I never book a package.
First, I'm a faithful visitor to
www.mousesavers.com. I subscribe to the newsletter for updated info.
Hotel:
I always book with a AAA discount. Then I watch for discount codes released to the general public. I continue to watch for discounts right up until my date of travel. I've been able to save hundreds of dollars this way. Often this savings is enough to put toward plane tickets, gas and/or meals.
Tickets:
Some years we purchase the annual pass which allows us to access discounts on hotel rooms. When we use this method of savings, we book our travel for January and then go again in November or December so that we get two visits with the annual passes (rather than waiting for our usual January vacation time).
I get tickets using the link provided by MouseSavers in the newsletter. This usually gives a small additional savings at brokers such as Undercover Tourist. I watch for any news on upcoming ticket price increases and try to purchase before the additional cost goes in to effect.
Check with your Human Resources department. My parents worked for Eastman Kodak (they are now retired) and as a WDW sponsor, Kodak offered tremendous ticket savings to employees.
Meals:
We usually eat one sit down meal per day. I cash in reward points via American Express or MyPoints for gift certificates. For instance, I already have a $50 gift card for Rainforest Cafe to use on our September trip.
We keep a coffee can for spare change. We cash it in before our trips. We usually get around $80 that we can count on to put towards a few counter service meals.
Stock up on your own water bottles. Bring them if you are driving. Have them shipped to your hotel if you are flying. Purchase refillable mugs at your resort. This savings on beverages will add up quickly, plus you'll have a souvenir to take home with you.
I have so manhy ideas but alas, I've run out of room! Happy and magical savings!