Mickey dressed in holiday clothes in front of a Christmas tree.
  • On Mar 31, 2023
    Tram from DE Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Is there advantage to book vacation packages vs booking hotel and buying tickets separately? What if I need to change the date of the trip due to illness ? Looking to go in December 2023

    Welcome to planDisney, Tram, and what a great question! You'll be arriving at Walt Disney World Resort when the holidays are in full swing. The festive decorations always lift my spirits! And it sounds like you're a planner, so you're in good company here at planDisney. Let's look at some advantages of booking a vacation package for your upcoming trip.

    One of the main reasons guests choose to book their Disney Resort Hotel and Theme Park Tickets as a Vacation Package is the convenience of payment. Currently, you can secure your package with a $200 down payment, although prices are always subject to change. From there, you have until 30 days before check-in to pay off the balance. It's an interest-free layaway program! If you need to change your dates, you can do so online in your My Disney Experience account or by calling the Vacation Package line at (407) 939-5277. You can cancel your package anytime before the 30-day mark with no penalty. My panelist friend Phillip offers more details about cancellations in this answer.

    Booking your Disney Resort Hotel separately will require a deposit for the first night's stay, with the balance due at check-in. When you purchase Theme Park Tickets separately, they must be paid in full at the time of purchase. My family has always booked separately because we prefer to pay the hotel balance on arrival, but we have Annual Passes and don't need to purchase park tickets. Every situation is unique, so you can decide what's best for your family and budget. 

    Tram, during your visit, I hope you check out the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. The Candlelight Processional is beautiful and moving, and the Holiday Kitchens offer tastes of the season from around the world. I can't wait for my visit in November!

    I'm sending you some pixie dust so everyone stays healthy for your upcoming visit, Tram. Please stop by planDisney anytime!

    Magic awaits,
    Elaine
thumbnail image for Elaine

Meet the Panelist: Elaine, Florida

Bright Suns! I'm Elaine, a retired teacher dividing my time between my home state of Kentucky and the Sunshine State. I married my college sweetheart, and now that our only son is grown, we are exploring the empty-nest life. My family has been visiting Walt Disney World Resort for over 25 years, so if you have questions about adult-only visits, plant-based meals, thrill attractions, and Florida-resident perks, I'm here for you in full Force. Like Yoda would say, "Trips, we will plan!" Learn More About Elaine

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