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Walt Disney World, Orlando

Why Using a Disney Planner is a Great Idea When Planning a Trip to Disney World

Cinderella Castle, Disney World

July 23, 2020 //  by Five Family Adventurers//  41 Comments

  21    

Updated 2/28/2022

You are thinking of booking a trip to Disney World. Maybe it’s your first time or you haven’t been since 1985 when there were only two parks. What could be so hard? Go on the website or call (you may be on hold for a bit). Then, plug-in your dates, pick a hotel, add some tickets, maybe a dining and—voilà–you are all set. You’ll arrive with the kids, check-in, run to the parks with the kids, ride all the rides, maybe get some dinner at a table service restaurant, go back to hotel, and get a good night sleep.


I love Disney and love sharing what I’ve learned. If you are planning a Disney, I can help. Check me out at alison-wishesandwizardstravelco or email me at alison@wishesandwizardstravel.com.

Sounds simple, right? Well, it’s not that simple. You see, Disney World has lots of nuances, some of which you may not know about unless you go frequently.

Did you know there are three tiers of accommodations on Disney Properties? What about the fact that you actually have to book dining reservations for table service restaurants in advance? Perhaps you didn’t know about the Disney extras or the special events Disney offers?  Disney has VIP services, dessert parties, and special events that require a separate ticket. For example, Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween party requires an additional ticket and wrist band to attend. Although, the party has been modified for covid, the same requirements are in place.

I have seen visitors that were totally unaware and had to leave the Magic Kingdom, screaming children in tow. You may not be able to get on all of your favorite rides in one day, but there’s a chance you can get on the ones you really want by booking a Fastpass in advance. Never heard of a Fastpass? Well then, you may want to contact a Disney Travel Planner before booking your trip.

With the onset of COVID, Disney now requires park reservations. This can sometimes be a frustrating and not so easy task. Imagine if you booked your vacation, bought plane tickets, and then went to make park reservations only to find out your favorite parked is sold-out for the day. This is where I come in to make sure these type of issues don’t happen.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween party, Walt Disney World
Dessert Parties, Walt Disney World

Hiring a Disney travel planner is like having a Disney expert by your side at all times. Did you know that Disney travel planners get a Disney degree through Disney College? Travel planners then must continue training with updates and additional education to stay accredited. Think of it as a PhD in Disney-ology.

Disney Travel planner, Disney World

I love to travel with my family; we have been fortunate enough to travel all around the globe with our kids. But the place that keeps bringing me back is Disney World. I could go to Disney every year—and, maybe, even more than annually.  Disney is my happy place; I feel like a kid when I get there, and cannot wait to see and do it all.  I love it so much that I wanted others to love it as well. So,  I became a Disney travel planner. My passion is planning perfect Disney vacations, so that they feel the same love and wonder.

Disney Travel Planning: No Cost

Going through an accredited planner doesn’t cost you a cent. Disney recognizes that people who work with planners are happier and more likely to come back, so the service takes no fees from you, the consumer. While a few agents charge fees but they are both usually upfront about their service fee and are in the minority. A planner knows how to harness the best rates and specials available and connect you with them. Be suspicious of any planner that claims that he or she can get deals no one else can.

Happily Ever After, Magic Kingdom

 Disney College of Knowledge

The Disney College of Knowledge is a training program on all things Disney that all Disney planners must take. It’s a  comprehensive, module-based training system that give planners detailed information on everything from food to hotels. We learn everything we could ever want about the parks. We also get trained on Disney Cruise Line, Aulani, and Adventures by Disney. Additionally, I’ve done onsite visits and training at both Disney and Universal. For example, when the new Star Wars Land, Galaxy’s Edge, opened, I spent hours learning about its history and ins-and-outs.

Walt Disney, Disney World

Knowledge of All Things Disney

A good planner will take time to get to know you and your family. They will find out if your kids love princesses or thrill rides. They will get to know your budget and connect you with packages that will accommodate it. Planners will get a feel for what your perfect day looks like, and then place you in the right hotel for your family. They will figure out what Disney dining is right for you. Perhaps you want character dining and buffet only? A planner can help you to create those dining experiences.

Beach Club, Disney World Disney Hotels, Disney World

Save Time

Most of us are busy with work and kids. Good travel planning takes time and energy. That’s where a planner comes in. They will be the ones to spend time working with Disney to ensure the best possible reservation that fits your needs. Need to make modifications? Let the planner do it. Want the best Fastpasses (currently unavailable) and dining? A planner knows what day you are able to book those sought-after Fastpassesand do it for you. The same goes for dining; a planner will be prepared to reserve you the best meals the day reservations become available for your vacations.

Always Looking out for New Deals

Did you know that Disney will periodically drop great deals for visitors? They may offer 30% off your stay, or sometimes entice visitors with free dining plans. It’s a Disney Planners job to look out for these deals and help you get the best deal. Perhaps you booked before the deal came out. If that’s the case, a planner will call to modify your reservation to include the deal. This saves you money. Usually there’s talk among all planners before a deal comes out, so planners are ready for it. Once it drops, we are the first on the phones to get your Disney package modified.

Know the Parks and Rides      

 Disney travel planners are Disney-obsessed and go to Disney at least annually. We are familiar with all the rides and the layout of the parks. This is helpful when planning an itinerary for your family. Planners can map out your day based on ride location and what would make the most sense to maximize your time in the park. Planners also know the ins and outs of all rides and which rides would be best suited for your family. Our obsession helps you have the best experience while visiting Disney.

Epcot, Walt Disney World
Epcot, Walt Disney World
Slinky Dog, Hollywood Studios
Dumbo Ride, Magic Kingdom

Dining Booking and Assistance with Disney’s Genie +

Did you know you can book dining and Disney extras 60 days ahead if staying on Disney property? Dining is increasingly hard to get. Especially the most sought after reservations like Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom or Cinderellas Royal Table, also in Magic Kingdom. The planner has some tricks of the trade to make it most likely to happen. A planner will be able to book your dining reservations based on your food preferences. If you want a character breakfast and to try out schnitzel in Germany for dinner, a planner will make sure to figure out which dinning locations are best based on your daily itinerary.

Mickey Waffles, Disney World

Disney’s new Genie + has taken ride reservation to an entirely new level. The system is not always so easy to maneuver and requires guests to be on their Disney App, phones a lot more. This is not so great as most visitors do not want to spend the days strategizing and staring down at their phones. Genie + also requires guests must be up at 7:00am in order to snag your first ride reservation. Planners will make sure you are equipped and prepared with the best tips and tricks when using Genie+ in order to reduce time and frustration while planning your ride reservations and day. Some planners will even assist in making your ride reservations or text you in real time as to what to do next.

One Point of Contact

Every time you call Disney, you will speak with a different cast member. That means that every time you need to re-explain your needs and requests. A planner will get to know you and your family. Want to make a modification?  No problem; email or call your planner and they will take care of it for you. Need to change your hotel or add a guest? No problem, email or call your planner and they will do the work for you. A planner is your one-point of contact for your entire vacation planning before and while you are there.

I love Disney and love sharing what I’ve learned. If you are planning a Disney vacation, I can help. Check me out at alison-wishesandwizardstravelco or email me at alison@wishesandwizardstravel.com.

TL/dr

A Disney travel planner does all the heavy lifting for you at no cost to you.

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disney travel planner, Disney World
Disney Travel planner, Disney World
Disney World Travel Agent

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Category: Disney, Favorite Posts, Florida, Tips & Articles, Travel Planning, Uncategorized, USATag: Animal Kingdom, disney travel agent, disney world, florida, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, orlando

About Five Family Adventurers

I have been an avid traveler since a young child, exploring the world by myself and with my family. I am a mom, wife and individual. When not running after three little dependents and a fat Labrador, you can find me working on our next destination plans. Somehow I also manage to fit in a job. Life is short. Fill it with family travel and adventures. You will not regret it. Embrace what the world has to offer. Oh we are also baseball obsessed, not sure how that snuck into our lives.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Amanda

    August 20, 2020 at 2:31 pm

    I was supposed to go to Disney back in April but the trip was obviously cancelled. We are now supposed to be going next May so if that trip actually works out I will have to look into using this for sure!

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      August 23, 2020 at 3:02 pm

      I am happy to help if you need it. You can always reach out as I am a Disney planner.

      Reply
      • Mich Ni

        September 2, 2020 at 1:09 pm

        Disney is my son’s first on the list of his travel destination wish. Hapoy to have come across with this photos.

        Reply
  2. Tasha

    September 2, 2020 at 12:18 pm

    I had no idea about the three tiers of accommodations–sounds like it could be so confusing if it’s your first time. That’s so good to know that you can use a planner for free! How many folks find out about that after the fact and kick themselves…?

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      September 2, 2020 at 12:24 pm

      Ha, it makes life easier for those going.

      Reply
  3. Subarna

    September 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm

    wow full loaded with information, wish I could had seen this few years back when we visited Disney Land. Very useful info are there. Thanks for sharing!!

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      September 2, 2020 at 5:51 pm

      here’s hoping you can use a travel planner when you book your Disney World trip.

      Reply
  4. Sarah Miller

    September 2, 2020 at 2:45 pm

    I can’t wait until my kids are old enough to go to Disney! I think we might be ready next summer, and we’ll be looking into a Disney travel planner for sure!

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      September 2, 2020 at 5:52 pm

      We first took our kids when they were 2 & 3yrs old. It was awesome. Keep me in mind if you need help😊

      Reply
  5. Stephanie Eyerly

    September 2, 2020 at 2:50 pm

    Oh my gosh I did not know planners existed for Disney! We became annual pass holders in 2019 and then the world shut down so we only got to visit Disneyland (we live in CA) like 3 times. Can’t wait to go back and be more efficient with our visits.

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      September 2, 2020 at 5:53 pm

      Oh there are a lot of us. I love it as I am a Disney fanatic. So sorry you only got to use your pass a few times, hoping you get back once it opens in September.

      Reply
  6. Loren Dietrich

    September 2, 2020 at 3:43 pm

    Just the thought of planning a Disney trip stresses me out. Thanks for the tips. So much I had never thought of!

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      September 2, 2020 at 5:54 pm

      That’s why I became a planner, because I had friends who got too stressed out and so I would help out (my favorite thing to do). I realized with all the help I am giving I should be a planner, so I became one.

      Reply
  7. Iris Findlay

    September 2, 2020 at 4:30 pm

    I had no idea that there were theme park planners at all! And I live in Orlando! What an informative post. Thanks!

    Reply
  8. Samantha Laycock

    September 2, 2020 at 4:58 pm

    I will need to remember to use a planner when planning a trip to Disney. That will help calm my mind and know that we are all organized.

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      September 2, 2020 at 5:55 pm

      That’s why I became a planner as I had so many friends needing help and I love planning for others so they can have an epic time.

      Reply
      • Carey

        September 4, 2020 at 5:57 pm

        I was talking to my friend who goes to Disney often and she’s has someone book her reservations and eating. I didn’t realize how much planning goes into a Disney vacation now. Great information!

        Reply
        • Five Family Adventurers

          September 5, 2020 at 12:47 pm

          It helps if you don’t have time or have a busy job& family

          Reply
  9. Norma

    September 2, 2020 at 5:01 pm

    Omg, we love Disneyland!! Haven’t had the chance to go to Disneyworld but we know Disneyland like the back of our hands hehe You have giving us so many amazing tips!

    Reply
  10. Angel | Mommy-ing Differently

    September 2, 2020 at 11:06 pm

    Ooh I’ll definitely keep this in mind when we finally go! I’ve heard it’s lots to do and I’m a planner anyway so this is right up my alley.

    Reply
  11. Shania

    September 3, 2020 at 4:51 am

    We plan on going to Disney in 2023 so I will keep this in mind!

    Thanks so much!

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      September 3, 2020 at 9:01 am

      So fun

      Reply
  12. Taquia

    September 3, 2020 at 9:02 am

    This is definitely helpful, especially for new visitors. I remember how stressful it was planning my first Disney World trip. Great tips!

    Reply
  13. Pam HOWARD

    September 3, 2020 at 10:10 am

    I agree completely! We’ve been going to Disney at least once or twice (or more) times a year since the kids were little and there are a lot of nuances if you don’t know what you are doing. A few years ago, I decided to become a Disney planner too and it’s so fun to help others plan their trips!

    Reply
  14. Sonia Seivwright

    September 3, 2020 at 1:15 pm

    Disney hoilday is one of dream holidays to go. Don’t know when but definatley sooner than later.

    Reply
  15. vidya

    September 3, 2020 at 2:00 pm

    i definitely made use of many of these tips when we went to orlando in 2017.. having the fast pass for a couple of the most popular rides was truly a blessing..
    but i do know that if you are planning a longer trip or with a larger group, having someone plan the details will make it all so much easier..

    Reply
  16. Missy

    September 3, 2020 at 3:25 pm

    It is cool that the Disney travel planners get a Disney degree through Disney College. If the service is free to the client, how do the planner get paid?

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      September 3, 2020 at 3:37 pm

      We get paid by commissions on the packages we help create.

      Reply
  17. Tricia Snow

    September 3, 2020 at 4:08 pm

    This is great advice. There are so many options now I can imagine going to Disney can get complicated.

    Reply
  18. Lisa Manderino

    September 3, 2020 at 8:18 pm

    I love Disney and it is so much planning! It is nice to have someone help you the first time you go!

    Reply
  19. Michele

    September 3, 2020 at 11:39 pm

    Disney can be overwhelming for even the seasoned traveler. I completely agree with using a professional when booking!

    Reply
  20. melissa

    September 4, 2020 at 1:41 pm

    There definitely are so many “hidden secrets” about Disney planning! I have always done it myself, but hiring a planner does sound appealing!

    Reply
  21. Donna Garrison

    September 4, 2020 at 2:58 pm

    I never considered using a planner, as usually I love the prep and planning and dreaming. But making sure you hit all your favourite spots, dining, special events and such is a bit overwhelming for a newbie Disneyworld goer like me. Great tip.

    Reply
  22. Lori Nielsen

    September 4, 2020 at 3:25 pm

    Knowing all of the ins and outs of Disney does make a trip even more magical! I would love to go to that college of knowledge and learn even more!

    Reply
  23. kmf

    September 4, 2020 at 8:39 pm

    Disney really knows how to add value to every experience. It can get overwhelming to try to plan a Disney trip on your own so a Disney travel planner is a great benefit.

    Reply
  24. Barbara

    September 4, 2020 at 9:51 pm

    WOW! This Disney planning sounds complicated! This service sounds necessary for sure!

    Reply
  25. Sara

    September 4, 2020 at 10:24 pm

    I did a lot of research before our first trip to Disney because I wanted to be able to plan everything myself. If you don’t have a lot of time to do research, or don’t want to spend a lot of time researching, this sounds like it would be a great option.

    Reply
  26. Cindy

    September 6, 2020 at 10:05 pm

    Totally makes sense to use a Disney planner! I use a travel agent when I travel internationally because he knows how to get the best deals.

    Reply
  27. Vera Ida

    October 27, 2020 at 5:00 pm

    I will contact you if I go to Disney. I think we need Disney planner expert for this.

    Reply
    • Five Family Adventurers

      October 28, 2020 at 1:32 pm

      I’m happy to help 😊

      Reply

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I have been an avid traveler since a young child, exploring the world by myself and with my family. I am a mom, wife and individual. When not running after three little dependents and a fat Labrador, you can find me working on our next destination plans. Somehow I also manage to fit in a job. Life is short. Fill it with family travel and adventures. You will not regret it. Embrace what the world has to offer. Oh we are also baseball obsessed, not sure how that snuck into our lives. Read More…



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