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Wondering if Disney World packages are the best option for booking a Disney World vacation? I’ve stayed both onsite and offsite Disney World, numerous times, and can definitely help you figure out if bundling Disney World tickets with resort nights is a good choice for you.
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Not booking Disney World packages
Before I hop into why booking a package for Disney World can be a good idea for your vacation dreams, let’s talk about why people might not book Disney World as a package with hotels and park tickets.
1. Using hotel points
If you have Hilton, Marriott, or other points to redeem, or free hotel nights to use, you might prefer to use them to stay at an Orlando hotel with that particular chain.
See what to do at Walt Disney World without a park ticket...
Some of them even provide complimentary Disney World shuttle buses, like the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Bonnet Creek.
Recently, I stayed at the Hilton Orlando (see my review of the Hilton Orlando Destination Parkway rooms), but I don’t recommend this hotel for ONLY a Disney World trip, because there are other Hiltons close to Disney World and this one doesn’t have a free Disney Shuttle.
2. You’re in the area and only going to 1-2 days at Disney
If you don’t plan on spending most of your time at Disney World, you might want to stay offsite…
Although there are so many fun activities that you’d miss out on if you don’t stay at Disney World resorts - examples here:
- Playgrounds
- Campfires
- Arcades
- Pools
- Specialty restaurants
- Access to free transportation on the bus, ferry, or Skyliner
The exact amenities vary depending on your resort choice, but you might want to stay onsite at WDW, anyways!
See where to view animals at Animal Kingdom Lodge for free...
Why book a Disney World package
- Some people believe it is the way to make the most magical memories at Disney World.
- If you plan on visiting Disney World one time a year or less, you might want to go “all in” and book a Disney World package to make your vacation into a dream come true.
- Onsite Disney dining is easier when you’re staying at resorts.
- You stay in the “Disney Bubble”.
- No need for Ubers to the parks.
- Less time getting around.
The Disney dining spot above is The Garden Grill Restaurant located in The Land Pavilion.
It’s one of my favorite areas in the park because it’s near the Figment ride and Soarin’ ride.
What is the cheapest month to go to Disney?
Many people agree that January is typically a money-saving time to go to January, because it is switching over from Christmas season to festival season.
August and September, with back to school, has in the past been an opportunity for lower Disney vacation packages as well.
The most expensive time to visit is often during peak-holiday seasons from Halloween to Christmas – October through December.
However, the optimal time to visit Disney World will depend on your budget, vacation availability, and goals for experiences.
How much does Disney World cost per ticket?
As of the time of writing this, 1-day Disney World park tickets range from $109 - $189.
I will hold on to these Disney cards and Disney World tickets forever, because now that we're using digital wallets for tickets a lot of the time, they will be missed!
The date and park determine the price of the ticket.
If you purchase multiple days in a row, or in a Disney World package, there is often a discount.
What to do after you book a Disney World package?
Next, it’s time to line up your dream list of Disney dining reservations, and form a bucket list of your must-do activities, rides, and character meet and greets.
Check out a cute Goofy Disney World meet and greet video
See more tips from Jenna Loves Magic on YouTube…
Tips for planning a Disney World trip
Shop my favorite things to buy in advance for a Disney World trip:
- Disney outfits for women
- Brooks sneakers for women (see more on shoes for Disney)
- Matching Disney adult and kids hats
- 2 pack of ponchos
- best neck fan for Disney World
Get more Disney World travel tips...
- See the ULTIMATE GUIDE to Disney World resorts
- Get tips for booking Disney World tickets
- See this beginners guide to Disney World packages
- Tips for flying to the closest airport to Disney World
- Learn about taking a Skyliner ride during EPCOT fireworks time
- Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Top Disney World ride guides
Top Disney World restaurant guides
- What to order at Topolino's Terrace for dinner at Riviera Resort
- Sanaa bread service
- Where to get breakfast in EPCOT
- Joffrey's Disney coffee
- Le Cellier
See top Disney World hotel tips and guides...
- Offsite review of Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Disneyland travel tips...
- When Halloween starts at Disneyland
- Complete guide to Halloween at Disneyland
- 1 Day Disneyland Itinerary Example
Disney dining tips from Jenna Loves Magic
Remember: for any sit-down dinner or character meal, I recommend to definitely book 60 days out, or whenever your Disney dining dates open.
If you’re staying on site, you can book dining reservations earlier as a perk.
Don’t have reservations? Check regularly during your trip, on the app, or walk up to the restaurant early in the day and request a day-of reservation. Disney reservations are often dropped day-of since sometimes people “hoard them”.
I once was a walk-up and was told there would be a 90 minute wait for a table at Steakhouse 71.
Not a problem, since it’s an interesting hotel to walk around and they have an arcade.
Anyways, within 5 minutes my reservation was ready because someone canceled. So you never know.
Also see my other favorites on this list of the best places to eat at Disney World. (coming soon)
Getting serious about planning a Disney World package?
I’m so happy for you !
It’s something personal, and it’s something you customize!
I have plenty of more comprehensive Disney World vacation planning guides coming your way, from must-see attractions, shows to enjoy at the resorts, and nighttime entertainment.
If you’re seeking guidance on Disney World ticket types, need help with Genie Plus, or want details on which restaurants would be right for your crew, don’t hesitate to message us through the contact link.
When it comes to planning the best Disney World package, I have your back!
Ready to book your Disney World trip? Reach out through our contact form for assistance.
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