5 Uncommon Ways to Save Money on Your Orlando Vacation

When you're planning an Orlando vacation on a budget, there are several things you can do to pare down the cost of hotel and resort accommodations, flights and even save money on attractions. Many people planning a vacation in Orlando turn to third-party travel sites for travel packages and last minute deals, and some hotels and resorts offer some deep discounts during the off-peak season. There are also a number of not-so-obvious ways to save money on your trip to Orlando.

Here are just five uncommon ways to save money on your Orlando vacation and make the most of your trip:

#1: Purchase annual passes to the theme parks. If you're planning an extended stay vacation in Orlando, consider buying an annual pass instead of a multi-day park hopper ticket or two-day ticket to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Passholders do get a lot of extra privileges than regular ticket holders, and you have the added benefit of getting free parking and discounts on food. If you plan on visiting the theme parks for four or more days within the year, an annual pass will save you hundreds on theme park admission tickets.

#2: Stay at a hotel that offers free shuttle service. Many hotels and resorts in Orlando offer complimentary shuttle service to and from Orlando International Airport, the theme parks, and other area attractions. Book your stay at one of these hotels or resorts so that you can save on the cost of a taxi or car rental. If you're staying at one of the Disney hotels or resorts, you can count on free bus service to all of the theme parks on Walt Disney World property.

#3: Take advantage of savings in the Entertainment Book. You'll be surprised how many popular restaurants, cafes, attractions and theaters offer savings in the Orlando Entertainment Book. You can get discounts on shopping, dining and attractions with the clippable coupons, and also download and print coupons from your computer. These books can be purchased online for $35, and you can save hundreds on dining, entertainment and travel when planning your Orlando vacation.

#4: Eat at a buffet dining establishment once per day. Save on dining by eating your fair share of breakfast, lunch or dinner favorites at an all-you-can-eat dining destination. You'll find dozens of thse restaurants scattered around the resorts and theme parks, and you can fill up on healthy items plus a few treats to stay full all day long.

#5: Rent a villa for an extended stay. You'll be amazed how much more affordable it is to stay in a vacation villa than a hotel or resort when you're planning a week long (or longer) stay. Many villas are located within a ten-minute drive from the Disney theme parks and have deluxe amenities, including a washer and dryer, pool, Jacuzzi, recreational room, flat screen televisions and a community fitness center. Rates can be as low as $1,000 per week (or less) depending on the season.