Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is exciting—but it can also feel a little overwhelming. With so many things to think about (tickets, rides, hotels, food...), it’s hard to know where to begin.

This guide will walk you through the basics of vacation planning Disney in a way that’s simple, clear, and family-friendly—so you can spend less time stressing and more time looking forward to the magic.

Animal Kingdom — **There’s so many things to think about**

Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Go

When you visit can make a big difference in your trip. Some months are less crowded and easier to manage—especially with kids.

Here’s a quick guide:

✅ Best times to go: January, early February, late August, and September
🚫 Busiest times: Spring Break, Thanksgiving, and late December

Pro tip: Check the Disney ticket calendar—prices are usually higher on busy days, so going during a slower week can also save you money.

Step 2: Decide Where to Stay

Where you stay affects your whole trip. Disney has on-site resorts that fit all kinds of budgets:

Value Resorts – Great for families looking to save
Moderate Resorts – A nice balance of price and comfort
Deluxe Resorts – Close to the parks, with top amenities

All Star Movies — Disney’s All Stars Movies Resort

Staying on Disney property includes free transportation, early park entry, and more. But if you’re looking for more space or lower prices, off-site hotels and vacation homes are worth considering too.

Step 3: Buy Park Tickets and Learn About Lightning Lanes

There are two main types of Disney World tickets:

1 Park Per Day – A simple way to enjoy one park each day
Park Hopper – Lets you visit more than one park in a day

Remy's Ratatouille Adventure — Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure

To save time and avoid long lines, Disney offers Lightning Lanes. These let you reserve return times for popular rides so you don’t have to wait in the regular standby line.

There are two options:

Lightning Lane Multi Pass – Gives you access to multiple Lightning Lanes per day (great for planning a smooth park day)
Lightning Lane Single Pass – Used for a few of the most popular rides that require a separate purchase

Using Lightning Lanes wisely can save your family hours of waiting—and give you more time to explore and enjoy the parks.

Step 4: Plan Your Park Days

Planning ahead helps your days go smoothly. You don’t need a strict schedule, but knowing your must-dos each day is a huge help.

Tips for easy park planning:

Pick which park you’ll visit each day
Choose 2–3 must-do rides or shows
Look at parade/fireworks times
Leave room for breaks and snacks

Using a sample itinerary can help you get the most out of each day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Festival of Fantasy parade at Magic Kingdom

Step 5: Reserve Your Meals

Dining at Disney is part of the fun! From character meals to themed restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Some restaurants fill up quickly, so it’s smart (and essential) to book ahead.

You can start making dining reservations 60 days before your trip.

💡 Helpful hint: It’s easier to cancel or change a reservation later than to grab one last minute. Book early if you can!

Step 6: Pack Smart

Packing the right things can make a big difference in your day. Comfort is key—Disney days are long and involve a lot of walking.

Don’t forget:

Comfy walking shoes
Sunscreen and hats
Reusable water bottles
Portable phone charger
Ponchos or an umbrella
Favorite snacks (yes, you can bring food!)

Traveling with little ones? A stroller—even for older toddlers—can be a big help.

💡 Extra Tips for a Magical Trip

Download the My Disney Experience app to manage plans, check wait times, mobile order food, and use Lightning Lanes
Take afternoon breaks—rest at the hotel or find a quiet place in the park
Focus on fun, not perfection—it’s okay to skip some things!

You’ve Got This!

Vacation planning Disney doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little prep and the right tools, your family can enjoy an unforgettable trip filled with magic, laughter, and great memories.

Need help putting it all together? I offer step-by-step planning guides, sample itineraries, and custom strategies to make your Disney trip as easy and magical as possible.

Let’s turn your dream vacation into a stress-free reality!