I know I'm in the minority here because I have never stayed on-site. I'm not one to be in my hotel room for any real length of time - I'd rather be in the park, swimming, shopping, etc. For me, it's not worth the difference in money to stay on-site. I've heard all the great benefits you get, especially using Disney transport, but I'm a budget girl at heart.
Are you driving or flying in? If you have a car, I would definately recommend staying off-site. Prices are really reasonable - most nights a double room is under $50.00, plus a lot of hotels have free breakfasts, free shuttles, etc. I've stayed several times at Magic Castle on I-192 in Kissimmee - clean rooms with refrigerators, microwaves, free continental breakfast & shuttle to Disney. Small swimming pool, small play area, bbq grills, etc. A double room is usually $25-45 a night.
Hope this helps - I'm with you though, I'd rather stay a week off-site than a few days on-site.
