Planning a Walt Disney World vacation can feel overwhelming. With the right preparation, you can make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Understanding Disney’s policies and services ahead of time will help you secure dining reservations and book accommodations. Here’s everything you need to know to make your Disney vacation seamless.
Book Your Resort Early
Walt Disney World Resort hotels are filling up faster than ever. Booking early is key to securing your preferred accommodations.
Whether it’s due to increased demand or limited availability, resorts can book up months in advance.
- Even if you’re unsure about your exact dates, Disney’s flexible cancellation policy makes it easy to modify plans later.
- Booking early increases your chances of getting your top-choice resort and room type.
If you’re planning a last-minute trip, don’t panic. There are still rooms available, but you may need to be flexible with your resort choice.
Consider Disney Good Neighbor Hotels, which offer Disney perks at a lower price point.
Make Advance Dining Reservations (ADR)
Dining at Walt Disney World is an experience in itself. Many restaurants book up quickly, so securing your dining times in advance is essential.
- Reservations open 60 days before check-in. Popular spots like Space 220, Steakhouse 71, and Ohana fill up fast.
- If your preferred restaurant is unavailable, keep checking for cancellations. Many guests cancel within 24 hours to avoid no-show fees.
- Use the My Disney Experience app for walk-up availability and last-minute reservations.
Utilize Mobile Orders for Quick Service Dining
If you opt for quick-service meals, you must use the My Disney Experience app to make a mobile order. This app allows you to pre-order food at select locations, reducing wait times and ensuring you get your preferred meal options.
- Popular quick-service locations, like Woody’s Lunch Box, have peak times that fill up quickly.
- Order early to secure a preferred pick-up window, especially during busy lunch (12–1 PM) and dinner (6–7 PM) hours.
- For shorter wait times, consider off-peak dining hours, such as an early lunch or late dinner.
- New Walk-Up Waitlists: Some quick-service locations now allow guests to join a walk-up mobile waitlist through the My Disney Experience app.
Understanding Lightning Lane
- Lightning Lane (formerly FastPass+) is a paid option allowing guests to skip standby lines for select attractions.
- Individual Lightning Lane Selections are available for the most in-demand rides and can be purchased separately.
Researching in advance can help you determine which rides are worth purchasing Lightning Lane access for based on your family’s preferences.
Early Theme Park Entry & Extended Evening Hours
Disney Resort hotel guests continue to receive Early Theme Park Entry, which allows them to enter all four theme parks 30 minutes before the official park opening.
- Available to all Disney Resort hotel guests.
- It helps you get ahead on high-demand attractions before the general public arrives.
Guests staying at Deluxe Disney Resorts also benefit from Extended Evening Hours, which allow extra time in select parks on certain nights.
Additional Planning Tips for a Smooth Disney Vacation
Beyond the significant bookings, here are a few extra strategies to ensure a hassle-free trip:
- Check park hours and event schedules before your trip to plan efficiently.
- Bring a portable phone charger—you’ll use the My Disney Experience app frequently.
- Monitor ride refurbishment schedules to ensure your must-do attractions are open.
- Pack essentials, including comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and rain gear, to prepare for Florida weather.
Final Thoughts
A well-planned trip can make all the difference in your Disney World experience.
By booking early, securing park and dining reservations, and understanding key Disney services like Mobile Order and Lightning Lane, you’ll set yourself up for a magical vacation with less stress and more fun!
For more Disney tips and tricks, check out our ultimate Disney planning guide and packing checklist to ensure you don’t forget any essentials.
