If you’re a Disney World fan who visits multiple times a year, it might be time to consider an annual pass!
After a long hiatus, Disney World is selling annual passes once again starting April 20th, and if you’re trying to decide if you should get one, we’re here to help you weigh the pros and cons. Yes, they’re definitely expensive…but there’s one Disney World annual pass secret that nobody seems to talk about!
If you can’t shell out the big bucks to get annual passes for your entire family, have you ever considered just buying ONE? Nope, we’re not talking about doing solo trips and leaving your family at home (although if that’s your speed, we totally support a solo trip!). There are plenty of benefits you can score in the parks with just one Annual Passholder in your group!
First of all, it only takes one Passholder to score the discounts if you’re paying all together on one check. For annual pass room discounts that Disney runs from time to time, the Passholder will need to be the lead guest on the reservation, but your whole party can benefit from the savings of the discounted rate. The same goes for the 10% off discount at most table service restaurants in Disney World or the 20% discount on merchandise in gift shops — the Passholder just needs to be the one to foot the bill.
Annual Passholders also typically get discounts on special events and tours, and can purchase multiple tickets at the time of booking. So if you’re a Passholder and book the Keys to the Kingdom tour for a group (even if you’re the only Passholder), you’ll get that 15% off discounted rate. The same goes with tickets to things like After Hours, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party — you can purchase multiple discounted tickets.
The other thing that you could save big bucks on (or at least moderate bucks!) is parking! If you’re driving to Disney World and staying off-property, then you have to shell out $25 per day to park at the theme parks. But Annual Passholders get complimentary parking with all pass levels. SCORE!
So there you go — the benefits of getting a singular annual pass may be greater than you think! Keep in mind that if you live outside of Florida, your only annual pass option is the Incredi-Pass. Florida residents and DVC members can purchase the Sorcerer Pass. And only Florida residents can purchase the Pirate Pass or the Pixie Dust Pass.
We’ll keep you updated with any more annual pass news and any additional tips you need to know ahead of your Disney World vacation. Stay tuned to DFB for the latest updates!
Click Here to Learn More About the Sale of Annual Passes!
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Would you get an annual pass? Tell us in the comments!
Millie says
If you’re a passholder and you’re with someone who is not, can that person park hop with you after 2pm or do they need to make that 2pm park hop reservation. TY
DFB Gigi says
Hi Millie! The person with you would also need to have the park hopper option on their ticket in order to hop at 2pm. If you’re just going to the park at 2pm and not hopping and it’s their first park of the day, they’ll also need a reservation.
J. Compton says
I purchased a one day pass for June 11th and a one day pass for June 17th. I did not renew my annual pass due to Covid and then the annual pass was not available until now. Can I use my 2 one-day passes toward the purchase of an annual pass. I live in Georgia.
Angel says
Thanks for this tip! My husband and I were debating on buying annual passes (we live in Colorado) and after reading this, I purchased just one today! It’ll really save us some money in the long run!
Mary says
I have an annual pass and I have gone to the parks 22 days so far this year , it expires in May and I intend to go at least 2 more times. Do you think I made good use of my expenditures😉