How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

So, you’ve got a big family trip to Disney coming up? Take it from us, planning a Walt Disney World vacation with a with a large crew can present more than a few challenges. However, with a little careful planning – it can be smooth sailing from start to finish. In fact, if you follow our helpful little guide here – you just may find yourself making memoires that last a lifetime.

Let’s dig in, shall we?

Your Survival Guide on How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

  • Get Everyone On the Same Page

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Everyone has their own idea of how this family vacation should go. Before you book your park tickets or Advanced Dining Reservations, be sure to get everyone together and have a heartfelt discussion. Ask some basic questions:

  • What time do we want to get to the parks?
  • Do we want to plan a resort rest day?
  • What are our must do attractions and shows?

Remember, not everyone will agree… and that’s okay. Allow everyone to be heard and try to keep a checklist of their hopes and dreams. This will help you narrow in on whether or not everything will be a group activity or if you should opt to do some pairing off. Remember, there is no wrong way to do Disney!

  • Pick A Team Leader

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Chances are that if you’re reading this… you’re already the Team Leader. Whether you think you are or not, put it to a vote at your next family gathering/group conversation, This role will be called on to contract your Travel Agent, double check dates/times, and make the tie-breaking call when the time comes. And it will come! So, be ready and remember… with greatness comes great responsibility.

  • Make Your Reservations… NOW

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Hey! Look at that… we’re only on our third item and you’ve already got a leg up on the competition. Why? Because you’ve already booked your upcoming Walt Disney World trip with a knowledgeable Traveling Mouse Company Vacation Planner! This means, they’ll take care of all the heavy lifting. All you need to do is tell them what you hope to do when while hanging in Mickey’s backyard and rest easy knowing that they’ll do everything in their power to make it happen. Just keep in mind, the earlier you book your trip and chat with your Travel Agent, the better!

  • Get Creative

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

You know those corny families that wear matching shirts in Disney? BE ONE OF THEM! Look, if you can’t embrace your silly side in WDW, where can you?! Either order them online or create your own. Oh – and don’t forget to snap a full family photo in front of Cinderella Castle when y’all are sporting them!

  • And While We’re on the Subject…

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Double check with your Travel Agent to make sure none of your arrangements require special dress attire. Once you’ve covered your bases… it’s all about beating the heat. OR… is it all about keeping warm? That’s right… even Florida in December can get a little chilly at night.

Look, we all want to look good in those inevitable social media photos. But try to straddle the line between fashionable and comfort as much as possible.

  • Grab a Goody Bag

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Make a checklist of all the medications and home remedies you require (Advil, Tylenol, Thumbs, etc.) and pack a goody bag full of them. Oh – and don’t forget to bring them to the parks with you!

  • Binge Watch

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

The only thing half as fun as taking a Walt Disney World vacation is planning a Walt Disney World vacation! Take advantage of all the built-up excitement by gathering the troops and hosting a Disney movie marathon with Disney+.

  • Make WE Time

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Sometimes Walt Disney World can be all “go, go, go!” It is important to stop and smell the popcorn from time to time. We know, you want to ride the latest rides. But take a second to sit on a park bench and tell that special someone how much the mean to you. 

  • Make ME Time

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Whether you take a slow walk to the soda refill station with your new mug or plan a trip to the spa, be sure to make a little time for yourself. It doesn’t have to be indulgent or take the whole day. Just have a little mental check-in with yourself. Trust us, you’ll be a better “we” if you take time for “me.”

  • Beat the Lines

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Walt Disney World attractions can sometimes be a game of “hurry up and wait.” Kill the time in line by bringing a game along to play with your group. You’d be surprised how fast the minute hand flies when you’re having fun!

  • Plan a R&R Day

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

If you can, try your best to plan a rest day. Sure, it can be tempting to hit multiple parks per day, rope drop, close out the Monorail, you name it – but nothing will jumpstart your energy for the next big day of adventure like a little time off. So, sleep in, hit the pool, order room service… whatever you need to do to take a time out. Trust us, the parks aren’t going anywhere! They’ll be there when you’re back on your feet.

  • Enjoy Yourself

How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney!

Ask yourself, “how many times will we all be together?” Even the most dedicated family out there is working on borrowed time. So, let that be a reminder to soak up every second with those you love most. Oh – and – let’s not forget… you’re in the most magical place on Earth! So, make some magic!

And there you have it, 12 tips on How to Plan a BIG Family Trip to Disney! Let us know if there is anything we missed or that you’d like to see added. And safe travels!