Years ago I got a Disney Rewards Visa card. You earn points with every purchase; the more on the card, the more points. Each point = $1. I put my bigger charges on that card and even going twice a year, I usually have enought points to put toward a 3 day park hopper ticket, so one of us gets in at no cost for 3 days. There's really no down side since I am going to have a Visa card anyway. - Bo22  331.1 #469 4:25PM

One bit of advice is that if you can get to the parks in the morning, get a star tours fast pass straight away. They can go pretty fast and before you know it the return time is for 10:00 at night. As far as rides go, definitely take advantage of fast passes. Get a fast pass for an "E-ticket" ride and then while you're waiting for the next available fast pass, ride rides with short lines. Also, there is a printed return window on your fastpass ticket, but you don't need to meet that time frame as far as I know. I often use my fastpasses way after the return time. Sorry for talking your ear off, I hope this helps! - x2ndstar2therightx  200.8 #1626 3:45PM

Go cheap on the motel - you aren't going to be there much anyways - find one with free breakfast - that will help on expenses. Take turns riding on the rides with the little ones - while one of you is on the ride with the kids, the other can be checking out the surroundings. There is so much detail that shouldn't be missed. Take TONS of pictures so you can relive it all after the trip. Pack snacks! And most of all - take your time and just have fun. - princessSue  259.0 #921 3:58PM

My best friend is also up in NorCal (Modesto area) & she got one of those ticket & hotel packages when she took her nephew back in June. She stayed @ the Motel 6 Main Gate & said it was decent. I don't recall exactly how much it was, but I do remember it being a good deal. Look into that one. She said that she would go that route again. Hope this is helpful!! - belle421  14.4 #5777 4:19PM

as a retired travel agent I always say to call Disney travel or use a local travel agent they will get you the best deal..as for the rides if you can get to early morning and do Peter Pan and such early you will have less time in line...also if you cant do that I find going counter clockwise in the park is alot faster you are going oppsite of everyone else... - dawna  286.9 #688 4:27PM

We alway use the Name Your Own Price feature on the Priceline website and get a room for $35 - $40. There's usually some form of continental breakfast and we pack an air mattress for the kids in case we only get one bed. It may not be deluxe, but we're not making the trip just to sleep! - deejayque  218.3 #1379 4:33PM

Where did you get your degree? In deaf stidies? - MauiIslandPrincess  4.3 #12451 3:57PM

I agree with @deejay if your on a budget name your own price is a great way to go, your only in the room to sleep so save the money. - donnievegas  1127.5 #73 4:14PM