Guide to Disney World on a Budget

Traveling to Disney World does not mean you have to spend thousands and thousands of dollars on your vacation. (Of course, it is very easy to do so if you'd like!) You can plan a trip to Disney World well within a reasonable family budget, and still keep the Disney "magic".

Most people pay "rack rate" for Disney tickets, hotel rooms, and rental cars. Rack rates are the full, published rates for these items. If you want to get any kind of deal at all, do not even consider paying rack rate for anything.

One of the tricks to getting deeply discounted rates is to research and book your arrangements by yourself - avoid going through a travel agent, or booking a package deal through Disney.

Timing is essential in getting cheaper rates at Disney World. If you plan to visit during a "peak" season such as Christmas or Spring Break, you are going to pay through the nose. By taking your vacation during the off-season such as October or May, you'll enjoy both cheaper rates and fewer crowds. Check out non-official Disney fan sites such as www. mousesavers.com or www.disboards.com to find out what events are happening at each park, sign up to receive discount codes, and read about tips about visiting the area.

To arrange transportation to get to Orlando, start early. Most airlines and rental car companies offer less expensive rates the earlier you book. Adjust your arrival and departure dates before you finally book to see how a day or two can change your rates. Most rental car companies will honor discount codes - check out the websites above, or ask about special deals.

Hotels on Disney property are convenient to the parks, but also normally more expensive than hotels outside the grounds. Even with discounted rates, a budget Disney value hotel (such as the All Stars and Pop Century) will cost about $100 a night. The first-class hotels (like the Polynesian and Grand Floridian) will begin from $200 to $500 a night. Hotels just outside the grounds can be found for under $100 a night, including a breakfast buffet. Some Disney travelers, however, must stay on Disney grounds to have a magical experience. If you'd like to keep your budget down, all the Disney value hotels have small but clean accommodations, infused with Disney charm and friendly employees.

Buying tickets to get you into each Disney park will cost more if you pay at the gate. To purchase tickets at discounted rates, check out www.mousesavers.com and click on "Walt Disney World Discounts" on the left hand side.