Why Visit Walt Disney World? Inspiration, Culture, Unique Experiences

Your Planning Timeline

Following a timeline aids organizing your booking and research activities for a stress-free trip.

Planning Phases

A structured approach for your Walt Disney World vacation planning.

Initial Steps 6-12 Months

Accommodation:

Book your Disney Resort hotel (for best availability) or confirm off-site accommodation.

Tickets:

Purchase your theme park tickets.

Park Reservations:

Make Park Reservations for each park and day, as these are mandatory for entry.

Mid-Range Bookings 3-6 Months

Flights:

Book your flights to Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Dining:

Make dining reservations for popular table service restaurants 60 days in advance.

Genie+ Strategy:

Research Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane strategies.

Refinement 1-2 Months

Itinerary:

Finalize your itinerary, outlining daily park visits and attraction priorities.

App Setup:

Ensure My Disney Experience app is set up and all reservations are linked.

MagicBands:

Order MagicBands (if desired and staying at a Disney resort).

Mandatory Reservations

Confirm these useful elements well in advance for a seamless visit.

Required Items

Theme Park Tickets and Park Reservations are mandatory for park entry.
Dining Reservations are highly recommended for all table-service meals.
Resort Hotel Reservations secure your accommodation.
Flight and Airport Transportation bookings secure your travel to and from Orlando.

Knowledge Building

Familiarize yourself with park operations and services for a better experience.

Recommended Study

Familiarize yourself with My Disney Experience app features.
Review park maps and attraction lists to identify must-do experiences.
Understand Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane systems for managing wait times.
Read recent park reviews or watch vlogs for current tips and operational updates.

Departing Your Home

Ensure your home is secure and prepared before you leave for your trip.

Home Security

Secure your home by locking all windows and doors.
Arrange for mail collection or a postal hold.
Ensure pets are cared for by a trusted person or boarding facility.
Turn off unnecessary appliances and lights for energy savings and safety.

Money & Papers

Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
Make copies of important documents, digital and physical, storing them separately.
Purchase Travel insurance for investment protection.
Organize travel funds and foreign currency if needed.

Ready to Go

Pack your bags using a detailed packing list.
Charge all your electronics: phones, Portable chargers, cameras.
Lay out clothes for your travel day to avoid last-minute rushing.
Check the Orlando weather forecast for your trip duration.

Comprehensive Pre-Trip List

A thorough pre-trip checklist ensures all bookings, research, and home preparations are complete for a stress-free departure.

Arrival Checklist

Your arrival day can be busy. This checklist guides your first steps smoothly.

First Steps on Landing

1
Luggage Collection:
Collect your baggage from the claim area.
2
Transportation:
Proceed to your pre-arranged airport transportation (Mears Connect, rideshare, rental car pick-up).
3
Hotel Check-in:
Check into your resort or hotel promptly.

Getting Situated

Resort Orientation:
Familiarize yourself with your resort's amenities, dining, and transportation services.
Park Orientation:
Use the My Disney Experience app map. Locate restrooms, first aid, and planned attractions.
Currency & Essentials:
ATMs are available. Purchase forgotten items at resort gift shops or nearby stores (park prices are higher).

Settle In and Plan

App Sync

Confirm your My Disney Experience app links are active for tickets, PhotoPass, and MagicBands.

Check park hours and entertainment schedules for your visit.

Comfort & Access

Test your MagicBand for room entry and park access.

Review resort welcome packet for dining options and pool hours.

Unpack & Refresh

Unpack essential items like swimsuits or comfortable clothes.

Take a moment to refresh before heading out to the parks.

First Day Focus

Upon arrival, prioritize luggage, transportation to your lodging, and checking into your resort. A clear plan for these initial steps reduces stress.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure efficiently to ensure a relaxed end to your trip.

Packing has

Consider shipping large or fragile souvenirs home directly from Disney gift shops.
This prevents items from taking up luggage space or getting damaged.
Ensure all liquids in checked bags comply with TSA regulations.
Keep fragile items in carry-on if not shipping.

VAT & Sales Tax

The United States does not operate a nationwide VAT or sales tax refund program for tourists.
Florida's sales tax is 6%, with additional county taxes. These are not refundable.
Keep purchase receipts for your records, though refunds are not applicable.
Understand any customs declarations required for your home country.

Travel Timing

Adhering to these timings minimizes airport stress.

Departure Times

Airport Check-in:2-3 Hours Prior
Resort Check-out:Typically 11:00 AM
Luggage Services:Flexible Storage
Rental Car Return:As Agreed (Full Tank)

Homebound Preparations

Confirm your flight details and departure time.
Arrange transportation to the airport.
Ensure all your belongings are packed. Double-check closets and drawers.
Dispose of any perishable food items from your hotel room.

Smooth Departure

Plan your airport arrival time carefully. Consider shipping large souvenirs. Double-check your room for forgotten items before checking out.

A relaxed departure concludes your magical journey.