When planning a Disney vacation, one of the biggest questions that come to mind is when to pay for it. The answer is not straightforward as it depends on various factors such as the type of vacation package, the time of year you’re traveling, and even your personal preferences.
Disney Vacation Packages
Disney offers various vacation packages that include accommodations at their resorts, park tickets, and sometimes even dining plans. If you book a package directly through Disney or a travel agent, you typically have to pay a deposit at the time of booking. The deposit amount varies depending on the package but usually ranges from $200 to $500.
The remaining balance is due closer to your arrival date. For example, if you booked a Disney vacation for December and made a deposit in June, you would need to pay the remaining balance about 30 days before your arrival date. This gives you plenty of time to save up and plan your budget accordingly.
Tip: If you’re booking a Disney vacation package during peak season (such as Christmas or Spring Break), it’s recommended to book well in advance as availability can fill up quickly.
Park Tickets Only
If you’re only purchasing park tickets without any accommodations or dining plans, payment is due in full at the time of purchase. This is because park tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.
If you’re still unsure about when to purchase park tickets, keep in mind that ticket prices do not fluctuate based on how far in advance they are purchased. However, some promotions may be available for certain periods, so it’s always worth checking the Disney website for any deals before making your purchase.
Personal Preferences
Ultimately, when to pay for your Disney vacation comes down to personal preference and financial planning. Some people prefer paying everything off in advance so they can enjoy their trip without worrying about finances. Others may prefer to pay in installments leading up to their trip.
One option many people consider is using a Disney Vacation Account. This account allows you to save up for your vacation over time and make payments at your own pace. You can even set up automatic contributions from your bank account.
Tip: Keep in mind that the Disney Vacation Account program will be discontinued in 2018, so if you’re interested in using it, make sure to sign up before then.
Conclusion
In summary, when to pay for your Disney vacation depends on the type of package you’re booking and your personal preferences. If you book a vacation package, a deposit is required at the time of booking with the remaining balance due closer to your arrival date.
Park tickets must be paid in full at the time of purchase. Consider using a Disney Vacation Account if you prefer making payments over time.
With all these options available, it’s easy to plan and pay for your dream Disney vacation stress-free!