Now is the perfect time to start planning your spring break vacation if you haven’t already. If you are considering a spring break trip to Walt Disney World, know that many other families have the same idea. So, you’ll need to do some strategic planning to make sure you do everything you want to do.
Disclosure: I have been on complimentary press trips to Walt Disney World, but all opinions are mine. This post contains affiliate links, and a purchase through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.
Book Early
If you know that you want to visit Walt Disney World next spring break, book your plans early. This will give you the most options for resorts, room types, and flights. If your spring break aligns with all the spring breaks of the schools around you, you may notice that flights are costly that week. In that case, you may consider driving to a further airport or choosing an “off-peak” time, like leaving on a Monday.
Look at All Lodging Options
You’ll also want to consider all your lodging options on and off property. When things are busy, staying on property can help you save time. You’ll be closer and can take advantage of the early theme park entry. Visiting the parks 30 minutes earlier than off-property guests can be beneficial when things are busy. Walt Disney World has three different types of resorts – deluxe, moderate, and value. There are a lot of options in various price ranges.
Consider Renting a Car
I never rent a car when visiting Walt Disney World and staying on property. The free transportation makes it fairly easy to go from your resort to one of the theme parks. However, if you are traveling during a busy time, you may consider renting a car.
Start Your Days Early
Before going on vacation, it’s a good idea to list everything you want to see. On vacation, head out to the parks at rope drop (i.e., when they open). You’ll typically be able to get through the turnstiles before the official opening, so arrive well in advance.
Get The Lighting Lane Multi Pass
Disney has recently replaced the Disney Genie+ with the Lightning Lane Multi Pass. This can be purchased a few days in advance and is an optional add-on to your ticket. Guests with multi pass can make three selections in advance. When you select, you’ll receive a time to return to the attraction and go through the lightning lane. You’ll have a shorter wait than if you went through the standby line.
Get the Park Hopper Option For Your Tickets
I know that base tickets to Walt Disney World are already expensive, but I do recommend the park hopper option for your tickets. It’ll allow you much more flexibility in your days, and if one park is too busy, you can head to another one that may not be as busy. The park hopper option is also great for families wanting to dine in one park while visiting another. It offers so much more flexibility and is a worthwhile ticket add-on for a spring break Disney World vacation.
Make Your Dining Reservations Early
It can be tough to get into popular Walt Disney World restaurants any time of year, but it’s nearly impossible during school vacations. Make your dining reservations early to be more likely to get your choice of dining locations and times. During busy times, you can’t just walk up to the table-service restaurants hoping to be seated.
Take Breaks in the Afternoon
We’ve found that the parks are busiest (and often the hottest) in the afternoon. Taking a break in the middle of the day, either by napping in your room or checking out your resort pool, is a great way to avoid the crowds and the heat. While it may be tempting to spend all day every day on your vacation, taking a break can help you handle the frustrations of a spring break vacation.
Get Familiar With the My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app is essential for keeping you organized during your Disney vacation. The free Genie (different from the recently retired paid Genie+) can provide tips and a basic schedule for experiencing what you want to do. In addition, if you plan to go to any quick-service restaurants, mobile ordering can be beneficial and time-saving.
Be Patient and Set Your Expectations
There will be crowds. It will be hot. You will have to wait in line.
You may not be able to do everything you want to do, but you’ll still be able to have a great time. Be prepared to be patient and set your expectations in advance. You can do a lot to prepare before your trip to make things easier, however. Just set a plan, stay organized, do your research in advance, and then have a great time.
Read more tips for visiting Walt Disney World at spring break here.
Save money on your Walt Disney World theme park tickets by booking through Get Away Today.