Disney planning is not really something that should be left to the last minute! Especially if you’re trying to keep the costs to the minimum!
So that’s actually step one!
Before you Book
Create your MyDisney Account - By going to https://disneyworld.disney.go.com or by downloading the App. You can link in friends or family.
Build your budget - While you do this you need to decide if you are staying On-site or Off-Site ( both have their pros and cons - keep watch for a post on this soon). As well as which deals or extras you really need or want! (I.e. the Memory Maker or Disney Dining Plans)
Cross Reference Dates - with your parties schedules as well as Disney Crowd forecast calendars. They aren't always spot on but they can help determine which days you would like to be at Disney! We've decided to go in September due to Liz's already booked trip and the fact that crowds are decently low. Technically I should be in school given my semester starts the beginning of September - but Im going to work things out with my profs!
Set up flying alerts for finding the best flights - If you're coming from somewhere further away ( like we are) set up price alerts for flights a few months before the trips. Many apps like Google or Hopper.com will let you know when the best/cheapest time to buy is!
If you are renting a car - start monitoring prices and try to book at the lowest cost. Using services like Kayak.com for help
After you Book
Finalize Dining Choices because 180 days before your trip you can book reservations - Don't over plan but make some dining decisions since it can be hard to get reservations for the time you want last minute. Breakfast reservations can get you into parks a little early too!
Reserve stroller, or scooters.
Reserve Disney Magic Express - by sending Disney your flight info ( from your MyDisney Account) you can have FREE transportation to and from the airport. Ill have another post on this soon (keep an eye out)
Preorder your memory maker - if you decided to go with the memory maker, its cheaper to get it early!
Magic Band order/confirmation - as for fellow Canadians we dont get them shipped directly to us, only those in the US get that! But If you want to personalize it or upgrade it do so early on so its ready for you when you get there!
Buy comfortable shoes and start breaking them in - Disney is not walk in the park. Well it is. But a hard one. Keep an eye on your pedometer for fun while you're there.
Book your Fastpasses - 60 days in advance for onsite and 30 days for offsite!
Pack! - and make sure you're ready for the trip! (Check out our packing list - up soon!)
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