Save Money in Walt Disney World - Split Stays
Desperate to stay in luxury in Walt Disney World Resort property but your wallet says otherwise? Dreaming of a Deluxe resort but know that an entire week will break the bank. Let me introduce, Split Stays! This is my FAVORITE way to save money while still being able to live in luxury at Walt Disney World.
What is a “Split Stay”?
Basically, this is where you stay in one hotel for a portion of your vacation and another the next. It’s an incredible way to experience multiple hotels on Walt Disney World property AND, the best part, Disney makes it easy. If you are moving from one Walt Disney World Resort hotel to another, Cast Members will move your luggage for free (though I do recommend tipping). The morning of your check out from your first resort, bring your luggage to the bell stand (usually next to registration or sometimes outside of the main entrance), and let them know which hotel you are heading to next. Your luggage typically arrives by 4 pm to your next hotel.
Tips to a Successful Split Stay:
Stay at a Value Resort FIRST, then head to a Deluxe Resort on the last portion of your trip. The most expensive days in a hotel are Friday and Saturday nights. If your typical trip is Saturday to Saturday, then staying at a Value at the beginning of the week will help you to avoid some of those expensive days at a more expensive hotel. Another advantage, you get to end your vacation at a higher end resort with more amenities. Trust me, after all of those exhausting days in a park, relaxing in your resort jacuzzi will be heaven! It is MUCH harder to do the reverse.
Go to a park on your change day. Since your luggage may not arrive until 4 pm at your next resort, it is easier to spend that time enjoying a park than waiting at your new resort for your luggage. Plus, Walt Disney World free transportation can easily take you to a park while it is a bit more complicated to go from a hotel to another hotel. If you know that you’ll need an afternoon break from the park, be sure to pack your swim gear or anything else you might need and enjoy the new resort amenities.
Schedule your Deluxe stay during extended evening hours. Currently, all guests of Deluxe resorts are welcome to enjoy extended evening hours at select parks on Mondays and Wednesdays (original published date June 17, 2022). If you check into your Deluxe resort on a Wednesday, you’ll be able to enjoy the extended hours that night! Note that as of now, you MUST have a park reservation in order to enter that park OR have a park hopper ticket and have checked into your scheduled park already.
Take advantage of the amenities! While all Walt Disney World hotels are amazing, Deluxe resorts come with some incredible additions that do not compare. These include AMAZING pools with waterslides, jacuzzi / hot tubs, table service restaurants (you’ll find some of the best food on property at these resorts), spas, balconies/patios, and so much more! Save your rest day(s) for your Deluxe stay! If you do not plan on taking a rest day (which I do not recommend), and are going to spend your entire time in a park, then you are not getting your money’s worth.
Which resort is on your bucket list?
Value Hotels include:
Disney’s All-Star Resorts (includes Movies, Music, and Sports)
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (access to the Skyliner and has Family Suites)
Disney’s Pop Century Resort (access to the Skyliner)
The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness (bring a tent or your own RV)
Deluxe Hotels include:
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Choose a Savannah view rooms to enjoy your morning coffee with a view of animals)
Disney’s Beach Club Resort (Walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn (Walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
Disney’s Contemporary Resort (Less than 10 minute walk to Magic Kingdom and on Monorail Loop)
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (About 15 minute walk to Magic Kingdom and on Monorail Loop)
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (About 20 minute walk to Magic Kingdom and on Monorail Loop)
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (Ferry boat to Magic Kingdom)
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort (Walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios)
Ready to book your next Disney vacation? Contact me for a free quote. I’ll take care of the planning, you just enjoy the experience! (my services are 100% complimentary!)
