5. Return trips

Where annual passes truly show their value is for families who can make more than one trip during the year. If you live close enough to take three or four long weekends, your annual pass will more than pay for itself. But even if you can only manage an annual visit, see if it would be possible to schedule next year’s trip for just before this year’s pass expires. Two seven to ten day trips on a single annual pass mark a tremendous savings over buying two sets of tickets.

6. Passholder-exclusive perks

Passholder perks encompass a vast array of bonuses that add both tangible and intangible value to an annual pass. Passholder-only special events, the opportunity to ride on one of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras floats, discounts on recreational activities and water park admissions, and special pricing for hard ticketed events are just a few of the extra perks for annual passholders. In addition, a changing lineup of monthly bonus perks make annual passes especially enticing for those whose schedules are flexible enough to take advantage of them.

7. Monthly payment options

If you happen to have a Florida address, you can purchase a Walt Disney World annual pass on a monthly payment schedule. Although you must make a down payment of $112 per pass (2015 pricing), this option makes annual passes much more affordable for many families.

Universal Orlando extends the monthly payment option to all visitors, though Florida residents pay a bit less. The down payment varies depending on the type of pass and whether or not you live in Florida, but the ability to break up payments over a year makes this an attractive option.

In both cases, you will pay the same price for your pass whether you pay up front or take advantage of the monthly payment option. There is no interest, loan origination fee, or other add-on. Just remember that the person who will foot the bill must appear in person to sign the contract, so this might not be a solution for parents sending their teens on vacation with another family.

Whether or not to buy an annual pass is a complex decision that should be weighed against your family’s budget, normal vacation patterns, and typical spending while on vacation. What makes perfect sense for another family might be entirely wrong for you. Take the time to sit down and weigh out your options before committing to a decision.

If you are still unsure, consider buying an annual pass for one person in your party. Use that person’s pass to book your hotel stay, obtain discounts, and look more closely into the available perks. This can help you decide whether annual passes are the best choice without the full financial commitment of buying for everyone. Should you decide later to take the plunge, you can upgrade your tickets during your trip, subject to certain limitations.

Do you have an annual pass to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando? How far away do you live from the parks? What made you decide to make the investment? Share your thoughts in the comments!