Planning a Disney vacation can feel overwhelming, but this 15-step checklist breaks it down into simple steps to make your trip stress-free and magical. Here’s a quick summary of what you’ll need to do:
- Set Basics: Choose your travel dates, decide on Walt Disney World or Disneyland, and set your budget.
- Book Essentials: Buy park tickets, make park reservations, and arrange transportation.
- Use Tools: Download the My Disney Experience app to manage reservations, wait times, and dining bookings.
- Secure Dining: Research restaurants, use tools like MouseNotifier for alerts, and book at 6:00 AM ET, 60 days in advance.
- Plan Daily Schedule: Prioritize attractions, book Lightning Lane passes, and schedule shows or character meet-and-greets.
- Pack Smart: Bring essentials like comfy shoes, portable chargers, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Confirm Details: Double-check reservations, payment methods, and any special accommodations before your trip.
My Disney Travel Checklist | EVERYTHING I do before traveling to Disney World 🗒️
Step 1-3: Plan Your Trip Basics
The dates you choose, the park you visit, and your budget are the foundation of your Disney vacation. Once you’ve decided on these, you’re ready to start shaping your magical trip.
Step 1: Pick Your Travel Dates and Trip Length
Disney ticket prices generally start at around $150 but can climb during peak times. The quietest times to visit are from January 2nd to the week of Presidents’ Day, after Labor Day until Thanksgiving week, and the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. On the flip side, holidays and summer months bring the heaviest crowds.
Keep in mind that summers are warm and humid, while winters are mild, though occasional weather surprises can pop up.
"By using data compiled from recent years, Disney crowd calendars help us determine which theme parks will have the shortest and longest lines, to discover the best times to visit the parks for fewer crowds and beautiful weather. While not every traveler has the flexibility to plan their trip around the least-crowded dates, this can still be a valuable tool for all, as knowing what to expect will allow you to plan accordingly and help you to maximize your Disney experience." – Jaimie Michaels, MagicGuides Editor
Looking to save? Wednesdays are often the cheapest days to visit, while weekends usually come with higher price tags. For a mix of manageable crowds and good weather, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons – October through February (excluding holidays) or May. However, October has become increasingly busy, thanks to Disney’s popular Halloween events.
Step 2: Choose Walt Disney World or Disneyland
Deciding between Walt Disney World and Disneyland is all about matching the experience to your preferences and schedule. Walt Disney World spans over 30,000 acres, offering multiple parks, resorts, and dining options, while Disneyland is smaller, walkable, and perfect for shorter trips.
In Orlando, Walt Disney World boasts four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios), two water parks, over 25 on-site hotels, and fifteen character dining options. It’s designed for longer stays, with Magic Kingdom alone attracting over 17 million visitors annually. Animal Kingdom, at 580 acres, holds the title of the largest theme park in the world.
Meanwhile, Disneyland in Anaheim features two parks (Disneyland and California Adventure) and three on-site hotels. Despite its smaller size, Disneyland offers more rides – 53 compared to Walt Disney World’s 45 – and 30 unique attractions versus Walt Disney World’s 21. Its compact layout makes walking the main way to get around, which is ideal for shorter vacations.
Costs at both resorts can vary, but longer vacations at Walt Disney World may increase overall expenses. Disneyland’s on-site hotels tend to be pricier due to limited options, but their proximity can reduce transportation costs.
"Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland are cherished places for many guests despite how often they are ranked against each other. In my opinion, they both offer their own unique charm and joy to any Disney Resort vacation." – Lindsay Brookshier, Content Director of Mickey Visit
Special events might also influence your choice. Disneyland’s 70th anniversary celebration in 2025 and its holiday season entertainment (which doesn’t require separate tickets) are worth considering. On the other hand, Walt Disney World offers prepaid dining plans and a wider range of dining options.
Step 3: Set Your Budget
Once you’ve picked your destination, it’s time to nail down a budget. Family vacations to Disney can range from $4,500 to over $10,000, with major expenses coming from transportation, lodging, tickets, food, and extras. A recent study found that 24% of visitors even took on debt to fund their trips.
To save money, consider traveling during off-peak seasons when flights, hotels, and park tickets are often cheaper. You can also snag discounts by using Disney gift cards from places like Target (5% off with a RedCard) or Sam’s Club (nearly 4% off). If you’re staying multiple days, skipping the Park Hopper option can also cut costs. And don’t forget – bringing your own snacks and drinks is allowed, which can save a chunk of change.
For accommodations, Good Neighbor Hotels in Orlando are often more affordable than Disney-owned properties, and some Disney Value resorts can be comparable in price when factoring in transportation savings.
Dining plans require careful thought. The Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan costs about $59 per night for adults and $24 for kids (ages 3–9), while the full Disney Dining Plan runs around $98 for adults and $31 for kids per night. Compare these costs to paying out-of-pocket to see which is the better deal for your family.
"Tickets, resort hotels, dining, and more are variably priced by date, so check calendars for the cheapest times." – Todd and Erica, Avid Disney Fans
Finally, track your spending and look for vacation packages that bundle tickets, hotels, and dining for added savings. Be sure to ask about special offers or limited-time deals when booking.
Step 4-6: Book Your Trip Components
Lock in the key elements of your Disney vacation. Once these steps are done, you’ll be ready to fine-tune the rest of your plans.
Step 4: Buy Theme Park Tickets and Make Park Reservations
To get the best prices and availability, aim to buy your tickets about six months ahead of your trip. Starting in January 2025, a standard one-day adult ticket at Walt Disney World begins at $119, while tickets for kids (ages 3 to 9) start at $104. During peak times like holidays, prices can climb to $159 or more, plus tax. If you’re planning multiple days, consider multi-day tickets – they can bring the cost down to about $58 per day for a 10-day pass. Keep in mind, ticket prices vary by park. For instance, Magic Kingdom tickets range from $144 to $199, while Disney’s Animal Kingdom tickets run between $119 and $174.
Skip buying tickets at the gate. Ordering online is not only more convenient but can save you money. If you’re booking a vacation package that includes hotel accommodations, you might snag even better deals. Discounts are also occasionally available for Florida residents and military families.
Once you’ve purchased your tickets, reserve your park days immediately. Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland require a park reservation in addition to a valid ticket. Check availability online, especially during popular times like spring break, summer, Halloween, and Christmas, as parks can fill up fast. For busy seasons, it’s smart to finalize your tickets and reservations at least 60 days ahead. After purchasing, link your tickets to your My Disney Experience account to complete the reservation process. Remember, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Step 5: Book Your Transportation
Plan your transportation in advance. Whether you’re looking into third-party shuttles, rental cars, or rideshare services, booking ahead can save you time and money. Since Disney’s Magical Express service ended in January 2022, you’ll need to arrange your own airport transportation. Expect rideshare or taxi fares to range from $10 to $45 each way.
If you’re staying at a Disney resort, take advantage of their complimentary transportation options. These include buses, the monorail, the Skyliner, and boats, which connect resorts, parks, and Disney Springs. Keep in mind, though, that these services can take 60 to 90 minutes during busy times. If you’re staying off-site, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are a practical choice, typically costing $10 to $20 per trip. For a premium option, Disney’s Minnie Vans charge a $22 flat rate plus a per-mile fee and come with perks like Cast Member drivers, car seats, and closer drop-off points.
Renting a car offers flexibility but adds costs for rental fees, gas, and parking. During crowded times, such as park closures, you might find it quicker to grab a taxi, Uber, or Minnie Van for your return trip.
Step 6: Download and Set Up My Disney Experience App
Before your vacation, download the My Disney Experience app – it’s your all-in-one planning tool. The app helps you manage park reservations, dining bookings, Lightning Lane selections, and mobile food orders. It also provides real-time wait times and a detailed map to help you navigate the parks.
Make sure to link all your reservations by entering confirmation numbers. This way, your park tickets, hotel bookings, and dining plans are all in one spot. The app displays dates in the MM/DD/YYYY format and follows Eastern Time, so everything stays organized.
You can also set up your travel group by adding family members or friends. This allows you to make group reservations for Lightning Lane and dining directly from your phone. Spend some time exploring the app before your trip to familiarize yourself with its features – it’ll save you time and stress once you’re at the parks.
Step 7-9: Secure Your Dining Reservations
Booking dining reservations at Disney can feel like a competitive sport, but with some planning and tools, you can snag your dream dining spots without breaking a sweat.
Step 7: Research Disney Restaurants and Make Your Priority List
Disney offers a wide range of dining experiences, so start by researching and creating a priority list. Think about your group size, dietary preferences, and budget when narrowing down your choices. For larger groups, buffet-style restaurants are a smart pick since they allow everyone to eat what they want, when they want.
For character dining, Storybook Dining at Artist Point offers fantastic food paired with magical character interactions. Another great option is Cape May Cafe, which serves a charming breakfast with Minnie and friends and even features a kid-friendly buffet.
If you’re looking for top-rated dining experiences, consider Boma – Flavors of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This spot is known for its vibrant African marketplace vibe and dishes like butternut squash soup and Durban chicken. For a family-style meal, ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort delivers a laid-back atmosphere with multiple courses of grilled meats and sides.
"For large groups, some of the best dining options at Disney World are buffet-style restaurants. These allow everyone in your group to get exactly the food they want in precisely the quantity they want. Not to mention that immediately after arriving, you can be filling your plate."
– Dani Zoeller, Tasting Table
For something a bit different, entertainment dining options like the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort combine dinner with live performances. Meanwhile, Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom serves Thanksgiving-inspired meals that are perfect for sharing.
If you’re struggling to book a reservation for your entire party, split the group into smaller reservations at similar times and request to sit together when you check in. Also, consider dining at resort restaurants during off-peak hours for better availability.
Once you’ve nailed down your list, it’s time to set up alerts for cancellations using MouseNotifier.
Step 8: Set Up MouseNotifier for Dining Alerts
MouseNotifier is a game-changer when it comes to snagging hard-to-get dining reservations. This tool monitors Disney’s reservation system around the clock and sends you instant alerts via SMS and email when a spot opens up at your chosen restaurant and time. No more endless refreshing on Disney’s website!
Signing up is simple: choose your favorite restaurants, set your preferred dining times, and let the alerts roll in. MouseNotifier offers two pricing plans: $5 per individual alert or $15 for a monthly subscription.
"A total lifesaver! We got alerts for a couple of our favorite dining spots and were able to book without constantly monitoring the site ourselves. Thank you!"
– Jonathan Ulloa, Traveller
"Signing up for MouseNotifier: Disney Dining Alerts was a breeze, and the alerts came in right on time. Managed to snag a reservation at the most sought-after restaurant. Couldn’t be happier!"
– Marcus B, Traveller
This service is especially handy for catching last-minute openings as other guests cancel closer to their trip dates. Once you’ve set up your alerts, you’ll be ready for the next step: booking at the crack of dawn.
Step 9: Book Dining Reservations at 6:00 AM Eastern Time
Disney dining reservations open 60 days in advance, and timing is EVERYTHING. Reservations typically go live around 5:45 AM Eastern Time, so set your alarm and be ready to book by 6:00 AM. If you’re staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you can reserve dining for your entire trip (up to 10 days) starting 60 days before your check-in date.
Using the My Disney Experience app makes the process smoother. Make sure your credit card is saved in your account ahead of time, as Disney charges a $10 per person fee for no-shows or cancellations made within two hours of your reservation time.
Focus on booking the most popular restaurants first, like Be Our Guest, Chef Mickey’s, and Cinderella’s Royal Table – these fill up within minutes. If your top picks are unavailable, don’t lose hope. Keep checking the app for cancellations, especially as your trip gets closer. The Mobile Dine Walk-up List feature is also a great option for same-day availability at select restaurants. For Disney Springs dining, check OpenTable for additional reservation options.
Lastly, remember you can modify or cancel your reservations through the My Disney Experience app up to two hours before your scheduled time. With a bit of preparation and persistence, you’ll have your dining plans locked in and ready to go!
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Step 10-12: Plan Your Daily Park Schedule
Once your dining reservations are set, it’s time to dive into the specifics of your daily park schedule. A well-thought-out plan can make your Disney vacation smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 10: Create Your Daily Park Schedule
Start by crafting a realistic schedule that balances your priorities with the energy levels of your group. Aim for no more than 8 main activities per day: 3 must-visit attractions, 2 experiences, and 1 dining reservation.
To ensure everyone in your group has a great time, ask each family member to share their top picks. A simple ranking system can help you identify the attractions that matter most to everyone. For instance, in Magic Kingdom, favorites might include Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Haunted Mansion, while EPCOT could highlight Test Track and Spaceship Earth.
Don’t forget to build in a midday break. Many families find it helpful to return to their resort in the afternoon for some downtime, whether that’s a swim or just a chance to recharge. Balance high-energy rides with lighter activities like shows, parades, or character meet-and-greets to avoid feeling rushed.
If you’re new to Disney, it’s a good idea to stick to one park per day. Limiting park hopping saves travel time and reduces stress, giving you more time to enjoy each park fully.
Stay flexible! Use real-time wait time updates to adjust your plan as needed. Once your daily schedule is ready, it’s time to tackle wait times with Lightning Lane.
Step 11: Book Lightning Lane Selections
Cut down on wait times by booking Lightning Lane selections as soon as possible. Disney’s Lightning Lane system is a game-changer for busy days. The Multi Pass typically costs $15–$39 per person per day, while the Single Pass ranges from $7–$25 per person per ride.
For on-site guests, bookings open 7 days in advance, while off-site guests can book 3 days ahead. Focus on popular rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Avatar Flight of Passage, and Rise of the Resistance, as these tend to sell out quickly.
To maximize your time, prioritize attractions with the longest lines. With three or four well-chosen Lightning Lane reservations, you can significantly cut down your waiting time. Use the My Disney Experience app to modify your selections throughout the day – cancellations often open up earlier availability. If you’re park hopping, you can also adjust your bookings to match your updated plans.
Keep in mind that Lightning Lane is more valuable during peak seasons, like summer or Christmas week, when crowds are at their highest. During quieter times, you might not need it as much.
Step 12: Schedule Shows and Character Meet-and-Greets
Your schedule isn’t complete without adding shows and character meet-and-greets. These experiences bring a little extra magic to your Disney trip, so plan around fixed showtimes and character schedules. Check the My Disney Experience app for updated times and locations.
Add these to your itinerary, leaving enough time to move between attractions. For popular shows, make sure to build in extra time so you don’t miss out. Keep in mind that Lightning Lane isn’t available for character meet-and-greets, so be prepared for some waiting.
During special events like After Hours, character appearances may be more limited. If meeting characters is a top priority for your group, schedule these interactions during early entry periods when crowds are smaller.
Step 13-15: Final Trip Preparations
Now that your itinerary and bookings are squared away, it’s time to focus on the final details of your trip. These last steps will help ensure everything goes smoothly from start to finish.
Step 13: Pack Using a Disney Vacation Checklist
Start packing early to avoid any last-minute stress. Florida weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and check the forecast before you go. Toss in a few extra shirts and bottoms for unexpected spills or sudden weather changes. To save space and stay organized, consider packing outfits that mix and match and use packing cubes to separate your items.
Don’t forget the essentials! Bring portable chargers since outlets in the parks can be hard to find, a small first-aid kit with any necessary medications, and even a nightlight if you like extra lighting in your hotel bathroom. Disney World doesn’t sell gum, so pack your own if you need it. For families, zip-top bags can be a lifesaver – pack complete outfits (shirt, pants, undergarments, socks) in each bag to make mornings easier.
Lastly, prepare a carry-on with must-haves like a change of clothes for each person, extra socks and underwear, prescription medications, pajamas, and basic toiletries. This way, you’ll be covered if your luggage is delayed or misplaced.
Step 14: Confirm All Reservations and Payment Methods
About a week before your trip, double-check all your reservations – hotel, dining, and activities. Make sure everything is linked to your My Disney Experience account so it appears correctly in the app.
Keep an eye on your credit card for pending charges and verify the final amounts. If anything looks off, reach out to Disney’s customer support. Remember, reserving a dining table with a credit card doesn’t mean your bill will be charged automatically – it’s just to hold your spot.
If you’re traveling internationally, confirm with your bank that your credit cards will work in the U.S. It’s also a good idea to set up mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay as a backup. These steps will help ensure a smooth transition from planning to enjoying your trip.
Step 15: Arrange Special Accommodations if Needed
If you or someone in your party has specific needs, now’s the time to make sure everything is in place. Contact Disney Guest Relations to arrange for accessibility, dietary, or other special accommodations. For hotel or transportation requests, call 407-939-7807 (voice) or 407-939-7670 (TTY). If you’re staying at a Disney resort, mention any special requirements when booking your room.
Disney is known for accommodating dietary restrictions. When making dining reservations, you’ll often be asked about allergies or special dietary needs. If not, let the host or server know when you arrive so they can have a chef review the menu with you. For quick-service spots, you can ask at Guest Relations or directly at the restaurant. For more details, email [email protected] or visit Disney’s Special Dietary Requests webpage. If you need kosher meals, be sure to call 407-WDW-DINE at least 24 hours in advance.
Accessibility services are also widely available. Each park provides free booklets outlining services and facilities for guests with disabilities, which you can pick up at park entrances, resort front desks, or wheelchair rental locations. If your child’s stroller will be used as a wheelchair, stop by Guest Relations at City Hall to pick up a “stroller as wheelchair” tag. Service animals are welcome in most areas of the parks, provided they’re on a leash, and guests are allowed to bring their own food (as long as it’s not in glass containers or a safety risk). First Aid stations in the parks can securely store medications if needed. For more information about disability services, call Disney’s Disability Services at 407-560-2547 or email Disney Parks Disability Services.
Conclusion: Your Disney Vacation Planning Checklist Complete
You’ve wrapped up the 15 key steps to make your Disney vacation as smooth as possible. By covering all the bases – trip basics, core components, and final preparations – you’ve set yourself up for a stress-free experience.
From securing park tickets and reservations to locking in those dining reservations right at 6:00 AM Eastern Time, every detail has been handled. You’ve utilized tools like MouseNotifier for dining alerts, arranged transportation and accommodations, and finalized your Lightning Lane selections. Special accommodations are confirmed, and your My Disney Experience app is ready to act as your all-in-one planner, keeping everything organized and accessible.
Now, you’re ready to embrace the magic with everything in place for an unforgettable trip.
FAQs
How do I decide between visiting Walt Disney World and Disneyland for my vacation?
Choosing between Walt Disney World and Disneyland comes down to what kind of vacation you’re after. If you’re headed to Florida, Walt Disney World offers a sprawling resort experience with four theme parks, two water parks, and a variety of hotels. It’s perfect for longer stays and travelers looking for an all-encompassing adventure. Meanwhile, Disneyland in California, with its two parks conveniently within walking distance, delivers a cozier, nostalgic vibe. It’s a great option for shorter trips or those who prefer a simpler, classic Disney experience.
When deciding, think about how much time you have, your budget, and how far you’re willing to travel. For a huge resort packed with endless activities, Walt Disney World fits the bill. But if you’re after a more intimate and manageable Disney getaway, Disneyland might be just the ticket. Either way, you’re in for a magical time!
How can I use the My Disney Experience app to make planning my Disney vacation easier?
The My Disney Experience app is your go-to tool for making Disney vacation planning a breeze. Once you link your park tickets, hotel reservations, and dining plans in the app’s Future Plans section, everything you need is neatly organized in one spot.
With the app, you can check real-time ride wait times, join virtual queues, and manage Lightning Lane reservations to maximize your time in the parks. It also offers live park maps, entertainment schedules, and even mobile dining check-in, so you can easily navigate and adjust your plans as needed. These features help keep your trip running smoothly, letting you focus on enjoying the magic of Disney.
How can I increase my chances of getting hard-to-book dining reservations at Disney parks?
To snag those coveted dining reservations at Disney parks, timing is everything. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, you get a head start – reservations open 60 days in advance for your entire stay (up to 10 days). Make sure to use the My Disney Experience app to search for availability, and don’t hesitate to join waitlists if your preferred spot is fully booked.
For better odds, consider booking during off-peak times, like early morning or late evening meals. If you’re dining with a large group, try splitting into smaller parties to increase your chances of finding available tables. And don’t forget to check back closer to your visit – plans change, and last-minute openings often pop up. Staying persistent and flexible can make all the difference!
