subject: Disney Vacation Planning - 10 Things Your Need To Know [print this page] A Walt Disney World vacation is a memorable and magical experience for all the family whatever your ages, but planning a trip can be a little overwhelming. Here are ten top tips to get you started.
1. Know the best times to visit Disney World
If it is your first time visiting the Resort you should try and avoid peak times. The hotels are more expensive during the Christmas holiday season and at the height of summer and the parks are busier too. You can save money and have time to experience more of the parks and the attractions if you visit during the low seasons.
2. Know the best places to stay
The Disney World Resort itself has many different hotels to suit every taste and pocketbook. Staying on site has its benefits, including free Disney transportation to and from the parks as well as the Disney magic in the hotel itself.
If your budget won't stretch that far then there are hundreds of hotels and apartments in the surrounding areas as well as private rental houses complete with private pools. If you have a large family then a private rental will give you more space and also allow you to save money on meals as you can cook yourself.
3. Think about your travel plans
The nearest airport to Walt Disney World is Orlando International, but you might also choose to drive from nearby Sanford or Miami. Depending on where you live in America it might also be possible to drive to Disney World. You'll need to compare the travelling time to the money you would save to decide whether to fly or drive.
4. Pack like a pro
Shorts and tshirts are the accepted dress code so there's no need to pack your best outfits for your vacation. Weather in the summer can be hot and muggy so you'll want light weight clothes to wear. Add a light sweater or cardigan as it can be cool in the air conditioning.
Pack a poncho or an umbrella to keep the rain off if you're travelling in the wet season.
5. Get familiar with the parks in advance
If you turn up on your first day with no idea what you want to see or do you will waste valuable time. Before you even leave home you need to invest some time into learning about the parks and what they have to offer so that you can draw up a simple plan to make sure you get to see everything you want to.
6. Use the Fastpass system
This free system allows you to reserve a space in line for the top attractions so that you don't have to spend so long standing in the queue. Learn how to use it before you leave home and make the most of it during your vacation.
7. Set a shopping budget
It's far too easy to spend big during your vacation so set yourself a budget. You might want to make a list of items you see during your vacation and then on the last day decide which ones you actually need and want to buy.
8. Think about your dining options
If you are staying off site then you can save money by cooking your own meals or eating in local restaurants. If you are staying onsite then you have lots of World Class restaurants to choose from. Disney restaurants are very popular so you will need to make Advanced Dining Reservations before you even leave home to make sure you get a table.
9. Consider a rental car
If you are staying in a Disney World hotel then technically you don't need a car rental as the Magical Express service will take you from the airport to your hotel and then back again at the end of your stay. During your vacation you can use the free Disney transportation system of busses, boats and monorails to get around. A rental car is useful though if you want to check out the nearby shopping outlets or even venture over to Universal Studios or SeaWorld.
10. Have fun
The happier you are on your Disney World vacation the more fun you will have. Check your worries at the door and let loose and have a good time with your family and friends. Remember that Disney World will bring the child out in you if you'll let it.
Finally, remember that a Disney World vacation is unlike any other so you need to take some time to learn about what you can expect to see and do, make a list of what you want to do and then create a plan so that you can fit everything in.
