Comparison shop.

Start by logging on to Disney World. This primary Disney site will show you how to put together your own package including the items you need from airfare to hotels, rental cars, and tickets. It is also your best source for info on any special price breaks Disney will be offering during the times you plan to visit. The best deals obviously are offered during the times when the parks are less crowded. In other words, don't expect too many price breaks if you're visiting in summer or during a major holiday.

If you're willing to consider staying at a non-Disney hotel, your next move is to call your travel agent. (Travel agents are usually the most help if you're planning to stay at a non-Disney hotel--the discounts they can get you on Disney hotels are negligible. But, even if you have your heart set on staying onsite at a Disney hotel, it never hurts to know what the competition is offering.) In the past Orlando hotels have offered incredible discounts in an effort to compete with Disney. Flying down? Some airline packages have also significantly beaten the prices offered by Disney itself.

Families who definitely want to stay at a Disney hotel should skip the travel agent step and next call (407) W-DISNEY to see if the operator can beat the Internet price. I've spoken to many families who found significant differences in the rates offered on the Internet and over the phone. (Sometimes the phone call netted better savings, sometimes the Internet did.) Be sure to check out both options.

By now you should be zeroing in on which route will lead you to the best savings. But no matter how you purchase your package, always look very carefully at what it includes. Many packages throw in perks to make it look like you're getting a better deal than you are. Fantasia alarm clocks, commemorative coins, and a welcoming bottle of champagne are nice, but they don't save you money. Likewise, discounts on golf course greens fees or spa visits only have value if you were planning to play golf or get a massage while you were in Orlando.

Make sure you really need every component that the package includes. For example, if you're flying down and staying in a Disney hotel, you may not need a rental car. If you're visiting in the winter and not planning to visit the water parks, you don't need ticket packages that include the water parks. If you're into fine dining and want to sample every ethnic cuisine at Epcot, a package which includes all your meals may be a bargains--but if you have young kids and prefer grabbing fast food on the run, a meal-inclusive package simply won't pay for itself.

The bottom line is that if something is included in the package you're paying for it one way or the other, even if you're paying at a reduced rate. A package full of non-essentials will end up costing you more than purchasing your room, tickets, and food separately. So don't get so swayed by the pretty brochure that you forget to do the basic math.

Updated February 2006.