Saving Money at The World - Accommodations

Of all the questions people ask me about planning their Disney vacation the one I get the most is, "How can I save money?"  While this sounds like a completely reasonable question to ask, as most people I know are trying to maximize their dollar -- the sad fact is that people think that a Disney trip has to break the bank, and that just isn't so.  Believe me, my husband and I are both public school teachers, and if our meager salaraies can support a Disney vacation every two years or so, then the typical American can afford one too!


One Suggestion for getting the biggest bang for your Disney buck:

Visit during a Value Season 

WDW Resorts rates dip and dive throughout the calendar year.  These "seasons" dictate the resort rate - but NOT the ticket prices (ticket prices are set for a specific time frame; usually a calendar year).  The best way to save money on accommodations is to book during a value season.  These dates are the ones during time windows where schools are in session, and few families are able to travel to WDW.  While it is difficult for most families to lock in a value season rate, other seasons are available.  The key is to avoid Peak Seasons and Holiday rates.   


2012 Value Season Dates:
Value 1 Season Jan 2 - 4
Value 1 Season  Jan 8 - 12
Value 1 Season Jan 16 - Feb 15
Value 2 Season Aug 5 - Sept 27
* Higher rates for New Year's  Jan 1, Marathon Weekend  Jan 5 - 7, President's Day Feb 17-19, Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend Jan 13-15


2012 Fall Season Dates:
Fall Season   Sept 28 - Oct 4
Fall Season  Oct 8 - Nov 16
Fall Season Nov 24 - Dec 20
* Higher Rates for Columbus Day  Oct 5 - 7 & Thanksgiving Nov 17 - 23


2012 Regular Season Dates:
Regular Season  Feb 26 - March 8
Regular Season April 15- May 31
* Higher rates for Easter April 1 - April 14


2012 Summer Season Dates:
Summer Season June 1 - Aug 4


2012 Peak Season Dates:
Peak Season Feb 20 - Feb 25
Peak Season  Mar 9 - March 31


2012 Holiday Dates:
Holiday Season Dec 21 - Dec 31


Keep in mind that rates are higher on weekends.  Arriving on a Monday and staying through Friday is a great way to maximize your accommodations dollar -- staying off property the the night before your scheduled arrival at the WDW Resort ensures that you get the most time with your theme park tickets.  Even purchasing a day or two fewer theme park tickets for your stay and spending a day or two at Downtown Disney or nearby outlet malls makes for a great way to save some money!


Also worth noting is that Disney DOES run special offers throughout the year!  It is sometimes possible to save up to 40% on Disney accommodations and vacation packages.  www.mousesavers.com publishes an updated list of all discount codes and offers.