National Plan for Vacation Day is the perfect reminder to start dreaming up your next Disney vacation! With so many destinations, resorts, and experiences to explore, planning is an exciting opportunity to talk through ideas and imagine what your trip could look like with friends or family.
The best part? You don’t have to plan everything at once. By starting with a few key decisions, you can ease into the planning process and build a Disney vacation that feels fun, manageable, and full of excitement from the very beginning. Here are the basics to get you started.
Choose the Right Type of Disney Vacation for Your Travel Style
One of the most important first steps in Disney vacation planning is deciding what kind of trip you want to take. Not all Disney vacations are the same, and choosing the right type sets the tone for your entire experience.
If you love nonstop fun and iconic attractions, a theme park vacation might be the perfect fit. Looking for something a little more different? With Disney Cruise Line, dining, entertainment, and relaxation are all handled the moment you step onboard.
Prefer a slower, more relaxed pace? Resort-style destinations, like Aulani in Hawaii or Disney’s Vero Beach and Hilton Head resorts, blend Disney service with relaxing days by the water. Enjoy beautiful beachside settings, leisurely activities, and the kind of laid-back vacation where you can soak up the sun and still experience a touch of Disney magic.
And if you’re craving something new, international Disney destinations add a sense of adventure while still delivering that signature Disney magic.
Think about what matters most: pace, activities, relaxation, or exploration, and use those priorities to guide your decision.
Best Time to Visit Disney: Crowd Levels, Weather, and Events
Every Disney vacation is magical in its own way, and when you choose to travel can help tailor the experience to what matters most to you. Many factors like crowd levels, weather, and seasonal events all play a role in shaping your experience.
Choosing when to visit can really shape your trip, and guests who have more flexibility with timing can check the ticket calendar to find days with ticket options that work best for them. During non peak times of the year, you might find shorter waits for popular attractions.
And when festivals roll around, you’ll discover limited‑time entertainment, treats, and experiences that make your visit feel extra special. Picking the season that matches your vibe can help you soak up more of what you love and make the most of what you spend.
Having some flexibility with your travel dates can make planning feel easier and help you create the kind of Disney vacation you’re looking for.
planDisney Pro Tip
- “My top value tip for a Disneyland vacation is to plan it around special promotions or discounted dates, if possible. Disneyland recently released new promotions for military families that I am eager to take advantage of. I see many more trips in our future this year because of the promotion. ” – Karmeen M.
How to Choose the Best Disney Resort for Your Vacation
Where you stay is part of the magic! Your resort can set the tone for your Disney vacation, from the excitement of getting to the parks to the relaxing moments at the end of the day. Choosing the right one helps make every part of your trip feel enjoyable and special.
Think about what will make your trip feel easier and more comfortable, whether that’s being close to the parks, having convenient transportation options, or enjoying on-site dining and recreation.
Your budget, travel style, and how much downtime you plan to have can all help guide your Disney Resort choice. You can head to the Disney Parks YouTube channel to see full resort and room tours to get an idea of which resort you want to stay at next.
planDisney Pro Tip
- “Rest is an absolute must when traveling with little ones. Whether it’s a mid-afternoon nap back at the hotel or some relaxing time in a quieter corner of the parks, little ones and caregivers alike need a break from the hustle and bustle that a Disney vacation can offer.” – Scott S.
What to Book in Advance When Planning a Disney Vacation
Understanding what to book ahead of time is one of the most helpful parts of Disney vacation planning. Booking early can help you lock in your plans and reduce stress as your trip approaches.
This often includes tickets or cruise reservations, which secure your travel dates. Depending on your destination, you may also need to plan for park access or reservations. Popular dining locations and special experiences tend to fill up quickly, so reserving those in advance can help you enjoy the experiences you’re most excited about.
Not everything needs to be planned ahead, but knowing the basics helps set expectations.
planDisney Pro Tip
- “For first-timers headed to Disney World, I always recommend downloading the MyDisneyExperience app and familiarizing themselves with Disney World’s transportation system ahead of time. When you show up prepared, you minimize stress and maximize the magic! This can also include booking Advance Dining Reservations, researching rides and height requirements, and securing Lightning Lanes ahead of time, depending on their travel goals.” – Allison F.
How Your Travel Party Affects Disney Vacation Planning
Who you’re traveling with has a big impact on how you plan your Disney vacation. First-time visitors may want a simpler itinerary, while families with kids often prioritize convenience, flexibility, and downtime. Adults-only trips may focus more on dining, festivals, and slower-paced experiences.
There’s no one-size-fits-all Disney vacation. Let the needs, interests, and energy levels of your travel party guide your planning decisions.
planDisney Pro Tip
- “My best tip for traveling with tweens and/or teens is to get them involved in the trip planning. Even if it’s something small, like asking what attraction is a must-do or which treat is a must-try, by including them in the process, they will be more invested in the trip. I have done this with my daughters and it has led to such magical memories.” – David Q.
For more help making your Disney vacation planning easier, we’re here for you! Visit planDisney.com to ask your questions and get personalized tips from our knowledgeable panelists – whether you’re deciding where to stay, picking the perfect dining, or planning your park days.
And for even more helpful planning advice and fun insights, stop by @planDisneyPanel on Instagram. We can’t wait to help you make your vacation feel effortless from start to finish!
Panelists receive compensation for their participation on the planDisney panel.
