A Disney vacation can be magical, but planning one — let’s be honest — can be a little overwhelming. There’s a lot to consider, from selecting the park you want to visit most and securing the best bang-for-your-buck offers to setting dining reservations and planning a daily agenda. That’s where the Disney travel agents come in! They’re pros at helping you plan a low-key, magical trip to the happiest place on earth.
This blog will cover all you need to know about Disney travel agents, including how they can help make planning easier, the advantages to using them, and how to find the one that’s right for you. By the end, you’ll be ready with all the information you need to go on the Disney vacation of your dreams!
Disney travel agents are people who specifically do Disney vacations. Which include Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani Resort and Adventures by Disney. These agents go through Disney’s College of Disney Knowledge training to gain in-depth knowledge about everything from Disney parks and hotels to tickets and more.
First-time visitors and Disney veterans alike can work with these agents to tailor their travels to suit their budget, interests and schedule.
Why Use a Disney Travel Agent?
Planning for a Disney vacation can take a lot of time, but using a Disney travel agent comes with a few important advantages:
Expert Knowledge
Disney travel agents are professionals who stay informed about everything related to Disney news, promotions and changes. They know the best times to go, hidden gems in the parks and how to avoid typical missteps.
Save Time and Effort
Your travel agent does the heavy lifting for you so you don’t have to spend hours researching and planning. They’ll take care of hotel bookings, ticket reservations, dining plans and more so you can enjoy your trip.
Access to Exclusive Deals
Disney travel agents typically have access to unique discounts and promotions that aren’t publicly advertised. They can help you get the best deal on a vacation.
Stress-Free Planning
Whether it’s nabbing the impossible-to-book dining experience or creating a tailored day-by-day agenda, your Disney travel agent takes care of every detail so you can kick back, relax and get ready for the magic.
No Additional Cost
The best part? The majority of Disney travel agents offer their services for free to you! They are compensated directly by Disney, so you receive expert help at no cost.
A Simple Guide to Planning Your Disney Vacation with a Travel Agent
Hire a Disney Travel Agent
7 tips for picking a Disney-approved travel agent: Make sure your travel agent is certified by Disney’s College of Disney Knowledge. Search for agents who have good reviews and demonstrated success planning Disney vacations.
Share Your Preferences
Know what you want, including your budget, when you want to travel, the attractions you want to see and your dietary requirements. The more specific information you provide, the better your agent can customize your trip.
Let Them Handle the Details
After you’ve provided your preferences, your travel agent will do everything for you — from booking hotels and tickets to crafting a day-to-day itinerary. They will even track price drops and promotions, rewriting your plans to save you cash.
Stay in the Loop
Your travel agent will update you as the planning progresses. They will share updates, answer questions and give you tips on getting the best out of your Disney experience.
Official Disney Travel Agents USA
Some of the Best Disney Travel Agencies to Check Out:
Mouseketrips
Mouseketrips is a free trip planning company specializing in Disney vacations, known for their one-on-one service and expertise.
Small World Vacations
The award-winning agency is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and has been helping families plan the most magical of trips for over 20 years.
Dreams Unlimited Travel
Dreams Unlimited Travel specializes in trips around Disney, with seasoned travel agents and access to special package deals.
Mickey Travels
MickeyTravels is a Platinum-level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and has 8 agents ready to help you plan your next trip to any of the Disney destinations.
Magical Vacation Planner
This is an agency of Disney certified agents who simply love creating the perfect Disney memories for families.
Where to Stay: Hotels and Resorts of Disney
From value resorts to luxurious hotels, Disney has a number of accommodations available to fit virtually every budget and preference. Here’s a quick overview:
Value Resorts
Ideal for thrifty travelers, Disney’s Value Resorts, including Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, provide affordable accommodations without skimping on the magic.
Moderate Resorts
For something in the middle ground, look to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort or Disney’s Port Orleans Resort. It also has some lovely theming and other properties.
Deluxe Resorts
Disney’s Deluxe Resorts, such as Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Contemporary Resort, are ideal if you’re seeking luxury with impeccable service, beautiful accommodations and easy access to the parks.
Villas and Campgrounds
For bigger gatherings or those who want a different experience, Disney’s Villas or Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground provide roomy and homey choices.
How to Rent a Car on Your Disney Vacation
Renting a car can be much more convenient than relying on Disney transportation, even though they provide great options. Here are some tips:
- Book in Advance: Reserve your rental car as soon as you can to nab the best prices.
- Select the Right size: Come for a vehicle that accommodates your loved ones and baggage comfortably.
- Use GPS Navigation — Get to know the roads of Orlando and drive through the city easily using GPS.
Disney Theme Park Parking: Parking is available, but fees will apply Check with your agent whether parking discounts are offered for resort guests.
THE DISNEY BLACK HOLE: Exploring Disney’s History. A Magical Legacy.
The Walt Disney legacy was initiated by the vision of Walt Disney to develop a destination where families could spend time together and create lasting memories. The first Disney park, Disneyland, opened in 1955 in Anaheim, California. Walt Disney World opened in 1971 in Orlando, Florida, consisting of its four flagship theme parks (as the parks were collectively known): Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
A trip to Disney is a trip through an unparalleled history of innovation and storytelling that has touched the lives of millions around the world; it’s not a tour of an amusement park.
Disney Vacation Safety Tips | Guide to Safety & Security
Stay Hydrated: It can be hot in Florida! Make sure to carry a reusable water bottle and keep drinking water.
- Keep your valuables safe: Bring a small backpack or crossbody bag.
- Follow Park Rules: Follow Disney’s safety rules and instructions from cast members.
- Plan for emergencies: Save contact numbers of a few people you trust and your hotel and know where the first aid stations are in the parks.
Realize Your Disney Dreams
The best way to make sure your trip is magical and stress-free is to use a Disney travel agent. With their expert knowledge, customized planning, and insider tips, you’ll be free to focus on making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Whether you’re visiting Disney for the first time or the tenth, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. So, start dreaming because the next exciting chapter begins now—call a Disney travel agent today!
Tips for a More Magical Disney Vacation
That’s only the start of planning a Disney vacation. To definitely maximize your magical experience, here are some expert tricks:
Arrive Early
The early bird gets the worm — or, in this case, shorter lines! Get to the parks as early as possible to ride popular attractions before the lines build.
Use Genie+ and Lightning Lane
Disney’s Genie+ service lets you skip the standby lines at select attractions. Your travel agent can explain how to use it, so that you spend more time on rides and less time waiting.
Plan Meal Times Strategically
Eat during off-peak hours: In general, places will be less crowded for meals if you don’t go for breakfast lunch or dinner. If you have your eye on the more popular meals, such as Be Our Guest Restaurant or Cinderella’s Royal Table, plan ahead for advanced dining reservations.
Use rider switch
If you have young kids, take advantage of Disney’s Rider Switch program. It lets one parent ride and the other wait with the kids, then switch without getting back in line.
Don’t Overpack Your Day
It might be tempting to squeeze everything into your itinerary, but make time for breaks. Enjoy the atmosphere, the spontaneous character meet-and-greets, a Dole Whip or a Mickey-shaped pretzel.
Important Items for Your Disney Packing List
Packing for a trip to Disney comes with a little bit of planning. Here are some essentials to consider bringing:
- Walking Shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, come with supportive shoes.
- Weather Gear Pack ponchos for sudden rain showers and sunscreen for sunny days.
- Portable Phone Charger: This will keep your phone charged for photos, the Disney app, navigation, etc.
- Sheriff Snacks & Water Bottles: Save time and money by bringing your own snacks and reusable water bottles.
Character Autograph Book and Pen: If you’ll be meeting characters, this makes a fun keepsake for kids (and adults go old school too!)
Sample 3 Day Disney World Itinerary
Here’s a sample itinerary to inspire your Disney vacation:
Day 1: Magic Kingdom
Morning: Kick off the day with classics such as Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean and Peter Pan’s Flight.
- Lunch: Dine at Columbia Harbour House or Pinocchio Village Haus.
- Afternoon: See the afternoon parade & Explore Fantasyland
- Night: Finish off the evening with the spectacular fireworks show, Happily Ever After.
Day 2: Epcot
- Morning: Start off with Test Track and Soarin’.
- Lunch: International fare at the World Showcase.
- Afternoon: Try some unique snacks in the pavilions and wander through the pavilions in-off hours.
- Night: End your day with a spark at Epcot Forever, the nighttime show.
Day 3: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Morning: Go directly to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and ride the Rise of the Resistance.
- Lunch: Snack at Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land.
- Afternoon: Share thrill rides like Tower of Terror and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.
- Evening: Watch the Fantasmic! nighttime spectacular.
You do need a Disney travel agent this itinerary to match your family’s preferences and pace.
Are You Able to Get Disney Tickets Without a Travel Agent?
Planning a Disney vacation on your own can be done, but it can also be very confusing, especially for newbies. You risk missing out on valuable promotions, dining reservations and time-saving tips without an agent’s knowledge.
Disney travel agents make this task easy, allowing you to enjoy a seamless magical trip! If you’re a DIYer at heart, think about using a travel agent as a consultant to plug holes.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Disney Vacation
There’s no rule that planning a Disney vacation has to be a daunting task. This is where a Disney travel agent comes in — they put in the work behind the scenes so you can sit back, relax, and get excited for your trip. From obtaining those hard-to-get dining reservations to planning a customized itinerary, Disney travel agents do the magic behind the scenes.
So, be it a magical castle in Magic Kingdom, thrilling rides in Hollywood Studios, or an enchanting dinner with Mickey Mouse that takes your fancy, a Disney travel agent can make it happen. So plan early and make the best of time at the happiest place on the earth.
About Disney Travel Agents FAQ
Are Disney travel agents more expensive?
No, the majority of Disney travel agents charge no fee for their service. They’re paid commissions directly by Disney, so you get the benefit of expert planning without added expenses.
It is less common but not unusual for them to interest group out your favorite dining option.
Booking 6–12 months in advance is probably your best bet, particularly in peak seasons. It ensures that you are booked into your preferred accommodations and dining reservations.
Are travel agents able to help with Disney Genie+?
Yes, Disney travel agents do want to explain to you how to use Genie+ and Lightning Lane to your best advantage to not waste a single second in the parks!
What if my plans change?
Your Disney travel agent can help you make changes to your reservations, including canceling or rescheduling.
Do agents specialize solely in trips to Disney parks?
No, in addition to Walt Disney World vacations, Disney travel agents can also plan Disney Cruise Line vacations, Adventures by Disney trips and stays at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.