In this special episode of Suburban Burnout, we've enlisted the expertise of Disney aficionado, Lauren Longbotham Spencer, who happens to be Megan's sister. Together, they bring you a treasure trove of tips and tricks for planning an unforgettable Disney World vacation. Whether you're a budget-savvy planner, an all-out luxury traveler, or somewhere in between, we've got you covered. From financial considerations to smart planning, we'll help you create the Disney experience of your dreams.
Financial Considerations:
A trip to Disney World is a dream come true, but it's no secret that it can be a significant investment. As you embark on this magical journey, consider where you fall on the budget spectrum:
Budget Planners: These travelers are masters of saving money. They'll pack their own lunches, opt for off-property accommodations, and prioritize thriftiness. While they may sacrifice some conveniences, they're all about maximizing their budget.
All-Out Luxury Travelers: For those who spare no expense, Disney World is their playground. They're ready to indulge in all the luxurious offerings and experiences the park has to offer.
Middle-of-the-Road Travelers: This category encompasses most visitors who strike a balance between saving and splurging. They might choose to stay on Disney property for perks but still find creative ways to cut costs during their visit, like having an Instacart order of bulk waters and snacks delivered to their hotel to save on resort prices for these items.
Planning:
Lauren recommends enlisting the help of a Disney consultant to streamline your planning process. These experts have in-depth knowledge of Disney experiences and can help tailor your trip to your family's unique needs. Additionally, they're well-informed about park updates, ride closures, and more. They'll even handle your dining reservations, ensuring you secure coveted spots at Disney's culinary gems. Best of all, there is no out-of-pocket cost to you for using a Disney consultant because their fees are already built into resort prices.
When deciding where to stay, it's vital to understand the benefits of staying on Disney property. Here's why it's a game-changer:
Early Park Access: Staying on-site grants you the privilege of entering the parks an hour before the general public. This head start can make a significant difference in the number of rides and attractions you can enjoy before the crowds arrive.
Convenient Transportation: Disney properties offer a range of transportation options, from monorails to gondolas and buses. This beats the hassle of parking, tram rides, and long lines that off-property visitors often encounter to just get to the park.
Scheduling:
Lauren's well-tested itinerary is all about making the most of your day:
Arrive at the park gates as they open.
Head back to your hotel around 1:00 p.m. to enjoy a meal, take a nap, or relax by the pool.
Return to the park refreshed around 5:00 p.m., ready for round two, including dinner, more rides, and magical fireworks shows.
This schedule minimizes what you need to carry into the park and allows time to recharge both your devices and your energy. Lauren also recommends getting park hopper passes for max optionality in accessing the 4 Disney parks.
Disney App:
For a smooth Disney experience, you will need to download the Disney World app. This app is your guide to ride queue times, restaurant reservations, and much more. Use it every morning to secure your Genie+ passes for popular rides and purchase lightning lane passes for new attractions. This is also where you can access a park map and see the pictures you took with Disney photographers. It is your one-stop shop for surviving your trip at Disney World!
Must-Bring Items:
Before you head out for your magical day, be sure to pack these essential items:
Fanny pack or small crossbody backpack you can take with you on rides.
Credit card and I.D.
Small sunscreen stick/chapstick to stay protected under the sun.
Extra charging pack to keep your devices powered up.
Small snack for a hangry child.
Hat/sunglasses
Small collapsible water bottle or small plastic water bottle you can refill at the filling stations.
By following these tips and planning wisely, your Disney World trip will be a seamless, enjoyable adventure filled with unforgettable memories. So, get ready to experience the magic like never before! And for more helpful information, tune into this episode of Suburban Burnout!
Meet our Guest:
Lauren Longbotham Spencer has spent her career devoted to the sport of tennis. After earning a Bachelor's degree in Education from Louisiana Tech University, Lauren later earned an MBA in Sports Management from Arkansas State University and a Doctor of Education in Sports Management from Troy University. Lauren served for 13 years as Head Women's Tennis Coach for both Southern Methodist University and Auburn University. Lauren now resides in her hometown of Goesbeck, Texas with her husband and 3 boys where she is the Associate Director of Athletics for Groesbeck Independent School District.
Beyond her love for tennis, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family and traveling to Disney World.
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