Planning a trip to Disney World can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to make it a breeze for you! As a mom of 6 who travels both with my kids and solo, I’ve gathered plenty of tips and tricks to ensure your Disney vacation is magical no matter the size of your family or the ages of your kids. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide for planning a trip to Disney World.

Start with a Budget and Length of Stay

The first step in planning a trip to Disney World is to establish your budget and determine how long you’ll stay. This initial planning will help you make informed decisions as you move forward. Keep in mind, though, that your budget might need some adjustments along the way.

For the length of your stay, consider that Disney World has four main parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. To get the most out of your trip, plan at least one day per park. Additionally, factor in a rest day at your resort to recharge and explore other areas Disney has to offer, like Disney Springs or the water parks.

For reference, my family of 8 did 8 park days so we had time to explore each park twice. However, due to time constraints, we didn’t have a built-in rest day, we just knew some days would be shorter in the parks.

Utilize a Travel Agent When Planning a Trip To Disney World

A travel agent can be an invaluable resource when planning a trip to Disney World. They are knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the parks, resorts, dining options, and more. Best of all, their services are typically free to use! However, it’s essential to research and find a reputable agent. Look for someone with experience in Disney vacations and positive reviews from other families.

My family worked with Bethany Grace Travels. Even though we stayed off-property and she only booked our tickets, she was extra helpful with guides and resources.

Choose Your Accommodation: Hotel vs. Airbnb

Next, you’ll need to decide where to stay. Should you choose a hotel on Disney property or an Airbnb nearby? This decision will largely depend on your budget and personal preferences. Staying on Disney property offers several perks, including early park entry, free transportation to and from the parks, and immersive Disney theming. Many people will argue that the best thing to do when planning a trip to Disney World is to stay at a Disney hotel.

If you decide to stay on Disney property, consider your budget and don’t overthink it. I have seen many people ask and go back and forth over hotel options. There are about 25 hotels to choose from, after all! All Disney resorts have their pros and cons, so choose one that fits your vibe.

Disney resorts are categorized into value, moderate, and deluxe. Value resorts are budget-friendly and offer basic amenities, moderate resorts provide a balance of comfort and cost, and deluxe resorts offer luxury and extra perks. While I haven’t visited them all (yet!), you can check out my room tour recommendations and compare options.

For those with tighter budgets, staying off-property can be a great alternative. There are many hotels and vacation rentals near Disney World that offer comfort and convenience at a lower cost. I also have a YouTube video that covers the benefits of staying off-property, which you can find here.

For my family, staying off-property was best option. We didn’t want to feel crammed in a space and worry about waking the baby. We also stayed with the grandparents and having a 6-bedroom house rental meant my husband and I could take a night out.

Book Your Hotel Room and Park Tickets

Once you’ve chosen your accommodation and booked your hotel room, the hardest part is done! Next, you’ll need to purchase your park tickets. Disney offers various ticket options, including single-day tickets, multi-day tickets, and park hopper tickets. Choose the option that best fits your plans and budget.

Research the Parks When Planning a Trip to Disney World

With your hotel and tickets sorted, it’s time to dive into researching each park. Familiarize yourself with the attractions, shows, and dining options available. Consider your family’s interests and set priorities for what you want to experience. Remember, you can’t do it all in one trip, so focus on the must-dos for your family.

Check the height requirements for rides, especially if you have little ones. This information will help you plan your day and manage expectations. Knowing which rides your kids can go on will save you time and avoid disappointment.

Start Walking

Disney World involves a lot of walking, so it’s crucial to prepare in advance. Start walking regularly to build stamina, especially if you have young children who will be in strollers. This practice will help them get used to being in a stroller for extended periods.

Also, test out your shoes and clothing during these walks. Ensure your shoes are comfortable and won’t cause blisters. The last thing you want is to discover an outfit chafes or shoes blister on a 12-hour Disney day.

Create a Countdown Chain

Building excitement for the trip is part of the fun of planning a trip to Disney World! Create a countdown chain with your kids to help them visualize how long until the trip. Each day, they can remove a link, bringing them closer to departure. This activity not only builds anticipation but also helps young children grasp the concept of time.

Additional Tips for Planning a Trip to Disney World

1. Dining Reservations: Book dining reservations as early as possible, especially for popular restaurants. Disney allows dining reservations 60 days in advance for on-property guests.
2. Skip the Lines: Take advantage of Disney’s ride reservation systems like Multipass Lightning Lanes. Research how they work and plan which attractions to prioritize. They can be a bit confusing, but are gold for saving time in lines. Because, time is money right?!
3. Pack Wisely: Make a checklist of essentials to bring, including sunscreen, comfortable shoes, snacks, and a portable phone charger. For more packing tips, check out my blog post on Disney packing essentials.
4. Download the My Disney Experience App: This app is a lifesaver for managing your trip. You can book Lightning Lanes, check wait times, view maps, and mobile order food.

Planning a trip to Disney World is an exciting adventure in itself. With a bit of research and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to creating magical memories with your family. Happy planning, and see you at the parks!

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