No matter what I do the trips always end up around 5000.
Free dining, AP's, YES tickets, Renting points, Discount codes.. still ends up at 5000. However what I do with that 5000 is the key.
We always find a way to go during value season. If we save money on tickets we stay at a nicer resort. If we save money by getting YES tickets and renting DVC points we stay longer or get the deluxe dining plan. The trip is always 10 days or more, and we usually throw in Universal as well.
We got AP's this year for Disney and Universal, so with that savings we are bringing dd's friend and paying for everything for her.
The 5000 covers everything for four of us.. and this time 5 of us. Tickets for Disney and Universal, onsite at Universal, room at Disney, food, tips, souvenirs, flight, rental car. I could spend less on some trips, but that seems to be the benchmark and I manage to spend right up to it most of the time.
