Hi, Alannah! Welcome to planDisney.
Planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation for a large group can be exciting but requires some extra thought. The good news is that you don't have to head "into the unknown" alone. If you're planning a vacation for a large group, I recommend reaching out to
Disney Resort Hotel Reservations. A friendly Cast Member can assist you in organizing your trip and help with reservations for your entire party. They can also create a vacation package tailored to your needs, including
accommodations and
theme park tickets. By sharing your budget and preferences with the Cast Member, they’ll work to find options that are, as Mary Poppins would say, “practically perfect in every way.”
Also, here are my top tips for making it a magical experience for everyone:
- Choose a Planning Leader: Nominate someone who is organized and detail-oriented to take charge of the planning process.
- Respect Budgets: Be mindful of everyone’s financial comfort level. Avoid creating situations where members feel pressured to spend beyond their means.
- Consider Travel Styles: Recognize that some in your group may prefer a relaxed, leisurely vacation, while others might want to maximize time in the parks from rope drop to close.
- Set Expectations Early: Encourage everyone to share their must-do attractions, restaurants, or character experiences before the trip.
- Balance Group and Solo Time: Plan a mix of activities that bring the group together and allow for smaller, independent moments.
- Let Everyone Choose a Must-Do Activity: Ensure each person gets to choose one must-see attraction or experience to prioritize during the trip.
- Book Lightning Lanes: Purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass to minimize wait times and maximize fun.
- Build in Relaxation Time: Schedule downtime for everyone to recharge—especially if you’re traveling with young children.
Although Walt Disney World Resort does not provide a formal “payment plan,” there’s a flexible way to pay toward your vacation over time. With some budgeting and the convenience of your
My Disney Experience account, you can manage payments at your own pace.
When booking a Walt Disney World Resort vacation package—which includes hotel accommodations, theme park tickets, and an optional Disney Dining Plan—you’ll need to make an initial deposit of $200. Keep in mind that deposit amounts and pricing are subject to change.
Once the deposit is paid, you have the flexibility to make payments toward your remaining balance whenever you like and for any amount you choose. This can be done easily through your My Disney Experience account. Whether you make regular payments or wait, the full balance of your vacation package will be due 30 days before your arrival date. This approach lets you tailor your payment schedule to fit your preferences.
I trust that's helpful, Alannah. If you have any more questions, stop by and see us again. Happy planning!
Mike