There is an argument happening in my house right now! My husband would like to visit Disney World without a plan. WHAT? As a travel planner who specializes in Disney destinations and Universal Studios this is a little unnerving to me! So, is the BEST plan on vacation at Disney World NO PLAN AT ALL?
First, for any Disney related travel plans, let me encourage you to utilize the service of a travel professional that specializes in Disney Destinations.
Back story
We visit Walt Disney World regularly, meaning about 1 or 2 times a year. We’ve done A LOT that Disney has to offer, but you might say it’s impossible to do EVERYTHING even after multiple trips. Our goal on any vacation is to try those activities, dining, shows, attractions, etc. that we haven’t done before. We are still working on it after all those trips.
The Relevant Facts
We have a trip booked. We have our tickets and park pass reservations. For part of the stay, we are participating in RunDisney events which means early mornings and tired legs. If you would like to know more about these events, please check out RunDisney? 4 Reasons Why You Should.
My husband’s argument is that we should see how we feel in the moment and let it ride. My brain is having a difficult time comprehending the gravity of NOT preplanning and having a “must-do” list.
The Reality
To be fair to him, we have done what he proposes on a trip we took a few years ago. In fact, we didn’t even visit the parks on that vacation. We spent our time between Disney Springs and visiting the different resorts. We had no dining reservations or plans and honestly it was GREAT!
There is a lot to be enjoyed outside of having multiple reservations. In addition, the property of full of activities and dining that does not require a reservation. Many of the quick service food locations are fantastic and use the mobile order feature.
The problem with Disney World No Plan at All
To add to his argument, I recently OVER PLANNED a trip we took with our whole family- 9 people, all adults. I won’t live it down from any of them. We spent more time on transportation and getting to reservations than we did enjoying the vacation.
However, in the last couple of years, Disney has made a “vacation” to the parks and resorts a puzzle for most people, a game even. The addition of Disney Genie, Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane Purchases has created anxiety among potential guests due to the complexity of using these tools.
*Update: On July 24, 2024, Disney Genie+ will transition to Lightning Lane Multi Pass allowing guests to pre-schedule Lightning Lane reservations ahead of their vacation.
I find myself advising my clients to familiarize themselves with the Disney App far in advance of their stay. That’s a bit of a shame, isn’t it? You need to “practice” for your vacation so you can NOT be frustrated when you are there.
The My Disney Experience app is where all of your plans are stored. It is also where you will get suggestions based on what you tell it you want to see/do/eat/ride. It’s your resort stay, your park tickets, park passes, and dining reservations.
Through the app you will purchase Disney Genie+ to utilize lightning lanes and mobile order food at quick service locations. The idea is that you will use the tool to accomplish all of your goals on your trip to Disney World.
So, Can You Just Wing It?
We are approaching our 60-day window before arrival for our trip. What does that mean? 60 days from the date you arrive as a Disney World Resort guest you’re advanced dining reservation window opens for the entirety of your trip.
The Advanced Reservation opening of a Disney World vacation is when Disney resort guests can make reservations for popular dining locations and magical extras. Whether staying at a value, moderate, or deluxe Disney resort, this perk is offered to all guests staying on Disney property. The entirety of your stay can be booked at 60 days of your check-in day. Check out Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Disney World for great ideas on some of those activities.
My Point
If we would like to accomplish our goal of “doing the things we haven’t done before” how do we do that without preplanning? Those advanced reservations fill up VERY quickly, especially the most popular ones. I’ve gotten out of bed at 5am on a 60-day window date for my clients to snag their “most wanted” because it’s necessary.
Counter Point
Disney gives you up to 24 hours prior to your reservation to cancel. There are many people who do just that. It opens availability up at some of those most popular dining spots last minute. So, while not all dining locations require a reservation, even the ones that do may have open spots last minute!
The Conclusion
My suggestion is keep it simple and only make a couple “dining reservations”. Focus on a FEW key attractions and experiences that are important to you and spread them out over your vacation. If you are traveling with a group, everyone should have a vote on what each would like to try, but only one person should be the key contact.
Are you thinking about your next trip? Reach out to DizN Vacations. Their team of knowledgeable and experienced advisors can help you build your best vacation. You can also submit a free no obligation quote request to start planning your trip right away.
Also, continue to follow my blogs and visit my tools page for tips and tricks for your next trip.
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