Disney Vacation Account (closed)—This program let you set up automatic and recurring contributions to a savings account on the schedule that works best for you (weekly, biweekly, or monthly). Unfortunately, it's closing for good in September 2017 and no new accounts or deposts are being accepted.
Disney Vacation Club (DVC)—This timeshare program may save money for families who plan ahead. DVC members also get discounts on select meals, admission, and backstage tours. See page 108.
Disney “Postcard” Specials and Advertisements—Disney sometimes offers lodging discounts in direct mail and mass media advertisements. These offers may be sent to previous Disney guests and vacationers who’ve requested planning materials, or they may appear in newspaper or TV ads. These offers usually have eligibility requirements, such as residence in a particular state, or can only be used by the person who received the mailing. If you receive an offer, be sure to save it for your records. You’ll need the “coupon code” and perhaps an ID number (“pin code”) to make your reservation. Be sure you are eligible for the offer—if you show up at Disney and can’t prove eligibility, you’ll lose your “deal.” Visit MouseSavers.com for a listing of current offers. Tip: Be sure to check your “spam” e-mail folder for any wayward Disney offers that may wind up there. Note: No one outside of Disney knows just how it's decided who gets these offers; some people never receive them, while others get several a year. To maximize your chances, sign up for Disney e-mails on the Disney website (and open all the e-mails!). Another strategy that sometimes works is to log in to Disney's web site, start to plan a vacation, and complete everything except the payment. One reader tells us she received her very first pin code within a week of doing just that!
Military Discounts—Disney offers many specials for active, retired, and reserve members of the military. Disney regularly offers their very best resort discounts (around 35%) for military members. Be sure to inquire when you make reservations—the number of rooms is limited and they're snapped up quickly! The Military Salute tickets, which have been offered annually for many years now, are available as four- or five-day base, hopper, or water-parks-and-more tickets at a steep discount over regular prices. Easter week and the last two weeks in December are usually block-out dates, and some other restrictions apply. Military members in the same categories can also buy regular tickets at discounted prices. Check with your local MWR or ITT office, or buy them at Shades of Green military resort (Shadesofgreen.org).
Bounceback Offer—After you arrive at a Disney resort hotel, you may get an offer to return (“bounceback”) to Walt Disney World at some point in the future at a great rate! Look for bounceback offers in your hotel room, or after you return home.
Orlando Magicard—This free card offers discounts on many non-Disney shows and park tickets, as well as rental cars and hotels. Call 888-416-4026 or visit them online at OrlandoInfo.com.
Entertainment Book—This annual discount book offers coupons for rental cars, off-property hotels and restaurants, and non-Disney theme parks like Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and Busch Gardens. Cost is about $35 for a new 2018 edition (older editions may be less). Call 888-231-SAVE (888-231-7283) or visit Entertainment.com.
American Automobile Association (AAA)—Members enjoy discounts on tickets when purchased through AAA (resort discounts ended at the start of 2015).
