Money-Saving Tips on Accommodations

Opt for Vacation Homes Over Theme Park Properties

Avoid staying at expensive theme park properties. OrlandoVacation.com offers over 300 Orlando vacation homes located 15 to 30 minutes from all major theme parks and Orlando's top attractions. Staying in an Orlando vacation home outside the theme park areas can save you hundreds on lodging. While most websites recommend theme park properties, it's important to note that many of these recommendations come from non-locals. Investors and national hotel chains have heavily marketed properties near Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Studios, leading to higher costs.

Benefits of Off-Site Hotels

Off-site hotels often provide more amenities at lower prices to attract visitors. These include multiple pools, larger rooms, free meals, and a range of kids’ activities. Many of these hotels are superior to Disney's All-Star Resorts and come at a fraction of the cost.

Early Booking Savings

The earlier you book your vacation, the better the price. As hotel occupancy rates increase, so do prices. Booking 4 to 6 months in advance ensures the best rates.

Consider Vacation Rentals for Larger Groups

If traveling with four or more people, consider a Disney condo, townhouse, or Orlando vacation pool villa. These options are cheaper than booking two hotel rooms and offer more space. All vacation homes and condos come with fully functional kitchens, allowing you to save on dining expenses by eating in. This can save an average family about $70 per meal, which adds up over a longer stay. Many condo communities offer private movie theaters, community pools, and mini-golf courses, with all vacation homes featuring private pools.

Utilize Free Amenities and Shuttle Services

The competition among Orlando hotels is fierce, leading many to offer free breakfast or “kids eat free” programs and free shuttle service to Disney World. These perks can save you between $45 and $70 a day. The free shuttle service alone saves $14 per day in Disney World parking fees.

Choose National Hotel Chains for Satisfaction Guarantees

Most national hotel chains offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, ensuring you have recourse if any issues arise during your stay. Locally owned hotels often do not provide this guarantee.

Book Hotels Near Disney for Better Rates

If your vacation includes visits to both Disney World and Universal Studios, consider staying at hotels near Disney World for better prices and discounts compared to those near Universal Studios.

Money-Saving Tips on Attractions

Plan Your Activities in Advance

Before purchasing tickets, decide on the attractions you and your family want to visit. If you have young children, consider not visiting the parks every day as it can be exhausting for them. Research the rides and height restrictions to ensure the parks you choose are suitable for your children's ages.

Focus on One Major Theme Park

Consider dedicating your visit to either Disney or Universal Studios for better daily rates. For example, our discounted price for a 4-Day Disney Park Hopper is only $4 less than a 7-Day Park Hopper. The theme parks offer better pricing on multi-day passes, as they know you'll spend more on food and souvenirs the longer you stay.

Explore Lesser-Known Theme Parks

While Disney, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld are the most popular, Orlando has over 52 different theme parks, many of which are fun and educational. Check out the variety of attractions available to find some hidden gems. View more Other Attractions in Orlando Tickets.

Purchase Discounted Tickets

Buying tickets at a discount is the best way to save money. Surprisingly, about 45% of Disney World visitors buy their tickets at the gate, missing out on savings. Most theme park tickets can be purchased at a discount ranging from $4 to $20 off the gate price. View our discounted Disney Tickets and Universal Studios Tickets.

Use Free Shuttle Services

If your hotel offers free shuttle service to the parks, take advantage of it. Parking at theme parks costs $14 per day, so using the shuttle can save you money.

Money-Saving Tips on Dining Out in Orlando

Eat Outside the Parks

Just like at a movie theater, food inside theme parks is priced higher because they have a captive audience. The more meals you plan outside the park, the more you save. Orlando has many excellent restaurants, especially along Highway 192 and I-Drive, offering great specials.

Look for Coupons and Deals

Orlando has three major citywide guides that are free and filled with buy-one-get-one-free coupons and drink specials. These guides are a great resource for finding dining deals.

Avoid Early Dinners at the Parks

Some sites recommend having an early dinner at the parks to save money, but this can lead to spending more later due to hunger. Instead, enjoy the diverse dining options Orlando offers, both inside and outside the parks.

Take Advantage of Meal Deals

The best deal in Orlando is the $18 special at Universal, which includes a movie ticket at the Loews Theater and dinner at one of six restaurants inside CityWalk.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your Orlando vacation without breaking the bank.

Money-Saving Tips on Shopping

Explore Orlando’s Outlet Centers

Orlando boasts many excellent shopping malls and three huge outlet centers near Disney World. These outlets feature name brands such as Nike, DKNY, Brooks Brothers, Gucci, Polo, and more. You can find great deals with discounts ranging from 35% to 65% off retail prices.

Buy Souvenirs at the End of Your Vacation

Purchasing souvenirs at the end of your trip can save you money and reduce hassle. Your kids will have a better idea of what they want, and you’ll avoid the need to pack additional items for the journey home.

Ship Items Home

Consider asking the sales clerk to ship your purchases to your home, especially if you live out of state. This not only saves you the trouble of packing but also helps you avoid the 6.5% sales tax, effectively giving you free shipping.

Look for Coupons and Sales

Orlando’s hotels, restaurants, and stores are all competing for your business. Keep an eye out for coupons and store-wide sales, which are frequently available and can offer significant savings.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the best shopping experiences Orlando has to offer while keeping your budget in check.