Tips for Planning the Perfect Disney Vacation

Going on a vacation to Disneyland? Whether it's a family vacation or a trip with friends, a visit to Disneyland is always cause for excitement. What better way to make sure your visit is perfect than with proper planning? Planning is a big part of having the perfect Disney vacation and you should never be too sure or too busy to make time for it. Here's how:

Timing is important.
Plan your Disney vacation during a time when weather is comfortable and friendly. The summer may not be the best choice of all because it's usually hot and humid. And then there are those unpredictable summer storms that appear out of nowhere. Spring is usually the loveliest time of the year to visit or maybe October.

If you want to avoid the crowd, late November and early December will usually have smaller-than-usual number of visitors. You'll love the short lines and short waiting time to get to the rides and entertainment. But if summer is the only time you can go, don't worry. There will be a lot of people, but Disney is quite efficient and effective in handling big crowds.

Book ahead of time.
It's only logical to get your bookings way ahead. Call your travel agent or your favorite airline and get your reservations in place. That way you can schedule your flight at a time that is best for you. You should also get in touch with the hotel where you will be staying. If you're going during peak seasons, you might have trouble finding a vacant room, so make sure you call ahead of time. Your airline and hotel might even throw in a good early bird discount.

Have a budget.
Disneyland has dozens of wonderful places to go and visit and thousands of reasons to make you want to spend. A family of four will spend about $1,600 for a week of fun, including hotel room and entrance tickets if you buy during value season. If staying offsite seems less expensive, check out the hotels that are conveniently located. Figure in your expenses for meals, gas and a rental car. You have lots of options, so make sure to shop around.