How to choose the right Disney World vacation package for your family!

Are you thinking of taking your family to Walt Disney World? Confused on how to get started? Check out my step-by-step guide!

Decide how long you want to go for.

The most popular package is a 7-night stay with a 5-day basic park ticket. That allows you ample time in the parks and also some down time for relaxing, swimming, etc. Most people will do two days at the Magic Kingdom, since there is so much to do there, then one day at each of the three remaining parks- Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios, but you can of course customize the trip to your needs.

Choose which parks you will visit.

There are great things in every park that will appeal to your family:

Magic Kingdom has princesses, Dumbo, Space Mountain, TRON, Buzz Lightyear, Pirates of the Caribbean, and much more.

Hollywood Studios is Star Wars, Toy Story Land, and lots of live shows and characters.

Animal Kingdom is Avatar, Lion King and Finding Nemo musical shows, a safari ride, and lots of animals.

And Epcot has Guardians of the Galaxy, Finding Nemo, Ratatouille, the Frozen ride, Moana attraction, and it is the only place to meet Anna and Elsa. Plus, you have all the countries to explore.

Decide where to stay.

When traveling, do you like luxurious accommodations, prefer a budget option to save money, or something in between?

Deluxe level accommodations are perfect for families who like to spend more time at the resort and utilize the amenities.

Moderate level accommodations have some amenities but a lower price point than deluxe.

Value accommodations give you everything you need while saving some money, perfect for those who spend the majority of their vacation time on the go and only need a place to sleep and shower.

There are lots of perks for staying at a Disney resort!

• Early Park Entry every day.
• Transportation to all the parks- no need to rent a car.
• Early access to table service restaurant reservations.
• Disney Dining Plan- it makes paying for meals super easy and convenient, and it can save you money!
• Early access to Lightning Lane booking.
• Room charging privileges.
• Discounts on food and merchandise at Disney Springs, plus free mini golf vouchers.
• Ease and convenience! (Especially if you have little ones and want midday breaks.)

Is a Dining Plan right for your family?

Dining plans are a great way to pre-pay for most of your food and you can save some money as well. There are two dining plans available. The Disney Dining plan is a mix of table meals, quick meals, and snacks. The Quick Service plan is all quick meals and snacks. When you add a dining plan, you come pretty close to an all-inclusive experience. Plus, you’re locking in your food costs and don’t need to worry about price increases.

Utilize the services of a travel professional who specializes in Disney Destinations. (That’s ME!)

• Help you decide when to go, where to stay, what ticket is right for you, and if a dining plan is beneficial.
• Keep a planning timeline and check list and make sure everything is taken care of and nothing is forgotten.
• Help you decide where to eat and book those dining reservations for you.
• Help you decide which Lightning Lane selections to pre-book and take care of booking them for you.
• Constantly watch for any promotions Disney releases and apply them to your package if it qualifies.
• Set up airport transportation, stroller/scooter rental, and/or car rental, if needed.
• Make sure you understand Disney technology including My Disney Experience, Lightning Lanes, as well as the Disability Access Pass, if needed.
• Create a customized itinerary and park plan based on your family’s specific needs.
• Concierge level service during the entire planning process and while traveling. If you have a question at any time, I’m your go-to.
• All this and MUCH more, at no extra cost to you! Disney pays me, so you don’t have to!

Deposit Information:

Secure your vacation package with a $200 deposit, which deducts from the total cost of the package. You can make payments if you’d like, otherwise the remainder is due 30 days prior to arrival.

Cancellation Policy:

Disney’s standard cancellation policy is full refund if cancelled at least 30 days prior to arrival, a full refund less a $200 fee if you cancel between 29 and 2 days prior to arrival, and if you cancel the day prior or day of, no refund.

Planning timeline:

• ASAP: Reach out to Fairytale Journeys by Stephanie to book your vacation package!
• 4-5 months prior: Book airfare and airport transportation. Book stroller and/or scooter rental. Purchase Magic Bands.
• 2-3 months prior: Plan out the park days. Choose restaurants and book dining reservations. Add Memory Maker photo package.
• 30 days prior: Add travel insurance and make final payment.
• 3 weeks prior: Plan out your park days and decide on Lightning Lanes.
• 2 weeks prior: Start packing. Set up a grocery delivery. (If you want one.) Order any last-minute things from Amazon.
• 1 week prior: Book Lightning Lanes. (Resort guests only. Off-site must wait until 3 days prior.)
• 24 hours prior: Check in for your flight.
• Day of: Be sure you’ve packed any medications you need. Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to your flight departure time. Have the best time EVER!
• After trip: Download your Memory Maker photos and start planning your next trip!