Hello there T!
Welcome to planDisney, and thanks for stopping by with your vacation question. Sounds like you are thinking of planning a trip to Walt Disney World... how exciting! Let's talk about your payment options for your magical vacation.
When you book a stay at a
Walt Disney World resort, there is a deposit required. The amount will vary, depending on your type of reservation.
- TRAVEL PACKAGE: If you choose to reserve a vacation travel package, which includes both a Disney resort hotel room and theme park tickets, you will need to pay a $200 refundable deposit (prices subject to change). You can then make payments of any amount and frequency toward your remaining balance, with the total amount being due 30 days prior to your arrival date.
- RESORT ROOM ONLY: If you are reserving a Disney Resort hotel only, you will need to pay a deposit equivalent to the first night's stay (plus tax).
Personally, I like to book a travel package well in advance. It's nice and flexible, reserves your room choice and preferred dates, and can always be modified if needed. I recommend watching the
Disney World Special Offers page for any deals that may be offered... if one pops up that works for your travel dates and plans, you can easily change your reservation to take advantage of the sale and save money. Woo hoo!
My family loves to stay at a Disney Resorts Collection Hotel when we visit Disney World. I appreciate that they offer three categories of resorts, so guests can choose from Value, Moderate, or Deluxe. We've enjoyed staying at all three types... and they each offer their own special type of pixie dust! Being an "on-site" guest also comes with great perks like early theme park entry, using stress-free Disney transportation to get around, and being allowed to make Lightning Lane reservations sooner than off-site guests.
And as an extra special perk this year... all guests staying at a Disney Resort in 2025 will receive free admission to a Disney Water Park on arrival day!
I hope this helps, and you are able to reserve your dream vacation soon. Please
visit me again at planDisney if I can help with another other recommendations, tips, or ideas.
The magic is calling!
Tami