According to Walt Disney World’s website, there’s no such thing as Disney for free. Instead, going to Disney World on select dates for 6-nights, 7-days ranges from $2,390 to $3,29 for a family of 4 staying at Disney’s All-Star Resorts. That may not sound too steep when considering the prices are packaged for accommodations and tickets, but it doesn’t include food or airfare.
In my opinion, a Disney vacation is totally worth the cost when you consider the volume of rides, shows, entertainment and character meet-and-greets at the parks that create lifelong memories for your kids. The Disney property is also detail-oriented and customer-focused from the bus drivers carrying themed stickers for the kids, to gate attendants helping out when our daughter forgot her magic band at the room.
But being “worth it” doesn’t mean you can’t score deep Disney discounts, and even go for free. Of course, there is a trade-off. You need to start planning out your trip months, or even a year in advance, to get the best deals and discounts. Here’s how to get started.
Stay at Luxury Resorts at Disney for Free
Credit card rewards can take time to bank, but it really isn’t that difficult to do. For example, the American Express Marriott Bonvoy card can put your family in the driver’s seat to earning points to stay at the Disney Swan or Disney Dolphin hotel. These luxury Disney hotels are a short walk to Epcot with free shuttles to the Magic Kingdom and other Disney properties.
Marriott Bonvoy typically offers bonus points (usually around 50,000) for signing-up and making your first purchase. But to really maximize your points, don’t add an authorized user to your card. Instead, open a separate card for your spouse or grandparent so they can get their own bonus points for that first purchase.
Many hotels also offer a fifth night free when booking, so you may not need as many points as you think. You’e probably looking at roughly 40,000 to 60,000 points for a one-week vacation. Check out Disney’s own Premier Visa Card. Keep an eye on offers from all credit card providers for bonus points on approved categories and purchases to give your cards more Disney travel power.
Apply for Your Favorite Airline’s Reward Credit Card
You can also use Marriott Bonvoy cards for airline miles, but you’re better offer allocating those points to your Disney stay instead. Instead, look for credit cards, like Citibank’s AAdvantage offer which can earn 50,000 American Airline AAdvantage bonus points. You usually only need 25,000 to 35,000 for a domestic ticket, and just about every airline offers a credit card with big bonus miles that can earn a free ticket.
Southwest Airlines and Alaska Air also tout credit cards with many perks related to Walt Disney World and Disneyland travel.
Get Cash Back Rewards to Pay for a Disney for Free Vacation
Cash back rewards on credit cards are usually only about 2%, but can add up and pay for the hotel’s resort fees and food. Of course, you need to consider any annual fees with your card. But for a free option – the Discover It Chrome card offers 2% cash back on gas and restaurant spending (up to $1,000 each quarter) and no annual fee.
Did I mention Military and First Responder discounts? Make your own savings bank of “cash back” rewards by putting aside all the discounts you’re offered if your job qualifies you for them as you purchase or travel.
Take Advantage of Freebies & Discounts
When you book your Disney vacation, ask in advance if there’s currently a free meal plan promotion, or how you can save on upgrading. Depending on the resort you book, Quick Service Dining plans (and even Regular Dining Plans) are often available for free. Depending on the resort you book, you could end up upgrading to a dining plan for under $20 for an adult and less than $5 for a child per night.
Additionally, there are many special offers and discounts for season pass holders. You may save big by buying a season pass even if you don’t plan to go for more than one Disney holiday this year.
There’s plenty to do around Disney that’s totally free and inexpensive. Take a walk at Disney’s Boardwalk and keep an eye out for entertainers in the evening. If you can keep the kids from splurging at the shops, explore Disney Springs and head to the outdoor Lego Imagination Center.
Get Creative when you think Disney for Free
What’s going on at your house while you’re at Disney? If you live in a city or popular tourist area, consider renting it out on Airbnb to put some money in your pocket for your Disney vacation. Get the kids brainstorming about how to earn and save up for souvenirs and special gifts by organizing a neighborhood carwash, babysitting and tutoring.
What are your favorite ways to save at Disney? Let us know in the comments below.
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