How to Start Planning for Your 2026 Walt Disney World Vacation

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World in 2026? You’re in for a magical experience—but let’s be real: figuring out the best package can feel a little overwhelming. As a wife, mother, and small business, I know you don’t have the time to focus on planning a vacation, which is where Vacation Planners come in!

Step 1: Your Length of Stay

Every travel party is different when it comes to how long of a vacation they want. But if you’re looking for a typical length of stay that sets you up to see and do (nearly) all of Walt Disney World:

• A 6 night stay with 4 parks days and an off day (ex. Arrive on Monday, depart on Saturday).

  • I always prefer to place my off day in the middle of the trip in order to rest and recharge for the remainder of the trip.

    
    

Step 2: Time Your Trip Wisely

Crowds, weather, and pricing can vary a lot depending on the season.

• Best times for lower crowds: Mid-January through early February, Mid-May, late August through September.

• Peak times: Spring break, mid-October, Thanksgiving week, and Christmas to New Year’s.

• When can my travel party actually travel? Do you need to go around holidays to maximize PTO? Work around the kids’ school schedule? 

  • If you are not constricted by school schedules, go when most kids would still be in school. Less kids out of schools equals less kids in the parks.

• Are you wanting to experience a special time of year/event? Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party takes place from mid-August through October. Holiday celebrations, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights happen starting mid-November through December.

  • I am the biggest fan of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, and love to plan my trip to experience the party during September with low crowds, and usually lower pricing.

Step 3: Choose the Right Resort

There are over 25 Disney-owned resorts to choose from, and each one offers a unique vibe and set of amenities.

• Value Resorts (e.g., Pop Century, Art of Animation): Best for budget travelers and families with young kids.

  • My personal favorite is Pop Century for the groovy vibes, Petals Pool Bar, and the Skyliner.

• Moderate Resorts (e.g., Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs): Great balance of price and amenities.

  • Port Orleans - French Quarter is small and quiet, a great option for relaxation, and is a boat ride away from Disney Springs.

• Deluxe Resorts (e.g., Beach Club, Polynesian, Animal Kingdom Lodge): Ideal for guests wanting luxury, proximity to parks, stunning theming, numerous dining options, and Deluxe Extended Evening Hours.

  • So many great choices, but the Beach Club is superb with Stormalong Bay pool (that includes a lazy river) and walking access to Epcot.

Thinking of traveling to Walt Disney World in 2026, we can help!

Your perfect Disney World vacation package is the one that fits your travel style, budget, and dreams. Click the link below to receive a customized quote for Walt Disney World in 2026.   After all, it is the “Most Magical Place on Earth”.

Request a 2026 Vacation Proposal

Hey there! I’m Emma Hancock-Bontempo, your guide to a trip filled with magical moments! After traveling to Walt Disney World countless times growing up, I decided to put all this “Disney knowledge” to good use and help others plan their vacations to the “Most Magical Place on Earth”. After becoming a planner in 2022, I discovered a love for curating vacations for couples, families, and groups of friends; all with different wants and needs. Now married and mother to a little girl, I’ve learned how to best set up my clients for success, because as Edna Mode says, “Luck favors the prepared”, and my clients are always prepared to a tee!