Disney World is often referred to as “The Happiest Place on Earth”, but it can also be one of the most expensive. From park tickets to accommodations, meals, and souvenirs, a Disney vacation can cost a pretty penny. But what if I told you there are ways to reduce these costs and potentially visit Disney World for free? While it might not be entirely free, these money-saving strategies can significantly cut down the overall cost of your trip. Here’s your all-in-one guide on how to go to Disney World for free.
While it may not be possible to go to Disney World entirely for free, you can significantly reduce costs by staying in offsite accommodations, using credit card rewards to cover travel and ticket costs, participating in volunteer programs, entering contests and sweepstakes, and taking advantage of special offers and discounts. Additionally, there are several free activities to enjoy at Disney World, such as exploring Disney Springs, resort hopping, and participating in wellness activities.
Ways to Save Money on Your Disney Trip
1. Staying Offsite
Accommodations can make up a large chunk of your Disney vacation budget. One way to save money is by staying in an offsite hotel. Although you might miss out on some Disney Resort perks, the savings can be significant.
2. Credit Card Rewards
Credit cards with generous signup bonuses and reward points can be a game-changer. By strategically using specific credit cards and accumulating rewards, you can potentially cover the costs of your Disney resort stay, park tickets, and even airfare. For instance, Brittany, a reader of Travel Hacking Mom, saved over $5,000 on her trip to Disney World using this method.
3. Volunteering
Disney’s VoluntEARS program allows employees and cast members to turn their eligible hours of volunteer service into financial contributions from the company to eligible charities of their choice. This may not directly provide free tickets, but it’s a great way to give back to the community while possibly earning some Disney perks.
4. Contests and Sweepstakes
There are often contests and sweepstakes that offer Disney vacations as prizes. Some radio stations, influencers, or companies that collaborate with Disney host these contests. Be sure to follow the contest rules and eligibility requirements to increase your chances of winning.
5. Special Offers and Discounts
Disney occasionally offers special deals and discounts on park tickets, hotel stays, and vacation packages. Keep an eye on the Disney website and sign up for their newsletter for the latest offers.
Free Things to Do at Disney World
Disney World also offers several free activities that don’t require park admission. Here are some of the best free things to do:
- Discover Disney Springs.
- Stroll around Crescent Lake and Disney’s BoardWalk.
- Resort hop to explore their unique themes and amenities.
- Ride the Disney Skyliner for aerial views of the resort.
- Participate in scavenger hunts at Disney resorts.
- Enjoy live music and entertainment at Disney Springs.
- Visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
- Take a drawing class at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
- Sample Coca-Cola beverages at Club Cool in EPCOT.
- Participate in Wellness Wednesdays and Fitness Fridays at Disney Springs.
Conclusion
While a completely free trip to Disney World might not be feasible, there are plenty of ways to save money and even enjoy certain aspects of Disney World for free. By being strategic with credit card rewards, looking out for special offers, and taking advantage of free activities, you can make your Disney World vacation more affordable. Remember, the goal is to create magical memories without breaking the bank, and with these tips, you’re well on your way to doing just that.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some credit cards that offer rewards beneficial for a Disney World trip?
Some credit cards with rewards beneficial for a Disney World trip include the Disney Premier Visa Card, which offers Disney reward dollars, and travel reward cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or Capital One Venture Rewards Card, which offer points that can be redeemed for travel expenses.
What is the Disney VoluntEARS program?
The Disney VoluntEARS program is a volunteer initiative where Disney employees and cast members can volunteer their time to eligible charities and in return, Disney makes financial contributions to these charities. This program doesn’t directly provide free tickets but can offer other Disney perks.
Where can I find contests and sweepstakes that offer Disney vacations as prizes?
You can find contests and sweepstakes offering Disney vacations as prizes on radio stations, social media platforms, and websites of companies that collaborate with Disney. Keep in mind that these contests usually require you to follow certain rules and meet eligibility requirements.
What are some special deals and discounts that Disney offers?
Disney offers a variety of special deals and discounts that can include reduced prices on park tickets, hotel stays, and vacation packages. These offers change periodically, so it’s best to check the Disney website or sign up for their newsletter to stay updated.
Can I visit Disney World parks for free?
Unfortunately, you cannot visit Disney World parks for free. However, there are several free activities you can enjoy at Disney World that don’t require park admission, such as exploring Disney Springs or participating in scavenger hunts at Disney resorts.
