Planning a Disney vacation can seem overwhelming, however it does not have to be. Here are 10 tips and things to know when starting to plan a Disney World trip, especially if your not sure where to start. Happy Planning!
1. When To Go
When is the best time to go to Disney World is a question asked often. It really comes down to when you can go, as any time of the year can be magical. Do know: the yearly event dates at Disney World and Walt Disney World weather by month.
2. How Long To Stay
Depending how far you need to travel to Disney your travel days may or may not be productive. Therefore, with one day per Main Theme park and 2 travel days, it is a minimum of 6 days for a Disney Vacation. Read more on this topic. Disney entices guests to stay longer with cheaper park tickets per day, the longer you stay.
3. On-Site Vs. Off-Site
Staying on-site versus off-site comes up often in discussion. Personally, the benefits of staying on-site outweigh savings off-site. Disney Resorts offer guests complimentary transportation to the parks, water parks and Disney Springs, the Magical Express for those flying, early Fastpass+ booking, Early Magic Hours and incredible Resort theming immersing you in the Disney bubble for your stay.
4. Disney Resorts
If you decide to stay on site, things to consider are where to stay, your budget and group size. Disney offers Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts (in order of least to most expensive). Those with groups of 4 (+ one child under 3) or less can find the most budget-friendly rooms at Disney’s All Star Value Resorts (Music, Movies, Sports) and Pop Century. Read, Disney’s Top 3 Value Resorts with Pros & Cons. For group of 5 or more, learn options for groups of 5 or more at Disney World Resorts.
5. Theme Park Tickets
How many days do you plan on spending in the parks? I recommend a minimum of 4, for one day at each park. Guests may enter, leave and re-enter the same park in one day. However, unless guests purchase Park Hopper they are limited to one day per day. This brings up the question of To Park hop or not to park hop?
6. Disney Dining Plans
Disney Dining Plans allow guests to pre-pay for their food prior to their vacation. Guests are then given meal and snack credits to use as they please, they are credited all at once allowing you to choose how to redeem. Dining Plan has 3 levels to choose, A Quick Service Plan, Standard Disney Dining Plan and Deluxe. Learn more about Disney Dining Plans.
7. Fastpass+ Selections
Guests staying at a Disney Resort may book their Fastpass+ selections 60 days out from their arrival day (+ up to 10 days after). Guests staying off-site have to wait until 30 days out. Learn the absolute Best Fastpass+ selections at Disney World.
8. Advanced Dining Reservations
Guests may book advanced dining reservations up to 180 days before your arrival date (for up to a 10 days in advance from then). Advanced Dining Reservations are a must for the most popular restaurants at Disney World. Learn hardest to get Advanced Dining Reservations. If there are restaurants you really want, mark the 180 day on your calendar and be ready at 6am (EST) to book ADRs online or at 7am (EST) when the phone lines open for ADR.
Learn more about Disney Dining.
9. Memory Maker
Memory Maker allows guests to pre-pay for all their photos on their Disney Vacation. This includes ride photos, PhotoPass photographer photos, Disney Springs PhotoPass Studio and more. Memory Maker costs $169 if purchased in advance. Read 7 Reasons why Memory Maker is worth it.
10. Packing
Packing for Disney is part of the fun, but it can get overwhelming. Do not forget these 25 packing essentials. Consider packing snacks to save on food expenses. For those traveling with children, packing Tinkerbell gifts can save on souvenir expenses.
Bookmark this page: Ultimate Packing List for Disney World.
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.