If a Walt Disney World visit is planned for your family this year, like many folks, you may be trying to see how you can avoid spending a fortune while there.
The good news is that there are many inexpensive...
and even free...
ways to have fun, stretch your dollars, and actually have an affordable Disney vacation.
Whether you are looking for things to do, or souvenirs to bring home, here are 10 ways to maximize the magic and minimize the cost.

1. Visit the Disney resorts.
   The Animal Kingdom Lodge especially has animal observation areas that are fascinating places to animal watch!
2. Spend an afternoon or evening at Disney's Boardwalk, where you will find arcade games and activities just like at the beach.
   
3. Ride the monorail.
   It's a must do on every vacation we have at Disney World.
   
4. Take a ride on a Segway! While there are several Segway tours, they can be a little pricey.
   For anyone over a certain height, you can have a lesson for free..
   ..
   along with a photo op..
   ..
   at Epcot's Innoventions.
   
5. Souvenirs don't have to be budget busters.
   In fact, some of the best ones are some of the cheapest ones: pressed pennies, postcards, pencils, and pins all make great mementos, and are perfect for kids who love collecting things.
   
6. If you have kids, character autographs will probably be a big hit.
   Turn this into a lasting souvenir by using something other than an autograph book: try tee shirts, hats, posters, or pillowcases instead.
   Be sure to have the characters use a sharpie for lasting signatures.
   
7. Pin trade.
   While pin trading can end up costing a lot of money, if you start small, and keep to a budget, your kids (and you) can start a really fun and interesting hobby.
   
8. For an international flavor to your souvenirs, have your children stop at each of the World Showcase countries at Epcot to do the KidCot fun stop activities.
   They're fun, they're educational, and best of all, they make great, free souvenirs.
   
9. Think pools.
   Just about every hotel has a pool in Florida, and many are quite elaborate.
   Be sure to use it! Especially if you are visiting in the summer, you will appreciate the chance to unwind for a few hours each day at the pool...
   and your kids will love it too.
   
10. Stop to smell the roses..
    ..
    literally! We have visited Walt Disney World more than 10 times and on each visit we discover something new to us! Disney World is a truly fascinating place, and if you can take a few minutes each day to appreciate those little details, your trip will be that much more enjoyable.
    

Affordable Disney vacations are all about maximizing your money, your time, and your experiences.
Happily, some of those best experiences will not cost you anything, but will create memories that are truly priceless!