Hi Claris!
I find that the cheapest and most budget-conscious way to plan a vacation to Walt Disney World is to do so as a package through Walt Disney World directly. No other travel company is going to allow you to book as far out as 18 months, only pay a $200 deposit, and then log in to make small payments as often as you wish to pay off your balance! It's fantastic!
If you're considering staying at a Walt Disney World property and you'd like to save money on dining by using a
Disney Dining Plan, then the only way you can be eligible to purchase the dining plan is if you're staying at a Disney Resort and purchasing tickets with your package. Disney Dining Plans provide great savings, made dining effortless and carefree since your meals are in a sense
"pre-paid" and provide you so much flexibility and so many great options!
I'd recommend that you visit the
Vacation Package Guide page to help determine what options are best for you so you can started on your saving and consider booking a vacation for 2013. By June/July of this year you'll see 2013 Package Pricing come out. The sooner you book, the longer you have to save, budget and make your payments over time.
Please feel free to visit me again and give me some more information about your family who are planning to vacation with you. I'd love to help you with tips and recommendations to help you plan the most memory-filled vacation ever, while staying within your budget and meeting your wish list!
Wishing you a simply Magical time as you begin planning Claris!
Kirsten