8 Disney Hotel Tips From the Girl Behind Bed Science™

Hey there Disney fam! Quincy here. Are you getting ready for your next Disney World hotel stay?

Whether you’re a one-night-and-done kinda guest or you’re settling in for a whole week of magic, there are a few tips that can make your Disney World stay even more magical. So let’s dive into my favorite Disney World hotel tips!

These are some of my top Disney World hotel tips so you can make sure you’re getting the most out of your experience!

Always Check for Special Offers (Even After You Book!)

Okay, let’s start with one of my favorite Disney hotel tips. You know how you always keep an eye out for new Disney deals? Here’s the thing: don’t stop looking after you book!

Disney actually lets you apply new discounts to your reservation after it’s already made, so if a sweet new deal pops up, call Disney and ask if it can be applied to your stay. Sometimes, you can end up saving a nice chunk of change. Maybe it’ll even be enough for a Mickey Pretzel…or five!

Check-in with the App, but Swing by the Front Desk Too

Checking in through the My Disney Experience app is such a time-saver! Just tap through the app, and boom. You can skip the line at the front desk, get a text when your room is ready (which is often earlier than expected), and head straight to your room. But here’s a little something I love to do: I still like stopping by the front desk!

Here are a couple of reasons why: First, they’ll give you a map, which is especially handy if you’re staying at a larger resort. Second, you can grab a physical room key, which can be awesome if you want to skip using your MagicBand or phone.

Don’t Be Afraid to Request Extra Pillows

This is my go-to for a truly cozy Disney sleep. Don’t hesitate to ask for more pillows! Disney hotels are generally awesome about sending extra pillows to your room.

I personally like to build a whole pillow nest to cocoon myself in. It’s like your own little Disney dream cloud! Just call down to housekeeping or stop by the front desk, and they’ll hook you up.

Get Cutlery When You Have Leftovers

You know that feeling when you bring leftovers back to your room, only to realize you have nothing to eat them with? Well, Disney World hotel rooms typically don’t come with cutlery (or plates, or a microwave). So, before you head back to your room with those leftover eats, grab a couple of plastic utensils from the hotel’s quick-service spot.

Also, most of those quick-service areas have a microwave you can use if you need to reheat your food which comes in clutch if you’re trying to stretch those Disney dollars!

Choose Your Hotel Based on How Much You’ll Actually Be There

Let’s get real. Choosing a Disney hotel can be overwhelming, especially with the range from Value to Deluxe options. Here’s my advice: Pick your hotel based on how much time you’ll actually spend there.

If you’re planning to hit the parks from open to close, a Value resort is going to be perfect, and it’ll save you money. But, if you’re craving a chill resort day or two (or three), consider splurging on a Moderate or Deluxe resort with all its extra amenities. It’s all about aligning your hotel vibe with your Disney schedule!

Play with Your Dates to Get the Best Price

If you’re flexible with your travel dates, this can save you big time! Disney hotel prices can fluctuate based on demand, and the same room can cost way less during off-peak times like February or early September.

When planning, try a few different date combinations to see if you can find a sweet spot for lower prices. Sometimes shifting your trip by just a day or two can make a big difference in the cost.

Remember: Free Parking at the Parks Is a Perk!

Now, you may not have known this, but staying at a Disney hotel actually gives you free parking at all four Disney World theme parks!

While Magic Kingdom might be faster to reach with Disney transportation, having a car can be a game-changer for places like Animal Kingdom or EPCOT, where parking can save you a lot of time. So, if you’re road-tripping or renting a car, remember you have a bit more flexibility with this freebie.

The Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve Are Hidden Deluxe Gems

Lastly, if you’re looking for Deluxe perks without the Deluxe price, let me introduce you to my favorite “secret” Disney hotels: the Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve!

These hotels are technically on Disney property, but they’re run by Marriott. They’re usually more affordable than Disney’s Deluxe resorts but still offer perks like Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours. Plus, they’re right near EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, so you’re just a quick walk or boat ride away from the magic.

Those are just a couple of my favorite Disney World hotel tips. Now we love hearing from you, so go ahead and share your thoughts down in the comments. Until then, keep it right here at AllEars for all the latest Disney news!