By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: Disney does not have a transferable points program, and park tickets are essentially always cash, but the two biggest costs around a Disney trip, the flights and the hotel, can be covered with points. The key move is using points-friendly hotels near the parks, especially the Marriott-affiliated hotels at Walt Disney World, plus miles for the flights.
What points can and cannot do
There is no way to transfer points to Disney for tickets, and on-property Disney hotels are cash, so do not expect to book the parks themselves with points. What you can do is eliminate the flights and the lodging with miles and hotel points, which are often the largest line items, leaving mainly tickets and food to pay in cash. That alone can save a family a fortune. See transferable points.
The hotel play
At Walt Disney World, the Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve are Marriott hotels inside the resort, bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points, with Disney perks and walking or boat access to two parks, the best points option for an on-site feel. Beyond those, many Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG hotels sit minutes from Disney World and Disneyland and book with points. See Marriott Bonvoy guide and Orlando hotels on points.
The flights and the rest
Cover the flights to Orlando or Anaheim with transferable points or an airline program, booking early for a family since you need several seats. Pay tickets and food on a card that earns well so the cash you do spend still racks up points for next time. The result is a Disney trip where points carry the flights and the room. See booking awards for a group.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use points for Disney tickets?
No. Disney has no transferable points program and park tickets are essentially always cash. What points can cover are the flights and the hotel, which are usually the biggest costs of a Disney trip.
What is the best hotel to book with points at Disney World?
The Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve are Marriott hotels inside the resort, bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points, with Disney perks and easy access to two parks. Many other chain hotels near the parks also book with points.
How do I get to Disney on points?
Cover the flights to Orlando or Anaheim with transferable points or an airline program, and book early because a family needs several award seats on the same flight. Then pay tickets and food on a rewarding card.
Is it worth using points for a Disney trip?
Yes, because points can erase the flights and hotel, often the largest costs, leaving mainly tickets and food in cash. Using a Marriott hotel inside Disney World and miles for the flights saves a family a lot.
Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. Every card is ranked by what it actually returns, with all points valued at a flat 1 cent and offers verified against issuer sources. About the author.
