Are you in the very early stages of planning and just want a vague idea of how much to spend? This is the place for you! I have a lot of clients that would like a quote, but aren’t quite ready to book…. They just want a rough estimate of how much to save up for their trip. Hopefully this bit of information will help you out! Please note, this information does NOT replace an actual quote… it is just designed to give you a rough idea of what you can expect to spend on each portion of your trip. This information is accurate as of July 2021. HotelsThe first thing to think about is where you are going to stay. Each resort on Disney World property fits into one of four categories: Value, Moderate, Deluxe and Deluxe Villas. These resorts go in order of least to most expensive, respectively. Value ResortsThe value resorts are Pop Century, All-Star Music, All-Star Movies, All-Star Sports and Art of Animation. The values START at a cost of $160 per night, for a standard room at the All-Star Resorts. A few things to note about the value resorts… first, Pop Century costs a little bit more than the All-Stars (starting around $170), and Art of Animation costs more than Pop/the All-Stars. Second, the standard Little Mermaid rooms at Art of Animation are (almost) NEVER eligible for discounts/promotions. These rooms start at about $250 (without tax). Their family suites, are, however (starting around $550). Third, there are family suites at Art of Animation and at All-Star Music. These rooms hold up to 6 people (plus one additional child under the age of 3), and are more expensive than the regular rooms (they are more similar in price to moderate resort rooms). All other value rooms hold up to 4 people (plus one additional child under the age of 3). If you have between 5 and 8 people, it likely will be most economical to get two value resort rooms. Depending on how many adults and children are traveling together, it MIGHT be possible to guarantee adjoining rooms (such as if you have 4 children and 1 adult). If you have 3 children and 3 adults, however, this wouldn’t be guaranteed. It is possible to enter a request to be next to each other, though. Moderate ResortsThe moderate resorts are Port Orleans Riverside, Port Orleans French Quarter, Coronado Springs and Gran Destino Tower, Caribbean Beach Resort and the Cabins at Fort Wilderness Campground. The moderates START at about $300 per night, for a standard room. Port Orleans French Quarter is (almost) NEVER eligible for discounts/promotions. Additionally, the pirate rooms at Caribbean Beach look cool, but they are the farthest away from the main building/food court. Port Orleans Riverside and Caribbean Beach Resort each have rooms that will hold five people (plus an additional child under the age of 3). The rooms that hold five have two queen beds and a bunk-size pull down bed, which is designed for a child age nine and under. Since all children are different, this might work for a small 10 year-old, but it might not for a large eight year-old. The cabins are able to hold up to six people. Deluxe ResortsThe deluxe resorts are the Grand Floridian, Contemporary, Polynesian, Wilderness Lodge, Yacht Club, Beach Club, BoardWalk Inn, and Animal Kingdom Lodge. The deluxes START at a cost of $530 per night, for a standard room. These resorts have the biggest range of prices between them. Generally speaking, Animal Kingdom Lodge and Wilderness Lodge are usually the least expensive. The Grand Floridian, Contemporary and Polynesian are usually the most expensive. The Yacht Club, Beach Club and BoardWalk Inn are typically somewhere in between, in terms of price. Many of these rooms hold up to five people, plus an additional child under the age of three. These rooms often have a pull-out sofa, in addition to the regular beds. Deluxe VillasThe final category, the Deluxe Villas, include Disney's Riviera Resort, Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, Bay Lake Tower (at the Contemporary), Animal Kingdom Villas (at Animal Kingdom Lodge), Beach Club Villas, BoardWalk Villas, Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Cabins (at Wilderness Lodge), Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and the Villas at the Grand Floridian. Each villa holds a different number of people, but the largest hold up to eight people. Deluxe villas start around $510 per night for the smallest villa (that will hold 4 people). Typically you can expect the villas at the Grand Floridian, Contemporary and Polynesian to be the most expensive (think over $2,000 per night if you have the maximum number of people). I would expect Saratoga Springs and Old Key West to be the least expensive. The others would be somewhere in the middle. TicketsThe next thing to think about is tickets. There are two price ranges for tickets…. One is for guests between the ages of 3 and 9. The other is for everybody that is 10 and up. Children under three don’t need a ticket. Currently, a 5-day base ticket is about $560 per guest age 10 and up, and $540 per guest ages 3-9. “The more you play, the less you pay per day," so, the longer you stay, the less it will cost to add an additional day onto your ticket. It is about $85 per person to add the Park Hopper option onto a base ticket. Everybody on one reservation must have the same type of tickets/dining plan. DiningDisney offers two dining plan options, the Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan which are available for guests 3+. The number of dining credits you receive is based on the number of nights you'll be staying in an on-site Disney hotel. The Quick Service plan provides 2 Quick Service meals (no table service meals) and 1 snack/non-alcoholic drink per night of stay and 1 resort-refillable mug per person. The Disney Dining Plan provide 1 Quick Service Meal, 1 Table Service Meal, and 1 snack/non-alcoholic drink per night of stay and 1 resort-refillable mug per person. To estimate prices, the Quick Service Dining Plan is about $57/night/guest ages 10+ and $24/night/guest ages 3-9. The Disney Dining Plan is about $95/night/guest ages 10+ and $27/night/guest ages 3-9. Everybody in your party needs to be on the same plan and it is automatically for the length of your hotel reservation. Hopefully that can help some of you get a rough estimate of how much to save up for your trip. There is obviously a lot of variation in prices depending on room type/resort/time of year. These numbers are based on regular (non-discounted) rates for 2021. You can expect them to go up each year. Happy planning!
-Brittany ![]() Hello Disney enthusiasts! If you're planning a magical trip to the enchanting world of Disney, you're in for a treat. But before you start packing those Mickey ears and Minnie bows, let's talk about one of the essential aspects of your Disney adventure: tickets. As an experienced Disney Travel Agent, I'm here to spill the beans on how you can save big on Disney World tickets. So, get comfortable, and let's dive into some tips and tricks to make your Disney dreams come true without breaking the bank! Buy in Advance The golden rule to save on Disney World tickets is to buy them in advance. Prices tend to rise over time, so the earlier you purchase, the more you can save. Avoid buying tickets at the gate if possible. Instead, consider buying online or through a reputable travel agent. Not only will you save money, but you'll also save time by avoiding long lines. Choose the Right Ticket Type Disney World offers a variety of ticket options, including single-day, multi-day, and park hopper tickets. To save big, consider your family's needs and plan accordingly. If you're staying for a few days, a multi-day ticket might be a more cost-effective option. For park enthusiasts, the park hopper ticket can provide flexibility, but it comes at an additional cost. Evaluate your priorities and choose the ticket type that suits your group's preferences and interests. Check for Promotions and Discounts Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts offered by Disney or authorized ticket sellers. Disney often runs special offers for specific dates or seasons. Additionally, look for bundles that may include tickets and accommodations, potentially saving you a bundle in the long run. Consider Annual Passes If you're a frequent Disney visitor or plan on returning within the year, an annual pass can be a great way to save. The pass provides access to the parks for a full year and includes various perks, such as discounts on dining and merchandise. It may be an upfront investment, but it can pay off if you make multiple trips. Military and Florida Resident Discounts If you're a member of the military or a Florida resident, Disney offers special discounts on tickets. Make sure to bring the necessary identification and documentation to take advantage of these savings. Use Points and Rewards Do you have credit card points, travel rewards, or other loyalty program benefits? Check if you can redeem them for Disney World tickets. It's a fantastic way to save while enjoying the magic. Consider an Authorized Disney Travel Agent Booking your Disney adventure through an experienced Disney Travel Agent can be an excellent option. These professionals, like myself, are experts in finding the best deals and helping with of all the nitty-gritty details to make your trip memorable and stress-free. Off-Peak Travel Choosing to visit Disney World during the off-peak seasons can lead to significant savings on tickets and accommodations. Not to mention, smaller crowds, shorter lines, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Stay Informed Disney's pricing and policies can change, so staying informed is essential. Follow Disney-related blogs, forums, and social media channels to get updates on deals, promotions, and insider tips. In conclusion, saving big on Disney World tickets is entirely possible with a little planning and know-how. By purchasing in advance, selecting the right ticket type, keeping an eye on promotions, and exploring discounts, you can make your Disney dreams come true without emptying your wallet. So, go ahead, embark on that magical adventure, and let the enchantment of Disney World sweep you off your feet without breaking the bank! Wishing you a truly unforgettable Disney experience. The Ultimate Disney World Packing Checklist: Tips from an Experienced Disney Travel Agent11/19/2023
![]() Hey there, fellow Disney enthusiasts! If you're planning an enchanting adventure to the most magical place on Earth – Disney World, then you're in for a treat. As an experienced Disney Travel Agent, I've helped many families make their dreams come true, and today, I'm here to share with you the ultimate Disney World packing checklist. Whether it's your first time or your fiftieth, it's crucial to be well-prepared to ensure you have the most memorable and enjoyable trip possible. So, let's dive right into the must-haves and essentials to make your Disney vacation truly magical. 1. Disney World Park Tickets and Reservations Before you even start thinking about packing, make sure you have your park tickets and reservations sorted out. In recent years, Disney has implemented a reservation system for park entry, dining, and more. Make sure you've got all your plans locked in, including Genie+ reservations if available, to ensure a smooth and magical experience. 2. Comfortable Shoes and Clothing Walking is a big part of any Disney vacation. Be sure to pack comfortable, breathable clothing, and most importantly, comfortable walking shoes. You'll be on your feet for most of the day, so invest in a good pair of sneakers or walking shoes to prevent sore feet. 3. Weather-Appropriate Attire Florida weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and pack accordingly. Bring lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing for hot days and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don't forget to pack a poncho or rain jacket – afternoon rain showers are common in the summer. 4. Disney-Themed Attire Part of the Disney magic is dressing up in Disney-themed clothing or costumes. You'll see many guests of all ages in character attire. So, pack your favorite Disney T-shirts, ears, or costumes to join in the fun. 5. Sun Protection Florida sunshine can be relentless. Don't forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to stay safe from sunburn. A small, portable fan can also be a lifesaver on hot days. 6. Park Bag Essentials A well-packed park bag can make your day more comfortable. Here's what you should include:
If you're staying at a Disney Resort, MagicBands are your key to the kingdom. These wristbands are your room key, park ticket, and even payment method, all in one. Don't forget to pack yours! 8. Autograph Book and Pen Meeting Disney characters is a highlight for many guests, especially children. Be sure to pack an autograph book and pen for those memorable character interactions. 9. Portable Phone Charger With all the photos, videos, and My Disney Experience app usage, your phone's battery can drain quickly. A portable phone charger can be a lifesaver to ensure you capture all those magical moments. 10. Disney Gift Cards If you're on a budget or want to control your spending, consider loading up Disney gift cards. It's a convenient and secure way to manage your finances while on vacation. 11. Medications and Personal Necessities Don't forget any essential medications, as well as personal items like toothbrush, toothpaste, and other toiletries. Many hotels offer basic toiletries, but it's always good to have your favorites on hand. 12. Camera and Accessories While your smartphone can capture great memories, consider bringing a camera for higher-quality photos. Don't forget extra memory cards and a camera bag for protection. 13. Entertainment for Wait Times There can be some wait times in the parks. Consider bringing a small book, playing cards, or other forms of entertainment to keep you and your party occupied during downtime. 14. Travel Insurance and Important Documents It's always a good idea to have travel insurance, especially for international visitors. Additionally, ensure you have your ID, passport (if applicable), and any necessary travel documents. 15. Patience and Flexibility The most essential items you can bring to Disney World are patience and flexibility. The parks can get crowded, and things may not always go as planned. Remember to relax, enjoy the magic, and make the most of your time at the Happiest Place on Earth. So, there you have it, the ultimate Disney World packing checklist! By being well-prepared, you'll have the time of your life at Disney World, and you'll be ready to make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Safe travels, and may your Disney adventure be truly magical! If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out to your friendly neighborhood Disney Travel Agent. |
AuthorBrittany is a Disney fanatic and an agent with Magical Journeys Travel. As a College of Disney Knowledge graduate, she has plenty of expert tips to share. Brittany can help you plan a spectacular Disney vacation and ensure you get the best deal possible... for free! Archives
October 2023
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