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I’m a Grandparent and Disney Expert: 5 Smart Tips To Save on Your Trip

August 30, 2025

3 min Read

Written by Gabrielle Olya

Edited by Molly Sullivan

©Shonette Holbrook

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As a longtime Disney enthusiast and planDisney panelist, Shonette Holbrook knows how to make the most of a trip to the “Most Magical Place on Earth” — without overspending. She first visited Walt Disney World on her honeymoon over 30 years ago and has since been back numerous times with her children — and now grandchildren.

Holbrook shared her top money-saving tips with GOBankingRates to help families plan smarter Disney vacations.

Watch for Seasonal Disney Deals

Keep an eye on the Special Offers, Deals & Discounts page on the Disney websites. You’ll often find seasonal promotions to save on tickets, resort hotels and, from time to time, free dining offers.

Use Discounted Disney Gift Cards

These gift cards can be used for everything from resort hotels and theme park tickets to food at the parks. By purchasing gift cards in advance — and sometimes at a discount from retail stores — you can spread out the cost of your trip and save a little, too.

Travel During Off-Peak Times

If you want to keep your costs down, consider traveling during the “off-season.” Parks usually get busier and more expensive during holidays and spring break. Traveling on weekdays can also help reduce costs. By simply thinking about when you travel, you can keep your trip within budget.

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Plan a Day at Your Resort

Plan for an “off” day during your vacation. You don’t need to buy a theme park ticket for every day of your trip. Spend a day relaxing by your resort hotel’s pool and enjoying the free activities offered to Disney guests daily. From dance parties and campfires to trivia games and more, you’ll discover plenty of magical ways to enjoy your day at the hotel.