The Best Way to Plan a Disney Vacation - Decide When You Are Going
Written by Nancy Bobby   
Sunday, 06 September 2009 14:49
Thinking about a trip to Walt Disney World, but wondering what is the best way to plan a Disney vacation? Want some basic information but don't know where to start?
by NancyBobby


Thinking about a trip to Walt Disney World, but wondering what is the best way to plan a Disney vacation? Want some basic information but don't know where to start?

Most folks who are planning their very first visit to Disney World find it to be a very overwhelming process, due to the excessive amount of information that is available. There is just so much to know and learn that it becomes hard to know where to start. As someone who has visited Disney World many times, the first piece of advice I always give is: Start by deciding when you want to go.

Your choice of the time of year for your Disney vacation will affect nearly everything else about it, including the cost. You will just pay more during some seasons than others. Now if you have school-age children, you may not have much of a choice...and alot of company: the majority of families visiting Disney World will be traveling during school vacations. It should be no surprise then that summer, Thanksgiving, Christmas/New Years, and spring/Easter breaks are the busiest times to visit, and so are also the most expensive. If you must travel during those times, then be ready for lodging to be more expensive than other times of the year. You certainly will find many options for accommodations in the Orlando area, but will also find more limited choices during peak times...so plan ahead to save!

Crowd levels are important to consider as well, as they can dramatically affect the enjoyment of a Disney World vacation. If you hate crowds, and don't like standing in line, do not plan a visit during peak times! It is a surefire recipe for a miserable, rather than magical vacation!

Don't overlook the weather factor. Most people are well aware of how hot and humid Florida can be in the summer: if you are visiting Disney World during this time of year, be prepared to go early, take mid-day breaks, and relax in the pool in the afternoon. And if you just can't handle heat and humidity at all, choose another season to go. Winter months, on the other hand, can be very unpredictable: a glorious and sunny day in the 70s one day, and 30s at night the next. Visiting during the winter requires a different kind of pre-planning, with special attention paid to packing wisely before you leave home!

The very best way to plan a Disney vacation starts with a realistic appraisal of your family's schedule, considering what everyone likes, doesn't like, and can handle, and then scheduling your vacation accordingly.

Information:

Nancy Bobby has been planning Disney World trips (and saving money on them) for over ten years. Visit The Affordable Mouse Blog to learn the planning and money-saving ideas she has discovered over the years and receive your free Bonus Guide with tips for an affordable Disney family vacation.