1. Create your own autograph book: Instead of buying a pre-made autograph book, bring a small notebook or sketchbook and decorate it with Disney-themed stickers or drawings. This way, you can collect autographs from your favorite characters without spending extra money.
2. Make personalized Disney t-shirts: Bring plain t-shirts and fabric markers to the park. Throughout the day, have characters sign your shirt, or use the markers to create your own unique designs. This won’t only save money, but also give you a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
3. Take your own photos: Instead of purchasing professional photos from the park, bring your own camera or smartphone and capture your own memories. Disney World offers many iconic photo spots, so take advantage of them and create your own memorable shots.

9- What I Always Pack for Disney World: Savings and Comfort Tips

One essential item to pack for cost savings at Disney World is a refillable water bottle. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the Florida heat, and purchasing beverages throughout the day can quickly add up. By bringing your own refillable water bottle, you can save money and stay refreshed. Disney World provides water fountains and water bottle refill stations throughout the parks, allowing you to easily fill up your bottle whenever needed.

In addition to a refillable water bottle, it’s also wise to pack some snacks. Disney World allows you to bring in outside food and non-alcoholic beverages, so take advantage of this policy to save on meals and snacks. Packing granola bars, fruit, or other portable snacks can help curb hunger throughout the day and prevent you from spending extra money on expensive park food.

Another essential item to pack is a poncho or raincoat. Florida weather can be unpredictable, and sudden rain showers aren’t uncommon. Purchasing Disney-branded ponchos at the park can be quite expensive, so it’s more cost-effective to bring your own. A small, lightweight poncho can easily fit in your bag and save you money during those unexpected downpours.

10-My Insider Tips for Finding Hidden Discounts

To uncover hidden discounts at Disney World, you need to be resourceful and take advantage of insider tips. Planning a trip to Disney World can be an expensive endeavor, but with a little bit of know-how, you can find ways to save big on your vacation. Here are some insider tips to help you find hidden discounts:

1. Sign up for newsletters and follow Disney World on social media: Disney often releases exclusive discounts and promotions to their email subscribers and social media followers. By staying connected, you can be the first to know about any upcoming deals or special offers.
2. Consider visiting during the off-peak season: Disney World tends to be less crowded during certain times of the year, which means lower prices on tickets and accommodations. By planning your trip during the off-peak season, you can save money and enjoy shorter lines for attractions.
3. Look for package deals: Disney World offers various package deals that include accommodations, park tickets, and dining plans. These packages can often save you money compared to booking everything separately. Be sure to compare different options and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions