Walt Disney World FAQ: 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Disney Vacation by Mary Vaughan

As an authorized Disney vacation planner for MickeyTravels, there are questions I get asked all the time. Here are some FAQs if you are thinking about a Walt Disney World (WDW) vacation:

Q. Should I drive or fly?

There is no need for a car on WDW property. Resort transportation is free, even to and from the Orlando International Airport. So if you can find a great price on airfare then fly! There's also a new fee for resort guests who bring a car ranging from $13 to $24 per night. 

Q. I have food allergies. Will I be able to eat anything at WDW? 

Yes! Disney is fantastic at catering to those with food allergies. Nut, dairy, gluten, whatever, it may be there are options for you. Guests with food allergies should discuss their dietary requirements with their server upon arrival at the restaurant. Guests also have the opportunity to consult with a chef or special diets-trained Cast Member, if desired. You can even email WDW ahead of time after you make your dining reservations if you have four or more allergies or intolerances (Special.Diets@DisneyWorld.com).

Q. How far in advance should I book my vacation? 

Ideally, I think seven months ahead is a good time frame since dining can be booked six months ahead and it gives you plenty of time for planning, but even a last-minute trip can be fun.

Q. Should I stay on or off site? 

Hands down on site. Check out my latest posted tip about 10 reasons to stay on property. 

Q. Does WDW ever run promos?

Yes! All the time. It just depends on your date and availability on which one can be applied. Sometimes they are for room discounts, package discounts or even free dining. 

Q. Can you share tickets?

No. Disney World tickets are nontransferable. Only one person can use each ticket. Disney uses a biometric finger scan system (which takes a partial fingerprint) that prevents you from selling or sharing a ticket.

Q. What is the difference between a Base ticket and a Park Hopper ticket?

Base tickets let you enter one theme park for the day. Park Hopper is an option that can be added to your ticket that lets you enter all four theme parks in the same day. With either ticket you can leave and re-enter in the same day. 

Q. Is the Dining Plan worth it?

There are three Dining Plan options, the most popular is the regular or standard dining plan. The cost is $75.49 per adult per night and for those under 10 $27.98 per night. It really comes down to math as there are many restaurants with set prices to eat. I find the general rule of thumb is if you plan to have a table service dinner every night of your vacation then it's worth it. Eating at WDW can be quite expensive, so it's a way to save some money. It's convenient and most restaurants on site are part of the plan including all character dining. 

Q. What age is considered a child at WDW?

Children under 10 fall into child pricing for tickets and dining and kids under 3 are Mickey's guests and can come for free.

Q. Where do I start?

Using an authorized vacation planner like myself is a great start. I have the knowledge and expertise to help you book the most magical trip, stay organized, get the best pricing and the best part is my services are completely free!

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Photo: Walt Disney World