As the name of my site suggests, I’m a planner. I love to plan. Especially Disney trips.
I plan our own trips. I help plan for others. I’ve even been known to plan trips that will never happen – my latest “If I could spend a year at Walt Disney World” plan, for example. (Surprisingly, I’d only have to win a small lottery in order to do it – not a mega lottery as I had anticipated. But I digress.)
When our Authorized Disney Travel Planner, Debbie Kuhns, entered the picture I was a little wary that I would get left out of the planning process. But that’s the neat thing about Debbie. She only plans as much as you’re willing to let her. Beyond that, she arms you with lots of great planning information.
Read on!
So, Debbie, how far out in advance should I start planning my Disney vacation?
Ideally, at least 6 months out so you’re able to make the hard dining reservations like Cinderella’s Royal Table, Chef Mickey or Be Our Guest. I’ve planned trips a couple of weeks ahead. You just have to be careful with your expectations. I think the bare minimum would be at least 2 months out so you can get the FastPasses you’d like. If you’re looking to budget, June is when the next year’s pricing comes out – 499 days in advance.
When do you recommend Park Hopper Tickets?
It’s really a personal thing. I always get a park hopper because I can’t stay still in one park a day. We always go early in the morning for one park, go back to the resort and nap and swim, then back out to another park at night.
When is the best time to go to avoid crowds?
Anymore, it’s always crowded! These days, it’s all about HOW crowded. My best advice is to avoid holidays. Everything is more expensive during the holidays – airline tickets, resort tickets, even park tickets. Weekend tickets are also more expensive. Sunday through Thursday tickets are cheaper if you can plan your trip then. Summer IS slowing down a bit. Especially near the end of the summer. I’m finding that the last week of August often has free dining. A big savings and an indicator that crowds are starting to thin.
Speaking of savings, what are some of your best “affordability” suggestions?
If you can go during value season, do it! Free dining offers are a great deal if you have more than 2 people in your party.
And value resorts are much cheaper than deluxe resorts. The family suites at All-Star Music are so nice! They fit 6 people. They have 3 queen beds, 2 bathrooms, a mini kitchenette. And they are similar pricing to 5 person rooms at Port Orleans Riverside, a moderate resort.
When you go, where you stay – these are all factors in what you can afford. Take advantage of the discounts. You know your vacation needs best. Weigh the pros and cons of where you stay, when you go and what discounts are available. It’s really a personal preference.
Stay tuned for more tips and Disney impressions from Debbie. In the meantime, if you need help booking your next Disney vacation contact her: click the following link – Debbie at Magical Journeys Travel or email her directly – disneydebk@comcast.net
