What to Know Before Booking Your First Walt Disney World Trip
Planning your first Disney World trip is so exciting, but if you're feeling a little overwhelmed, trust me, you're not alone.
Tickets, resorts, dining plans, how many days... where do you even start? Here are the big things we chat through with every first-timer. In this blog, I'll give you a quick peek at each one, link our in-depth guides along the way, and if you'd rather skip the homework altogether, that's exactly what we are here for!
What's in a Walt Disney World Vacation Package
Most first-timer visitors book a Walt Disney World package, which bundles your Disney resort stay and park tickets, with the option to add dining and photos. Sounds simple, right? Here's where it gets a little tricky.
Park tickets
Tickets come in a few different types, and the price per day changes depending on how many days you choose. Do you need a Park Hopper? Is Park Hopper Plus worth it? It really depends on your family, and it's one of the first things we'll figure out together.
Disney Dining Plans
There are three dining plans for 2027, and each one works a little differently. Some families save money with a dining plan, and some are better off paying as they go. The trick is knowing which camp you're in before you book, and keeping an eye out for dining promotions that make it an even better deal. (Watching for those is part of what we do!)
Memory Maker
Memory Maker gets you all of your Disney PhotoPass photos, so you finally get to be in the pictures too! There's a smart time to buy it to get the best price, and we'll make sure you don't miss it.
What about Lightning Lane?
You've probably heard people talk about Lightning Lane, Disney's paid way to skip some of the longer lines. It's purchased separately from your package, and the rules for when and how to buy it can trip up even seasoned Disney fans.
Is it worth it for your family? Which rides should you save it for? These are some of my favorite questions to help clients with!
How long should your first trip be?
For a first visit, we recommend at least five to six nights with four or five park days. That gives you a full day at each of the four theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom — without racing from rope drop to fireworks every single day.
But the right length really depends on your family. How old are your kids? Do you want time for the pool, a character breakfast, or a day at Disney Springs? We'll help you find the sweet spot, so you're not rushing through the parks and you're not paying for days you won't use.
Understanding Disney Resort Categories
Disney World has more than 25 resort hotels, grouped into three main categories from budget-friendly Value resorts to Deluxe Villas with full kitchens. Every one of them comes with on-site perks you won't get off property.
But the category is only half the story. A Value resort can sometimes beat a Deluxe for a family's needs, and two resorts at the same price level can deliver completely different vacations.
So which category is the sweet spot for first-timers, and when is it worth the splurge? This is one of my favorite parts of planning with families, because the right resort can make your whole trip.
Choosing a Resort by Transportation
Here's something many first-timers don't realize until they arrive: how you get to the parks can shape your whole day. Every Disney resort includes free transportation, but some resorts put you on a monorail, a gondola in the sky, a boat across the lake, or a short walk to the park gates.
The right option can mean more time on rides and less time waiting at bus stops, or an easy midday break back at the pool.
Which resorts give you the easiest trip to Magic Kingdom? Which ones are a secret favorite for EPCOT lovers? Tell us your family's must-dos, and we'll match you with a resort that makes getting around a breeze.
Overwhelmed? Decision Fatigue? Get an Expert on Your Side
Tickets, dining plans, resorts, transportation, Lightning Lane, dining reservations... it's a lot! And honestly, it's not just about knowing the options. It's knowing which ones are right for your family, and that's where we come in.
Here's what we do for you:
Match you to the right resort and ticket for your family's ages, budget, and must-dos.
Watch for promotions and apply eligible discounts to your booking when they're released.
Book dining reservations the moment your window opens, so you don't miss the restaurants you're excited about.
Answer Questions. Do you have 1000+ questions? That is our specialty! We love to chat about Disney and can answer any question you have.
Build a park-day plan so you know where to be and when, including when Lightning Lane is worth it.
Be your go-to contact before, during, and after your trip, so you never sit on hold with Disney.
Ready to start planning?
Popular dates, resorts, and promotions go fast, and the best dining times go to those who plan ahead. Why spend hours researching when you can hand it all off to someone who does this every day?
Request your complimentary Walt Disney World quote today →
Hi, I’m Jennifer! I’ve been a travel agent since 2022, specializing in unforgettable family vacations. As a mom, I know how important it is to plan a trip that keeps everyone happy. Whether it’s the magic of Disney, the thrills of Universal, or the relaxation of a cruise, I’m here to help you check off your must-dos and make lasting memories. Because, as Genie says, 'You've never had a friend like me' - and I'm here to make your travel dreams come true!
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