102 Ways To Save Money at Walt Disney World
by Lou Mongello
Lou Mongello is an internationally-recognized expert and historian about the Walt Disney World Resort. A former attorney and IT director, he is the author of the Walt Disney World Trivia Books (Volumes I and II), as well as the Audio Guides to Walt Disney World, in which Lou takes you on a virtual tour of the Disney parks and resorts, enjoying their details, history, stories and overlooked experiences, all with the ambient sounds of the parks surrounding you.
Podcasting since early 2005, Lou is also the Host and Producer of WDW Radio, and the WDW Radio LIVE NewsCast, a LIVE weekly online video broadcast and chat covering Walt Disney World news and rumors. And he does a lot of other Disney-related stuff too!
The Overview
I’m always looking to save money when at Walt Disney World and have found some interesting and novel ways to do it over the years. But I always thought it was impossible for anyone to know all of the ways… until now! Lou Mongello certainly has done his research for this book.
From the basic pre-trip planning to detailed suggestions and links, this book will give you the A – Z of planning a successful WDW vacation. Tickets, packages, dining, packing, and shopping, are just some of the highlights.
The Review
For me, a seasoned Walt Disney World visitor, I was most impressed with the sheer amount of links. Whether to one of Lou’s podcasts or an official website, there is plenty of in-depth research material available outside of the actual pages of the book. This was especially beneficial when discussing some of Disney’s new programs, or existing but hard to understand programs, like the Disney Dining Plan. It always seemed like Greek to me, but with the links, I was finally able to understand exactly what I would need to do to fully benefit from such programs.
One of my favorite tips involved travel. Lou explains how sites such as Hotwire.com and Priceline.com work, how to use them to the best advantage, but also what pitfalls to watch out for. For instance, tickets bought on these sites cannot be changed if your plans do, and “you will NOT earn frequent flyer miles for flights booked on these sites.” This kind of information is throughout the book and very valuable if you’re like me and don’t have a lot of experience with such services!
Also, did you know that you don’t have to order the full combination meal at counter-service restaurants? You can just order the burger, for example, and save money by not paying for the fries and drink. Thanks Lou!
Conclusion
As I said, I’m not new to the whole Walt Disney World vacation thing, but this book still had many tips that will definitely make my next vacation more magical. I challenge anyone to read this book without coming away with a dozen or more tips that they plan to use, and honestly, I’m sure you’ll find many more than that!
Reviewing Disney Memories in 2009
I highly recommend this book, both for the initial read, and for the hours of extra viewing via links and podcast episodes. I’ll be keeping a copy on my mobile device for future reference!
This review of 102 Ways to Save Money at Walt Disney World by Lou Mongello is part of a Magical Blogorail sponsored campaign.
Disney expert and podcasting pioneer, Lou Mongello, shares 102 ways you can have the most magical Disney vacation without breaking the bank in this comprehensive, detailed, 197-page guide. 102 Ways to Save Money For and At Walt Disney World guide is a MUST HAVE for any family planning toward a Disney vacation.
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I agree Lee! Great tips for anyone traveling to WDW needing to save money!
Hey, even you don’t NEED to save, why not save? Thanks for commenting, Beth!
I like how it’s not just for 1st-time visitors, but also has helpful tips for even the most seasoned WDW visitors.
Yup, something for everyone!
I agree Lee, the links were fabulous. Even though I like a good book in my hands every once in a while, I would tell people to buy the digital version for sure! Thanks for a great review!
The digital version is great to take along on a Disney trip. Always ready for reference. Thanks for commenting!
We have WDW APs and visit at least twice in a 365 day period. Even I found several new tips and tricks! Great review!
Thanks Lin! It seems there’s always something to learn!
Great post, Lee! If you had one tip that you absolutely found to be the best in the book, which one is it?
Thanks Mike! I have to stay with mine from the review: The ability to buy only part of a counter service meal. I definitely plan to use that during my next visit.
The links were a bonus Lee, I agree! (And not many authors point others so generously to other sites.) There was enough new information to keep this old timer interested, and a wealth of knowledge to share with first timers. Great review!!
Thanks! It was good to see Lou use other’s resources and share the glory!
I am an avid listener to Lou’s show, so the links are excellent! Also I loved the 40 free ideas at the end. Great read!
It was a great read! Thanks for commenting.
I love the links, too – definitely made it even more enjoyable As Walt said – plussed up!
I hadn’t thought of the ‘plussed up’ angle, but it fits! Thanks for the comment!
I feel like I am a seasoned visitor to WDW so it’s great to know that there is still information in the book for me. I’m always looking for new ways to save. 🙂
This book is definitely for everyone, regardless of level of Disney experience!
I love not having to buy the entire meal! I am always throwing away stuff because I am not that hungry. I also was impressed with how Lou puts all the information we have known about into one place with easy access.
It will make an invaluable research tool for future trips for sure!