The rent, mortgage, tuition, car payment, groceries and gas are all too high. Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and everyone is in need of some sunshine, rest and relaxation after a long winter. In addition to everything costing more, inflation vacation is real. We deserve a sunny getaway with our families, but we also need our coins. What is one to do?
A trip to Walt Disney World is the perfect remedy to cabin fever and a great way to make the Summer of 2026 unforgettable whether you have children yourself, or are simply a child at heart. I’ve taken my share of amazing hosted Disney trips but as an intrepid reporter, and a frugal working mom to an expensive seven-year-old son, I’m always searching for approachable ways those without press perks can also enjoy awesome Walt Disney World experiences while being financially responsible. Because let’s face it: Summer camp prices are astronomical, kids outgrow their clothes and sneakers in 5 minutes, and God forbid you want to renovate your kitchen. Adulting in this economy ain’t for the weak.
Here are 7 real and relatable ways to make your next visit to Walt Disney World more wallet-friendly without sacrificing fun. After reading this, you’ll be ready to schedule your next trip. Just be sure to tell Mickey, Minnie and our good sis’ Princess Tiana we said, “Hey!”
GET IN THE WATER (FOR FREE!)Guests arriving in summer 2026 to a Disney Resorts Collection hotel receive complimentary admission to a Walt Disney World water park on their check-in day. This benefit is available to guests with a reservation at an eligible Disney Resorts Collection hotel, for check-in dates from May 26 to September 8, 2026. Trust us, Disney Water Parks are an underrated gem and definitely a cool way to begin your vacay.
SUMMA, SUMMA, SUMMATIME!Summer offers some of the best ticket prices of the year and longer theme park hours which equates to greater value. Combine this with Disney’s experiences like their Cool Kids Summer packages, and the season becomes a prime time to visit the most magical place on Earth.
Resort hotels offer a variety of options, including 5 value resorts that feature the same legendary storytelling found in the theme parks. Guests can get two free room nights and theme park days when purchasing a select 4-night, 4-day (or longer) Walt Disney Travel Company room and ticket package. That means at least six days to experience Disney World, where families can relax at their resort and enjoy their favorite rides, create priceless memories and the kiddos don’t have to miss school. This deal is available for visits most nights May 26 through September 15, 2026.
Insider tip: A huge incentive of staying on property is the access to air conditioned resort shuttles which are abundant, convenient, reliable and help you save on gas, parking, ride share fees and rental car costs.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICERemember to ask about discounts and special incentives if you and/or someone in your party is an active member of the military, a veteran, law enforcement and/or first responder professional, medical professional or educator. For details, check out their special offers page, which does include Disney Military Salute Tickets and Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Tickets. *This is an under-utilized tip for all travel. It never hurts to ask.
GET YOUR GOLF ONDid you realize you can enjoy miniature golf at Disney World? My son had a ball at Winter Summerland and it was a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the large theme parks. Our tee time helped make the pace of our most recent Disney stay more manageable. At just $19 per person for adults and $12 per person for children ages 3-9, it was also super affordable. Win-win!
SPEND A DAY WINDOW SHOPPINGAnother fun and frugal way to break up your vacation is to hang out at Disney Springs. The Disney Springs vibes are chill and laid back. In addition to restaurants (Homecomin’ Kitchen is delicious!), shops and boutiques, there are opportunities to people watch, stroll around, enjoy the artsy scenery (be sure to check out the Art Walk corridor) and even hear live music—no theme park ticket required—all for free ninety-nine.
LIVE IN THE FAST LANEYes, lightening lane passes might seem like an unnecessary cost upfront, but it will save you time waiting on long lines and energy (which can easily run low in hot weather). Less time waiting on long lines means more time enjoying the parks and each other. If you know you and your crew enjoy getting on very popular rides, it is likely worth it. Think value over cost.
MINIMIZE THE SOUVENIRSThe urge to splurge (on everything for everyone) once you arrive to Disney is tempting. Tell your little ones—and yourself—that you will purchase one special souvenir from the vacation…Dat’s it! And set a price limit for that item before your arrival. This reduces disappointment and time wasting. You do not need to buy novelty ears for all six of your nieces and nephews. Grandma will be pleased with a simple picture (in a dollar store frame) snapped with your cell phone of her precious grand baby in front of the magical castle. And your credit card balance will not be through the roof when you return home.
BONUS: Keep pre-vacation clothing and accessories purchases to a minimum. The matching family outfits at Disney are cute but not obligatory. If you must, limit the matchy-matchy looks to one day. Wear what’s already in your closet (yes, even the clothes you posted on social media from your last vacation) and keep it moving. Your bank account will thank you.
