can disney travel agents get better deals

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Pros and Cons of Using a Disney World Travel Agent

Planning a trip to Disney World can be stressful, especially if you’ve never visited Orlando before. And between buying tickets and researching hotels, it’s certainly worth weighing all of the pros and cons of using a Disney World travel agent. Well today, we will explore this exact question, as we’ll examine all of the advantages and disadvantages the average person will encounter when using a Disney Travel agent, and help you figure out if they are truly worth your money—or if you’re better off booking everything by yourself.

Pros and Cons of Using a Disney Travel Agent

Let’s begin with the basics—how do you go about selecting a Disney travel agent (or agency) in the first place?

Choosing A Disney World Travel Agent

can disney travel agents get better deals

Any travel agency can help you book Walt Disney World accommodations and park tickets. However, if you want the best Disney experience, you’re of course going to want to find the best Disney World travel agents .

In this case, you should find an agent who is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner (also known as an “Earmarked” Disney Vacation Planner). This can be done as easily as searching for one online. Authorized Disney planners are travel agents who specialize in Disney theme park vacations, as well as Disney cruises. They must participate in the “Disney College of Knowledge” program to learn all there is to know about Disney resort policies, procedures, and pricing. They’ll know more about Disney World vacation planning than the average travel agent, and can offer personalized guidance based on the activities your group enjoys the most. Before choosing an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, it’s a good idea to look at their online reviews. Also, have a list of any questions ready to discuss with your chosen vacation planner, so you’ll have a good idea of how much they can assist you.

Benefits of Using a Disney Travel Agent

Here of some of the benefits of using a Disney World travel agent

Let’s begin with the first benefit or “pro,” which revolves around the very important topic of reducing your stress.

Reducing Your Vacation Planning Stress

Making plans to visit Walt Disney World can be complicated. Between choosing accommodations for your group, making park reservations and choosing the right type of tickets, trying to get dinner reservations, and figuring out the Genie+ system, all that planning can seem mentally exhausting. If you want to book your vacation yourself, most of it can be done on the Walt Disney World website. There is a lot of information on their site, but it can be a little overwhelming. It can take some time to read through a lot of vacation options that you don’t want, before finding the options you do want.

Instead of hunting through the website to find everything you want to do, you can tell your vacation planner your preferences, and they will do the legwork for you. They might even make suggestions for activities you didn’t know about. Be sure to give the names of everyone in your travel party (even children) to the travel planner, so they can make sure all your park reservations and tickets are linked. A travel agent can help you decide if you want to use the Park Hopper option or buy tickets for any after-hours special events that might be happening during your stay. They can also take care of booking any special tours that are offered, such as the popular “Keys To The Kingdom ” tour at Magic Kingdom. Don’t forget about Walt Disney World’s excellent water parks! Your travel planner can book your tickets for Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon , too.

Other benefits that a travel agent might help with include booking a flight, arranging transportation to and from the airport, and finding information on stroller or wheelchair rentals.

Knowledge of the Best Accommodations

An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner should be able to make recommendations on the best hotel to fit your budget and group size. They’ll have the best information on hotels amenities to make sure you’ll find a place that best meets your needs.

If you need special accommodations, such as ground floor rooms or accessible rooms, a travel planner can communicate directly to the hotels with your requests. If staying at a hotel with a table-service restaurant is important to you, or if Disney-themed decor in your room is important to you, your agent should be able to help you find the perfect place. Working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is especially useful if you’ll be traveling with a large group. Making resort reservations for multi-family groups or school trips can be a challenge! It’s not impossible to do it yourself, but it will probably mean spending a great deal of time on the phone with Walt Disney World. Disney’s Authorized Vacation Planners have the expertise to make sure your group will be ready to have fun as soon as they arrive.

Help Plan Your Dining Reservations

Many of the restaurants in the theme parks, with the exception of “quick service” restaurants, will require advance dining reservations. If you’re staying on the Disney property, you can make your dining reservations online or through the My Disney Experience app once you are 60 days from your check-in date.

Although this sounds fairly simple, it can take up more time than you might realize. It might be easier, especially if you want dining reservations for a large group, to have your Travel Planner handle this for you. It would be a good idea to give the Planner a list with several choices of your preferred restaurants and meal times.

Once your reservations are confirmed, they should show up on the My Disney Experience app along with your park admission and tickets. In fact, anything your Disney Travel Planner arranges for you can be viewed on the app.

In short, when you’re seeking the best places to eat at Epcot for dinner, or you desire a tasty breakfast at Magic Kingdom the next morning, you’ll likely sleep a lot easier knowing someone with more knowledge and experience planned out your day ahead of time.

Help Save You Money

An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner doesn’t have access to any discounts that aren’t available to the general public. However, when Walt Disney World does offer special rates on hotels or vacation packages, your Travel Planner will be one of the first to know about it.

Disney does offer special deals periodically with little notice, so you might miss an opportunity to save money, but your Vacation Planner will know about it right away. For instance, if there is a special rate suddenly available for a comparable hotel to the one where you have reservations, your Vacation Planner could call and ask if you’d like to switch hotels to the one with the better rate.

Enjoy Less Known Disney Experiences

There are so many more options than just theme parks on a Walt Disney World vacation! Experiences known as “Enchanting Extras ,” for example, add an extra bit of magic to your vacation. Sadly, they are yet another thing you’ll need to plan ahead for.

Thankfully, your Authorized Vacation Planner can help with most of these experiences.

For example, you might want to book a tee time at one of several golf courses at Walt Disney World if you need a break from the theme parks. Or, if a bit of luxury self-care is something you need, your Planner can make an appointment at one of the resort spas for you. Whatever extra bit of Disney magic you’d like to enjoy, your Vacation Planner can help make it happen for you.

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Cons of Using a Disney World Travel Agent

While I don’t think that there are any overwhelming “cons” or disadvantages to using a Disney World travel agent, there are a few things that I think are worth being aware of before you hire any individual or travel agency.

You Have Less Control Over Your Trip

Should you use a Disney travel agent or book everything yourself?

For some people, making all the reservations, and scheduling dining reservations, is actually part of the fun of the whole vacation prep experience . It can build excitement for your upcoming trip. It can also be fun to review everything on the Walt Disney World website as a family activity; kids love to feel like they’re included in the planning. If you’re the type who enjoys making plans and organizing, using the services of a Disney Authorized Vacation Planner might not be for you. Using a Vacation Planner means relinquishing a little bit of control over your plans. Any changes to your itinerary will have to be made by calling your travel agent, not by contacting Disney directly. This means that, if for some reason, you need to cancel a dining reservation or change park admission reservations, you have to call your Vacation Planner to do it. If any original plans were made by a travel agent, Disney won’t accept modifications to those plans unless the travel agent does them.

If you are already on your vacation and need to make some “last minute” changes to your plans, you’ll still need to do so through your agent. You should feel confident you will be able to reach your Vacation Planner, and that they will respond quickly, so discuss this with your Planner to see if it will be something you’re comfortable with.

At the end of the day, you are the one that hires the travel agent. So, to that end, I suppose one could argue that you still have ultimate power. But, just like when you hire any professional (like a financial advisor, for example), you’re naturally going to cede some control in order for the hired professional to do their job.

So if you’re a person that relishes that control, and perhaps dislikes having a bit less flexibility in making alterations to your vacation plans on the fly, then you might want to go the route of booking your Disney vacation all by yourself.

You May Find Cheaper Accommodations Yourself

Disney Vacation Planners are limited to only booking Disney property hotels and “Good Neighbor” hotels as part of a Disney vacation package. Staying at one of the Disney hotels is fun and definitely adds some “magic” to your vacation, but if you’re vacationing on a budget, you might be able to find a hotel or vacation rental home nearby for less money.

Vacation rental homes can be a more affordable option for multiple families traveling together. If you are a member of any rewards programs for individual hotel chains, using rewards points could save you a considerable amount at an off-property location.

Your travel agent might be able to help you book offsite accommodations, but they also might charge a fee for this service. Also keep in mind that if you stay off Disney property, you’ll need a vehicle to drive to and from the parks.

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Not All Travel Agents Are Created Equal

While it is unusual to have a very bad customer experience with anyone related to the Disney industry, some Vacation Planners will give you better service than others. Some have more flexible time to devote to your needs, while others may only be reachable within established work hours.

Before trusting any travel agent to help with your vacation, spend a little time finding out if they’re going to be as available as you need them to be. Ask any travel agent or vacation planner how many times they’ve visited Walt Disney World, and how recently they’ve visited. Also, ask them how easily they can be reached in case plans need to be modified or if any last-minute travel problems occur. Check online reviews to see what other travelers have said, as well.

It really can’t be overstated that if you want to hire a travel agent, you should use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner for your Walt Disney World trip. An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner shouldn’t charge you a fee for their regular services. They are paid a commission from Walt Disney World, based on the bookings they make for you. The Authorized Planners have experience and knowledge of Disney vacations that is unparalleled. That being said, you should always do a little research before booking with any planner.

Are Disney World Travel Agents Worth It?

We’ve described just a few of the pros and cons of using a Disney World travel agent, and hopefully you’ve found this analysis to be helpful. The decision to use a Disney World travel agent depends entirely on your own preferences, but I do have some additional thoughts here.

If you are the type of person who feels making travel plans is part of the thrill of your upcoming vacation, or if you just prefer to have total control of your own plans, you probably won’t want to use a travel agent. Or maybe you will want to have a Vacation Planner handle some of your plans, while you continue to take care of your dining reservations yourself or your ticket purchases or resort accommodations yourself. Give consideration to how comfortable you will be with trusting someone else to plan your family’s vacation. However, if planning and scheduling seem like a tiresome chore to you, using a Vacation Planner is probably the best choice you can make. A Disney World Vacation Planner is definitely beneficial for planning large group vacations.Save yourself some stress and let a professional do all of those tedious tasks for you! You can communicate to your agent about your priorities and preferences, then let them spend the time making the magic happen.

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Michael has been visiting Disney World since he was a kid. He's also been to Disneyland and sailed on the Disney Dream. Michael is the owner and editor of Countdown to Magic.

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So far I don't see any price differences in the rates I am finding on disneyparks.com (going through their special offers link) for room only rates and ticket rates through a discount broker via mousesavers.com versus the rates quoted by a travel agent. Anyone have an opinion about why a travel agent is better or advantages for booking with Disney directly?

Walt Disney was more expensive than virgin even though its same flights .

Although i'm never offline i like to book a big holiday like this via my travel agent - she was full of advice and could answer my questions . So in the end price around , print out quotes and agent will match it- mines did!

I use and highly recomend

http://www.dreamsunlimitedtravel.com

They are an Offical Disney Travel Agent. Everything can be done online. You have an Agent to e-mail with. You can chat with your Agent anytime. If any better Deals come along, they can Modify your Reservation for you, they will keep an eye out for better deals for you. They can even make all your Dining Reservations if you want. The Service is Free. They will deal with Disney Directly for you.All payments go Directly to Disney. Any DIsney Promotion is available with them.

I am a big Fan, can you tell.

If you book online at the Disney Site, you don't have an Agent. If you call, you will get someone different each time. I like having the same person to talk to/email with :)

I have just booked our second Disney trip through a TA. http://www.yourmagicaljourneys.com who are an authorised disney travel planner TAgency They have been fantastic so far. The prices are the same as booking through Disney direct but our wonderful TA looks for looks for specials that come out that suit our family. She then lets us know the options and will then apply them to the booking. If you book direct with Disney you can still apply any special that comes out of it benefits you but you have to keep an eye out for them and sometimes they go pretty quickly.

Even with booking through a TA, I can still use my booking number to log into the WDW website and look at my booking, do online check in, add a celebration etc. I can't change the booking that I have to do through the TA.

I am very happy with my TA and will continue to use them as long as it saves me in the long run and takes the hassle out of updating specials etc

I am using dreamsunlimitedtravel too :-)

The reason I have choosen to do so is that they make all my reservations I just tell them what I want and a ca time when I need it, they make all my reservations and I can pay it off until 45 days before travel and when ever I feel I can afford to pay a little I can do so :-) They managed the ME for me all I need to do is to arravie and the rest is taken care of and I just uses mails beetween me and the agent so no need for expensive calls.

We've booked through the travel agents, both Virgin and Thomas Cook where cheaper than booking Direct with Disney, and we still got the free dining plan, if it was the same price id quite happily book through Disney, I dont see any reason not to.

It is really a personal preference, I have been a travel agent in the past for many years, so I recommend it. If you can pay the exact same price, but someone else can make a living, it's a good thing to me. They will just send your documents to your TA instead of mailing directly to you. Plus, once the TA makes the booking, any changes to it need to be made by the TA, not you.

Not all TA's will make your Dining arrangements for you. I guess dreams unlimited does, but personally, I like making my own. They never have the exact times I want, and I like to see whats available and book it myself. For domestic people, most of us have cell phones with free long distance, so if you do, the cost won't be a factor.

If you get a good experienced Disney travel agent, they can tell you lots about DW, but you can also find great info right here!!!

Dreams Unlimited, Mouse Fan Travel & Small World Vacations are all well known Disney Travel Agencies.

Personally, I've been countless times and I love the planning aspect of it...to me that's half the fun! So I don't use a travel agent. I think it's a personal preference. You'll get the same price either way.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Why You Should Use A Disney Travel Agent

Using an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner can take the stress out of planning a Walt Disney World vacation, which is complicated and overwhelming for first-timer tourists. Travel agent can make the process easier by booking reservations, making itineraries, securing discounts, and more. ( Updated April 11, 2023 .)

One thing that regulars often forget once we’ve learned the ropes is just how convoluted it is to plan and take a trip to Walt Disney World. Thanks to years of experience and research, WDW veterans know the basics of planning–from tricks for booking Advance Dining Reservations to leveraging discounts, using Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, navigating virtual queues, making ideal itineraries to beat the crowds, and more–inside and out. However, the whole process is foreign and daunting to newbies, which is why there’s huge value in using an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner.

If all you’re looking for is a travel agent recommendation, Be Our Guest Vacations is our preferred Authorized Disney Vacation Planners. They offer no-cost planning, their agents have years of experience and visit the parks multiple times per year, and their team is talented and tight-knit. However, this is not simply a sales pitch for Be Our Guest Vacations…

Our advice to use a travel agent holds true regardless of which agency you end up choosing. The point here is more broadly that it’s incredibly advantageous to use Authorized Disney Vacation Planners– any of them! While some agencies and agents do a better job and have more thorough knowledge of Disney than others (more on these pitfalls in a minute), the vast majority are helpful. Suffice to say, if you’re overwhelmed by planning, a Disney TA can help.

More importantly, there’s no shame in needing help or being overwhelmed! We travel around the globe, and nowhere that we visit is as complicated or intimidating for first-timers as Walt Disney World. It’s literally the size of a city, and Walt Disney World has its own quirks, policies, and unwritten rules that are not easily understood. It’s a bit like learning Na’vi , a language without much real world value but that will endear you with a hardcore community of fellow-fans!

The first and biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is the service. Imagine the knowledge-base of this blog (assuming you think I’m knowledgeable), but in a form that can apply the tips here to your particular circumstances, preferences, and needs. That’s what a good Authorized Disney Vacation Planner provides. It’s a back-and-forth dialogue, and they’re there to hold your hand and give you personalized advice.

Unlike traditional, large-scale travel agencies, most Disney-specializing agents got into it not due to a desire to build some highly profitable business empire, but because they love Disney and really enjoyed planning their own trip. This is why I distinguish between “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” (the words you want to look for) and traditional travel agents. The latter are professionals who book trips to myriad destinations, but don’t have a Disney focus. This usually means they don’t have the expertise to provide high-quality service for Disney destinations.

For this reason, we do not recommend national, non-Disney travel agencies when booking Disney vacations. No offense to Costco or AAA, but they simply cannot compete with the ‘mom and pop shops’ in terms of quality service and knowledge. Agents at the big companies are booking myriad destinations with little experience at many of them.

It’s entirely possible that the agents at Costco, AAA, or other big box travel agencies have never visited Walt Disney World, or at least not within the last year. The best Authorized Disney Vacation Planners visit the parks multiple times per year and keep abreast of all the latest changes. They are Disney specialists, not travel industry generalists.

Unfortunately, big box agencies aren’t the only ones to avoid. In recent years, there has also been a proliferation of Disney travel agencies that are thinly-veiled multi-level marketing schemes (MLMs). These are agencies that exist not to provide exceptional service to clients, but primarily to recruit more agents and grow by charging initiation and training fees. The problem with these agencies is similar to the big box ones–a lack of quality control and subject matter expertise. They will hire any agent who expresses an interest in joining (because that’s their actual business, not helping clients) and don’t care about the caliber of client service or knowledge of their agents.

There’s no easy way to identify which Disney travel agencies are primarily MLMs. An obvious indicator would be if they recruit you despite your lack of knowledge, but it’s not always that obvious. To each their own, but my rule of thumb is avoiding agencies with hundreds of agents. When it comes to Authorized Disney Vacation Planners, size is a liability and not an asset. Go for a boutique business and get better service.

The second biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is the time-savings. This has become a particularly pronounced advantage in the last couple of years, and is arguably the biggest reason to use a travel agent now–especially if you’re already knowledgeable about Disney.

Currently, Walt Disney World and Disneyland both have staffing shortages. This is a problem throughout the parks and resorts, but nowhere is it more pronounced than the call centers. It used to be the case that you’d wait on hold for a long time only on the days that discounts, special event tickets went on sale, or something else major and new was released.

Long hold times have become the rule rather than the exception. You might think that this is no big deal, as you’ll simply book everything online. That’s a good plan… until something goes wrong.

Disney IT also isn’t the most reliable; between that and problems with reservations, there’s a strong probability that you’ll need assistance via a call center representative at some point during the planning process. Having an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner deal with this and advocate on your behalf will save you headaches and time waiting on hold, and the benefit of that cannot be overstated.

The third biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planners is saving money. This is not to say travel agents have access to better discounts than you or anyone else–they don’t. (I don’t know why there’s this mistaken belief out there that some travel agents find better or worse prices when it comes to Disney–any variance in pricing is a result of games Disney plays with its inventory and special offers at different times.)

The advantage they do provide when it comes to price is that they are knowledgeable and diligent about discounts, and continue monitoring your reservation even after booking. This can be particularly beneficial if you book far in advance before discounts are released–relevant right now as 2024 Walt Disney World Vacation Packages will be released in June 2023.

I know several Authorized Disney Vacation Planners who get up at 3 a.m. every time Walt Disney World releases a new discount in order to quickly apply the deal to all eligible reservations they’re managing. By contrast, if you learned about the deal a few days later and called Disney to book, a lot of availability would already be gone.

They also know the ins and outs of tweaking reservations so they fall within Disney’s eligibility parameters and are less likely the be excluded from promotions. (All too often, we hear from readers who technically qualify for a discount to be applied to their existing reservation, but Disney finds a way to exclude them due to lack of availability under the promotion or something else.)

So, in that sense, Authorized Disney Vacation Planners are finding better prices for many of their clients, but it’s indirectly as a result of that knowledge and diligence.

The fourth biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is for booking Advance Dining Reservations or ADRs–Disney’s term for restaurant reservations. Guests staying in Walt Disney World resorts can make reservations up to 60 days in advance plus the length of their stay (up to 10 days). This little 60+ days rule quirk is something that can be difficult to explain and comprehend, but knowledgeable travel agents know it well–and exactly how to leverage it.

Using the length of stay + 60 day rule, a skilled travel agent will book your ADRs in order of difficulty, so you’re more likely to get the most elusive reservations. And with many restaurants still operating at reduced capacity, ADRs are more competitive than ever–by the time the 60 day mark hits, some will already be fully booked. So if you want character meals or other popular restaurants, your best bet is having an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner make your ADRs.

Beyond that, there are some generalized reasons to use Authorized Disney Vacation Planners. For one thing, they are almost always fans themselves who exclusively plan Disney travel. Most I’ve encountered over the years are good people. The overwhelming majority became travel agents because they’re passionate about planning vacations and became the go-to resource for their friends and family, and just decided to turn it into a job. Out of the Disney TAs I’ve encountered, this is true at least 95% of the time.

And, because they’re passionate about Disney, they actually know about Disney. A traditional travel agent faces obsolescence because they were (basically) just someone to outsource the booking of vacations and had no firsthand knowledge of destinations to which they booked trips.

On the other hand, Authorized Disney Vacation Planners are only becoming more relevant thanks to the service and answers they provide in response to Disney vacations becoming increasingly complex. They know Disney inside and out (they are literally tested on it!) and have lots of first-hand experience.

They will be up at the 60-day mark to make your Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs), come up with plans to help you score the prime Lightning Lane selections, constantly monitor new discount offers to see if they can reduce the cost of your trip, and generally able to assist with other facets of trip planning.

Beyond that, there’s no cost to you for most travel agents specializing in Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Authorized Disney Vacation Planners are paid commission by Disney on the trips they book, so you’re usually not paying anything extra. I don’t know why Disney pays them, but my educated guess is because it’s essentially Disney ‘outsourcing’ the planning resources they’d otherwise need to provide. If you’re calling your travel agent, you aren’t calling Disney directly, tying up their guest services or other Cast Members.

This is win-win-win. Disney doesn’t have to deal with your questions, the Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is able to make money doing what they love, and you’re able to get free advice and help planning your trip. The biggest ‘winner’ there is you. One point person gets to know you, is responsive to your requests & questions, and feels a vested interest in making sure you have a great trip. You don’t call Disney, wait on hold for an interminable amount of time, and receive inconsistent answers from random Cast Members.

With that said, an increasing number of Authorized Disney Vacation Planners are charging an additional flat fee or hourly rate for their booking and/or planning services. This comes at a time when Walt Disney World vacations are more complicated than ever, and dealing with Disney (due to the aforementioned staffing shortages) is more time-consuming.

Without question, travel agents are worth these extra fees, as their professional expertise and experience is valuable. Whether you want to pay such a fee when free alternatives exist is a matter of personal preference. ( Be Our Guest Vacations , the agency we recommend, currently does not charge any consulting fees.)

The added value and expertise offered by Authorized Disney Vacation Planners is especially true in the era of My Disney Experience, MagicBands, Genie+, etc. The Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is a liaison ( or buffer! ) between you and Disney, putting out fires and fixing problems as they arise. They save you headaches and stress in solving these problems.

Again, I speak from the experience of having to deal with these headaches myself–although things are getting better with these systems. I love Disney Cast Members in the parks, but my experiences have not been overwhelmingly positive on the phone.

With all of that said, using a travel agent isn’t for everyone. Some people have obsessive personalities and like total control over their vacations, or actually enjoy spending hours reading blogs like this one (and thank you to those of you who tolerate all of my corny jokes! 😉 ). Although we used Authorized Disney Vacation Planners years ago, I’ll admit that this now describes me. I love figuring this all out for myself, and I’m a total control freak.

Even if you are a control freak like me, it might make sense to book through a vacation planner so they monitor discounts and be your liaison with Disney in the event My Disney Experience issues arise, while you can do the “fun” stuff like planning ADRs and Genie+. Most vacation planners are as hands on or off as you specify, and it’s pretty easy to let them know what expect of them and what you’d like to do yourself.

If you’re convinced that a travel agent is for you, there are a few things to consider when choosing one. First, while I think it’s poor form to comparison shop or seek information without actual intent to book through them–as this is their job and they’re only paid on bookings they actually make–I do think it’s a good idea to make sure you “click” with an agent after requesting a quote.

It should be pretty easy to tell based on their first email or two whether they’re someone you want to work with, but if you’re still unsure, request a quick phone call. You are trusting this person with your vacation and (potentially) will communicate with them a lot, so you should make sure they aren’t impersonal or will treat you like a number. This is typically a total non-issue, as most vacation planners I’ve encountered are incredibly pleasant and enthusiastic, but it’s good to double-check if things don’t seem right from the get-go.

Second, make sure they’re providing the level of service detailed here. If you want someone to make your ADRs or make recommendations with things like stroller rental, make sure those are things they do. Not all agencies offer the same services, so be sure the one you’re considering will help in the areas you’d like assistance.

Finally, they have to know their stuff. Confirm they’ve been to whichever Disney destination you’re considering (and have been there recently ). If you’re planning a Walt Disney World trip, you don’t want a Disneyland regular–they’re totally different destinations from a planning perspective. If you’re taking a Disney cruise, your travel agent having stayed at every Walt Disney World resort hotel is meaningless. You get the idea. I’m not saying they need to spend 50+ days per year in the parks, but you want them to know their stuff.

Your Thoughts

If you’ve used an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, how was your experience? Which Disney TAs do you recommend? Any other tips you’d like for choosing a vacation planner? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

Written by Tom Bricker

I do want to comment that AAA has a specific branch that specializes in Disney vacations. I have used only one AAA agent for my bookings over the years, and she has a Certified Disney Planner designation. After enjoying this article, I’d say the difference is the other Disney dedicated agents handle all the smaller stuff that I happily do on my own. My AAA agent would not be doing dining reservations I don’t think. I use her for the hotel/tickets package, with the goal of being sure sure of the best price on that potentially high price tag.

If I rent DVC points for my hotel stay, can I still use a Disney Vacation Planner for everything else?

I would imagine there are some that will work with you, but they’ll likely charge a fee. Most of the free ones require a resort reservation through them.

Who “authorizes” Disney travel agents? According to the Walt Disney company, they don’t authorize any and have no official links. So what exactly do you mean by Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? It seems a deceptive designation.

Hi! I think I can answer this. I am an “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner”. Basically it is an individual that is signed up under an agency and has registered with Disney and taken all of the required training and tests to be able to sell Disney products. The individual agents are responsible for their actual first hand experience with Disney products. The big agencies he refers to are like Costco and AAA who can sell you Disney products, but they aren’t specifically Disney, and wouldn’t offer any of the specialized services he detailed in this article. They would book your trip, possibly give you perks, but you would be on your own if a new discount was offered, with your dining and Genie+ reservations, etc… and with any personal questions you have.

Can you hire Be Our Guest Vacations to book your Genie+ and ILL reservations each morning of your trip? If not, does anyone know of a travel agent offering that service. (I’m happy to pay.) Thanks!

Oh my God, ! That’s brilliant!

Oh my God, you mad freak! That’s brilliant!

We were going to use a Disney planner but they encouraged us to call “for a quote.” We’d long understood that compensation for their services came from Disney so we avoided that planner company so we wouldn’t have to pay ourselves. But we noticed you’d used “call them for a quote” as well. What kind of quote would they give us if we didn’t have to pay. Confused.

For the price of the vacation package, not their services. You provide party details and resort preferences, and they quote you a price on what Walt Disney World will charge for that. No different than the price quotes you’d get from Disneyworld.com.

I have had a handful of wonderful experiences with Be Our Guest Vacations! Jeanette has been patient and helpful in planning Walt Disney World vacations as well as Disney cruises. She was accessible in a situation where things with the airline went sideways, and found me last minute accommodations so I didn’t have to spend the night in a chair in the Orlando airport. I have not been disappointed!

My husband and I are trying to plan a trip right now for the 4th of July weekend. He is having trouble with people emailing him back or even calling him back. We are finding better ticket prices at Sam’s club but I don’t know anything about what we are doing. We aren’t trying to spend an arm and a leg.

Thanks for sharing this great advice, it will help me a lot.

Do you know of a good planner that you would recommend for my Disney World trip?

I’m having trouble getting return emails. I’ve sent emails to two highly recommended agencies in the past few days and have not received any response. So frustrating

Hi John… interested in having your help. Let’s start the conversation. Target date May 7 – 14, 2021.

We are looking at coming next September. When we book through you; do we pay the $200 deposit to hold it and pay if off 30 days before? Or do we pay for the full trip up front?

Is there a website or somewhere I can find a ADVP in my area? I’d prefer to work with someone who is local 🙂

My question is a little unique. Are there any Authorized Disney Vacation Planners that can help with things like dining reservations, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, etc. if we are staying at Shades of Green? The only thing stopping me from fully committing to Shades is I don’t know if there are any travel agencies that can help with just the reservations (and yes, I’m aware Shades is DoD owned). Thank you so much in advance!

I’m looking to book a trip to Disney World now that it’s open again . Looking at 3 week of September.

I am a little nervous about using a Disney planner since the one I have been in contact with is asking for my credit card information and my account password. I know they need it for reservations, but is there supposed to be a more secure way or is this how it works? Just need some ease of mind!

To my knowledge, that’s the way it works–at least with the credit card. I’ve always wondered why there Disney doesn’t create some sort of secure payment portal.

Thanks for that fast reply!

I requested a quote for an Adventures by Disney and received the first email from one of the agents at BOGV. Do I ask them if they have done the chosen destination? If they haven’t, how do I go about asking for a different agent?

You can certainly ask if you want, but I probably wouldn’t bother. There aren’t a lot of planning variables associated with Adventures by Disney, so they don’t need to have done the itinerary to book and arrange it for you.

You’re highly unlikely to find many travel agents who have done multiple Adventures by Disney itineraries, anyway.

We plan to go next year inAugust, is it too early to email them and start planning? Or will they prefer to wait as it gets closer?

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Disney Travel Agents | Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Benefits

Benefits of Working With an “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner”

Working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

There are so many reasons to use a Disney travel specialist when planning your Disney vacation. A professional, knowledgeable agent can help you through the sometimes confusing process of planning a vacation. Also, a travel agent can add value to your vacation. Agents can help show you where to splurge and where to save. They can make resort, dining, and other recommendations that will enhance your trip. They can help you travel like a VIP by sharing tips, tricks, and additional first-hand information. Also, some agencies monitor the release of Disney discounts daily to ensure their guests are receiving the best price. Since popular resorts often have limited availability within Disney’s special promotions, this could be an essential factor in getting the discount for the resort and dates you want.

Not All Disney-Specialized Travel Agencies are Equal

Not all Disney-specialized travel agencies are equal, though. Disney works closely with a group of Disney Travel Agents that it has given a special designation as “Authorized Disney Vacation Planners.” These agencies are not only Disney’s top booking and selling agencies, but they also have specialized knowledge of Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, and Adventures by Disney vacations.

TheMouseForLess recommends our sponsor agency, The Magic For Less Travel – with over a decade of experience booking Disney Travel. The Magic for Less Travel is not just an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, but one only a few in the country to receive Disney’s designation as a Platinum Level Earmarked Agency . Their travel consultants specialize in Disney vacations with graduates from the Disney College of Knowledge. Also, their agents have experienced the parks, stayed at the resorts, eaten in the restaurants, and taken the Disney cruises. Most importantly, agents of The Magic For Less Travel are hand-picked. This selection process is based on several qualifying factors, including their fondness for Disney Destinations. Agents of The Magic For Less Travel want your vacation to be magical!

Disney Discount Monitoring and Special Services

The Magic For Less Travel agents apply qualifying discounts to Walt Disney World reservations when promotions are released. They’ll do this even after booking your trip with them. If several offers are available for the same period, The Magic For Less Travel will compare all discounts. They will do this to see which will save the most money on your reservation.

If you have a current booking and you’ve been hoping for a special Disney promotion, such a Free Dining , The Magic For Less Travel will secure the discount if your dates and resort are available and then notify you via email with the good news. There is virtually nothing you have to do once you’ve booked. All you’ll need to do is simply check your inbox for a something magical as happened notification. This email will alert you of the lower price of your vacation.

Complimentary Concierge Services & No Fees!

There is never a fee to use The Magic For Less Travel’s services, and answers to your questions or a free “no-obligation” quote are just an email away. Each client will work one-on-one with an agent matched to their destination needs. Your travel consultant will monitor your reservation for available discounts until the time of travel. Also, your consultant will make suggestions and Advance Dining Reservations for Disney restaurants. They can also prepare a personalized itinerary for your vacation. Plus they can help maintain your level of excitement with the regular delivery of Magical Tips . Your agent will handle all aspects of your trip – it’s like having your own Disney Concierge service.

Special Booking Incentives – Combine with Disney Discounts to Save More!

Special booking incentives are another benefit to booking through The Magic For Less Travel that you won’t get when reserving a room or package directly through Disney. Such incentives add value to your vacation dollar. Disney Travel Agents, like The Magic For Less travel offer several special booking incentives throughout the year. Booking incentives are available for Walt Disney World , Disneyland , Disney Cruise Line , and Adventures By Disney vacation packages.

Disney will not allow guests to stack its special promotions (e.g., Free Dining with a Walt Disney World room discount or a Disney Rewards Visa Onboard Credit with a discounted Florida Resident cruise rate). However, Disney Travel Agents, like The Magic For Less Travel, can combine Disney’s discount and promotional vacation packages with an exclusive booking incentive from The Magic For Less Travel to save even more. If Disney releases a “Kids Sail Free” promotion on select cruises, that’s already a great deal! Imagine combining that special promotion with The Magic For Less Travel’s “Up to 5% of Your Cruise Price” onboard credit offer. You can see how the savings when working with authorized Disney Travel Agents begin to stack up!

Those with vacations already reserved directly through Disney can still take advantage of the unique booking incentives and discount monitoring offered by The Magic For Less Travel. One way to achieve this is by transferring their Disney reservation. Everything stays the same, including your Disney reservation number. There is no change in the payment process. Transfer any Disney reservation made within 30 days of booking to The Magic For Less Travel if not fully paid.. For more information about how to transfer an existing Disney reservation, and to learn what incentives may be available for your vacation, contact The Magic For Less Travel .

Vacation Protection

In addition to being an “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner,” The Magic For Less Travel is a fully insured agency, a member of CLIA and IATAN. The Magic For Less Travel is also a California and Florida registered seller of travel. Credit card payments are made directly to Disney, to car rental agencies, and other suppliers booked on behalf of clients. Credit charges will show on your card statement as charges by Disney or other suppliers. You will also receive a Disney reservation number. This is excellent news for Disney Visa cardholders who are looking to take advantage of the Disney Visa’s “zero interest for six months” offer.

Once a reservation is booked, and the client travels, The Magic For Less Travel receives a small commission from Disney or other suppliers. There is no cost to you for using their services or added risk to your reservation.

For additional information about services offered by The Magic For Less Travel for Walt Disney World and other Disney destinations, visit their web site Service Plus page. You can also sign up to receive Magical Notifications . This is a Travel Promotions & Discount Announcements newsletter exclusively from TheMouseForLess.

For even more savings and Disney travel planning ideas join the discussions on our Facebook Group . You’ll have fun chatting and sharing Walt Disney World and Disneyland trip planning ideas from Disney veterans.

Deals from Disney: What You Should Know

Based on the need to fill rooms, Disney offers a variety of discounts and special promotions throughout the year. These are offered for both Walt Disney World Resort hotel rooms and vacation packages . These are discounts strategically released to the general public, Florida residents, and sometimes regional residents. Additionally, there may be special discounts available for active and retired Military, Disney Visa cardholders, Walt Disney World annual pass holders, and other groups.

Although Disney’s vacation planning website can help you find current rates and promotions, they are unlikely to inform you of any special discounts before or after you book your reservation. Disney’s website advertises promotions, such as Disney Visa specials. Booking your own Disney vacation online may not guarantee the best available rate before you travel.

After booking your Disney vacation, keep an eye out for new promotions that may lower the cost of your trip. Please note that when discounts are released, you will be responsible for finding and applying them yourself. This often requires spending hours on the phone to modify your existing reservation, risking the possibility of losing out on limited availability. If you don’t keep up with discounts, you could miss out on saving hundreds of dollars.

While guests can switch from one Disney promotion to another, promotions from Disney cannot be stacked. You must choose the one that will work best for your needs or check all that apply for the best discount.

For example, Free Dining at the Value resorts is often a better deal than a room discount at the Value resorts. Likewise, a room discount at a Deluxe resort can sometimes be a better deal than the Free Dining promotion. There are also other factors to consider. These include things like traveling during the “Regular” season vs. “Peak” season. This is especially true when both rates are available within the same discount or promotional period.

Prices for Disney’s special promotions and discounts can and do vary. Availability may be dependent upon your date of arrival, even when staying at the same resort. Offers at one Disney resort category may not be as good as at another resort.

Each category of Disney Resort offers an added level of benefits and amenities that could make or break a vacation. To learn more about your options, visit our Know Your Options Before You Go page.

For information on the latest discount codes and Disney, specials, visit our Current Disney Codes and Discounts page.

Walt Disney World Resort Free Quote

Start planning your Walt Disney World Resort Vacation with The Magic For Less Travel . Use the form below to request a free no-obligation quote, and one of their counselors will get in touch with you to begin planning. The Mouse For Less recommends the Walt Disney World vacation planning services provided by our sponsor, The Magic For Less Travel. Their expert planning advice will help you make the most of your vacation time and money. The Magic For Less Travel is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and provides service free of charge.

Privacy Overview

Do’s and Don’ts: Booking Disney Travel

It’s time for another installment of do’s and don’ts, where we take a look at things that savvy people are doing right — and otherwise awesome people are unwittingly doing wrong — when booking Disney travel.

Right out of the gate, you have several options for how to get your trip on the books. Some offer the chance of larger savings, some offer less legwork, and you should take a moment to familiarize yourself with them . All done? OK, let’s jump into what you should and should not do!

DO: Check for Extra Fees and Terms

When budgeting for a trip, it’s common to budget the total price for the hotel as you’re booking it, and more or less go about your business. It is increasingly the case, however, that there are additional – and unavoidable – fees and costs. These are not typically part of the price quoted when booking, but you need to account for them if you want your budget to be accurate.

Parking Fees

Disney has thankfully jettisoned parking fees for its resorts. But many non-Disney hotels like the Swan and Dolphin do charge for parking, and the cost can really add up. For example, at the Four Seasons Orlando you’ll pay $30 per night for parking (valet only). Add in tips every time you drop off or pick up your car, and it’s enough extra that you’ll really notice it; since these are per-day fees this is especially true over a longer trip.

That’s at the Four Seasons, of course. The Swan & Dolphin properties generally charge far less for rooms, but more for parking: $32 a night for self-parking and $42 for valet. Here are the parking fees for a selection of Disney Springs hotels, just to give you an idea of the going rates:

Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista: $25 self parking, $35 valet
B Resort & Spa: $23.95 self parking, $29.95 valet
Doubletree Suites: $22 self parking (valet unavailable)
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista: $22 self parking, $28 valet.

Resort Fees

The Swan and Dolphin, and many off-site resorts like the Gaylord Palms, charge a per-night resort fee. And there is often tax on these fees too! These fees are nominally intended to cover internet access, fitness centers, local phone calls, etc. In other words, it covers amenities that you’re accustomed to getting for free . Resort fees are, ahem, not beloved, but they are a thing, and you need to be aware of them when making your lodging budget. A discussion of which hotels have them and the specific amounts is beyond the scope of this article, although we’ve included a sample below. But make sure you check before you book, because they are very common and not de minimis , particularly at the larger resorts close to Disney World. Here are a few examples:

Swan and Dolphin: $40/night, plus tax
Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista: $39/night , plus tax
B Resort & Spa: $34/night , plus tax
Wyndham Lake Buena Vista: $34/night , plus tax
Gaylord Palms Orlando: $34.35/night (inclusive of tax, woo hoo!).

Cancellation and Change Fees

While no one wants to have to cancel a Disney trip, sometimes life gets in the way and you need to make adjustments. What happens then? If you’ve done your homework, you’ll know in advance. As a starting point, make sure you check out Erin’s article on what to do if you need to cancel your Disney vacation . A discussion of the various policies for off-site hotels, vacation rentals, and other lodging options is beyond the scope of this article, but the point is, make sure you know what the policies are before you book.

As a related aside, even changes to your booking can trigger cancellation policies in some instances, depending upon the resort, the booking method, and the timing of the change. Accordingly, it’s worth being aware of the policies in advance even if you’re 99% sure there will be no need to cancel.

DON’T: Assume Package Deals Are the Best Deal

I remember once, I was at the pet store, and they were running a sale on rawhides: it was 1 for 99 cents, or 2 for $1.99. I asked the clerk: “Am I reading this wrong, or wouldn’t it save me a penny to buy these two rawhides separately?”

Now, we both kinda laughed and he said, “I hadn’t noticed that, but we obviously need to change that, thanks.” This same sort of thing happens when booking Disney trips more than you would expect. The natural thinking is to assume that if Disney calls it a package, you’re going to get some sort of bundle discount or something, right?

Well, that’s not actually correct. Especially when multiple promotions are running, booking your hotel and tickets a la carte can actually be cheaper than booking the exact same hotel and tickets as a package — and the difference can be way more than a penny. You absolutely need to check both ways to see which will be cheaper. This is especially true if the package includes things that you might not care about, like water park tickets.

While it’s unusual these days for an apples-to-apples Disney package to cost more than booking those same things directly through Disney, it’s a lot more common to find savings by cobbling together offers from third-party sites. For example:

Booking a room through a site like Expedia or Priceline may save you money compared to Disney’s rate.
Booking a la carte may be cheaper because you are able to buy discounted park tickets through a broker. (Do be aware that these tickets may not be refundable or may carry a restocking fee if you need to refund them).

In fact, we have a calculator that will help you determine the cheapest available Disney tickets for your trip. Make sure you take advantage of our ticket price comparison tool to make sure you’re getting the best deal on your tickets!

Here’s an example: I went on Disney’s site and priced out a trip for 4 from August 20-26 staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge. Disney’s standard package price, including 7 days of park hopper passes, was $5,605.88. Can I save money by booking the parts separately from third-party vendors? Let’s do the math:

Standard room at Animal Kingdom Lodge via Priceline: $391/night (10% off) for a total of $2752 including taxes.
Four 7 Day Park Hopper Passes via Boardwalk Ticketing (recommended by our tool): $2440.24
Total DIY Package Price: $5192.24
Savings vs. Disney: $423.64

The point is, by combining offers you find on third party sites, you could very well be able to beat Disney’s package price. If you’re booking the trip yourself, make sure you check all available options!

Another more common scenario with package deals is that they include things you wouldn’t actually be purchasing otherwise, or that might require a length of stay that is different from what you had planned. Simply stated, if a package forces you to change the way you would travel to save money, are you really saving compared to what you would have spent? This leads to our next tip, which is…

DO: Think About How You’ll Spend Your Time Before You Book

Would you believe that I’ve had visits to Disney where I never set foot in the parks? One remarkable thing about Disney World is that it can be so many different things to different people. Every day, thousands of people with wildly differing travel styles visit Disney World and have a great time, because it is such a versatile destination. For example, your trip might feature:

Waking up at dawn and churning through the parks doing as many attractions as possible.
Relaxing at the pool during the day and heading to Disney Springs for dinner in the evenings.
Spending time at the parks, but coming back to the resort every day to swim and/or take a break.
Doing a combination of these things.

And so on, and so forth.

The point is, the type of trip you’re envisioning can have a huge impact on where you stay and the length of your tickets. Even with a big budget, it might make sense to stay at a Value if you expect to spend all your waking time in the parks. Resort amenities don’t matter as much if you really just need a place to sleep and get cleaned up. On the other hand, if you plan to spend a lot of time at the hotel, you might find paying for the extra amenities at a Deluxe resort worthwhile.

The same can be said about ticket add-ons. The Park Hopper and Water Park add-ons are great to have, but only if you use them. Whether it’s resort amenities or extra privileges, make sure what you purchase lines up with your plans.

Finally, if you’re choosing between two promotions, make sure you think about which one is best for you. Disney recently announced a Dining Promo Card offer that comes with certain reservations of 4 nights or more. Will it save you money? Maybe, and maybe not — it depends upon how you travel, and how you would be eating otherwise. Maybe a room discount would actually save you more money. We often do analysis here to help you decide , but the takeaway for this and everything at Disney is that one size does not fit all. Make sure the choices you make when booking are tailored to the way you actually vacation.

To revisit our Animal Kingdom Lodge example from above, taking advantage of this promotion would change the price of the package to $5,564.26, which is still more than the $5192.24 you would pay booking a la carte. It would also entitle you to $150 per night in dining credits, however, and that extra $900 adds real value if you eat your meals at Disney restaurants. With that said, if you were staying at a Value resort, where the dining credit is only $50 per night, the math might not be as favorable. Every situation is unique, and if saving money is a high priority then you really just need to dig in and do the math.

DON’T: Stop Paying Attention After You Book

Little-known fact: when you book your trip with Disney, you are free to re-book as needed up until the cancellation date. Doing so can often save you a significant amount of money, or add benefits to your trip. Too many travelers book their trips, wash their hands of the task, and then completely forget about their arrangements until it’s time to check in. Even those that continue to pay attention to travel deals often forget to take advantage of this tip.

It works like this: suppose you know you’re going to Disney World 8 months from now, so you go ahead and book a vacation package. A couple of months later, Disney announces a promotion for that same time that you’ll be there. You do the math, and it would have saved you a bunch of money if you’d booked using that promotion instead. You don’t have to miss out on the savings, just re-book your trip using the new promotion.

Worth noting: you can eliminate this step entirely if you book with a travel agent. Agents are dialed into Disney’s promotions and actively search for better deals; they’ll let you know when a discount is available. It’ll come as no surprise that we heartily recommend TouringPlans travel , but if you have a favorite Disney-specialist travel agent they can certainly help you out as well.

Even if you are the sort of person that just likes to book directly with Disney, you need not handle the post-booking monitoring yourself. Within 30 days of booking, you can transfer your booking to one of our travel agents and still take advantage of their monitoring skills!

What tips do you have for booking Disney travel? Are there mistakes you’ve made in the past, or do you know tricks to help people get the best deal? Let us know in the comments!

This article was originally posted December 18, 2018. Most recent update: March 6, 2023.

Jamie Rosemergy

When not planning for or traveling to Walt Disney World with his beautiful wife and impossibly adorable child, James practices law in St. Louis. He also really likes cheese -- and loathes kale. He can be found on twitter at @jrtoastyman.

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Should I Use a Travel Agent for My Disney Trip or Disney Cruise in 2024?

Planning for a Disney trip can be overwhelming, even for the most seasoned Disney visitor. There are SO many things to consider and learn. Where do you stay ? What’s the dining situation like ? What types of tickets are there ? Don’t worry, you do NOT have to figure this all out on your own.

Disney World can be expensive

Should I use a Travel Agent?

A decade ago, planning your Disney trip was do-able…and even fun — like the anticipation of seeing all of the presents under the tree before Christmas. But today, things are different. With Park Pass Reservations, Disney’s Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selection in place , dining that needs to be booked 60 days in advance, literally dozens of hotels on property and hundreds off-property, dessert parties , memorable behind-the-scenes tours , activities , and more…it’s just plain overwhelming to try to figure it all out. Disney World is about TWICE the size of Manhattan…and just as packed with options.

Disney World Entrance

So when a friend or family member has questions about planning an upcoming Disney trip (including a Disney Cruise Line vacation ), our immediate response is to swiftly give them the name of a trusted travel agent. And don’t worry — that’s what we’re going to do for YOU, too.

If this is your first Disney vacation , you may be feeling a little overwhelmed .

Commemorate your first visit to Disney World!

If you’ve been to Disney before , you may have a general idea. Maybe a specific idea. Maybe a very specific idea, including a spreadsheet and a three-ring binder detailing every move your family will make once they pass beneath that magical archway.

But regardless of where you fall on this planning spectrum, using a Travel Agent might be a good idea.

Why Used a Disney Travel Agent? Here’s Just a Few Reasons!

Disney Certified Travel Agents are FREE

You’ve pulled out your trusty calculator, or whipped out your phone and crunched some numbers, and you’ve come to a solid conclusion: Disney vacations are expensive. And the thought of forking out more of your hard-earned, 9-to-5 (or let’s face it, it’s more like 8-to-7-and-still-on-call) moolah on a travel agent just seems excessive, right? How hard can it be? You’re educated, you manage your family’s day-to-day life, and surely you can figure out your vacation days without any extra help, right?

Are you ready for some good news? You may think it costs more. And that there are hidden fees they don’t tell you about. And that’s honestly what I thought, too. But as it turns out, Travel Agents don’t cost you a penny. EVER.

They work on commissions from their suppliers (e.g. Disney), so you pay no extra fees and can spend more time anticipating and enjoying your vacation. It’s a win for the Agents (who genuinely love doing this stuff) and a win for you.

They Find the Deals and Discounts for You

Travel Agents, especially those considered “Authorized Disney Vacation Planners,” know what deals are out there ahead of the rest of us. If a new deal comes along after you’ve already made a reservation (e.g. Disney+ Discounts , Annual Passholder Discounts , etc), they can rework your existing reservation to save you some cash. They can also run the numbers to see which deal is going to be the better value.

Oh, and they also get a head’s up on upcoming discounts, so they probably already know what deal is best.

Before it’s even announced.

A Classic Mickey Pretzel

And all that money they save you can be used on super important things, like Mickey-shaped snacks and souvenirs to bring home and keep those memories alive, until you book your next Disney trip (because those Disney World feelings can be addictive).

They Make Your Vacation & Planning Stress-Free

Your agent’s got your back. They can advise you on resort choice, vacation package, and tickets that will suit your family’s unique needs. Overall, they make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. They’ve been there and done that, and they can tell you the most stress-free way to have your best vacation ever.

Animal Kingdom

Now let’s talk reservations and planning for when you’re actually on Disney property! Here’s where a Travel Agent can be a super-valuable asset. Disney travel agents know:

The most popular restaurants and when they need to be booked
How to get those super-coveted reservations
Alternatives to those restaurants if they’re full
What rides, attractions, and events will suit your family’s unique needs
How to help you plan an extraordinary trip within your budget
How to craft a trip where you get to do everything you want to do …and still get enough sleep and real, honest-to-goodness “vacation” time when you’re NOT chasing your brood around the theme parks.

Which ride will you do first?

An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner can make suggestions for you based on which park you’ll be in for the day, whether you have access to a Dining Promotion , and what types of foods your family will…or won’t!…find appealing.

In short, they’ll help you narrow down those 200+ restaurant choices , hundreds of ride choices, activity options, and more, and make sure to help you hand-craft the perfect vacation for YOUR family.

Mickey Waffle

Continuous, Personalized Support Throughout Your Vacation

And your Agent’s support doesn’t stop when you get to your resort. No matter what problems arise during your getaway — if your shuttle is canceled, your room isn’t ready, or you need to find a doctor — your Agent knows who to call to put your vacation back on track . They’re just a phone call or text message away no matter what goes down! And when hurricanes sweep through Orlando ( and they do! ), yep, your Travel Agent is working in your corner to help you sort through flight changes and everything that goes with it!

So whether you’re a spreadsheet-toting Disneyphile or a first-timer at the Disney rodeo, consider a Travel Agent. You may just be surprised by how much magic your Agent can conjure up just for you!

IT’S FREE AND EASY

What you get:, 1. a highly-qualified agent with expertise in planning your dream vacation, 2. savings of time and money, 3. a trouble-free trip, 4. no fees or charges — ever, ready to go, but not sure who to choose we highly recommend small world vacations , and here’s why:.

DFB highly recommends Small World Vacations for your trip to any Disney park, resort, or cruise ship.

1. I TRUST THEM:

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Disney World Tips

Can Travel Agents Get Better Deals?

Thread starter mrsclark
Start date May 25, 2015

DIS Veteran

May 25, 2015

In the past, I have always booked our trips through Disney directly (we drive so I am not talking about airfare just the resort and tickets). Can travel agents get better deals than those offered to the public through Disney? I am not asking for specific TA names because I know that can violate the Dis Board rules, but just in general. If they sometimes can get better rates, is it acceptable to get quotes from multiple TA's? I know there is another thread on here about whether or not to book through a TA that discusses having control or not having control of your reservation, but I am concerned with price only. If I could get a better price through a TA, I would consider booking through them. If the prices are the same for them and me I would just keep doing it myself.

Unapologetic Disney Fan(atic)

TAs cannot get you a better deal than you can get for yourself. However there is a travel agency that was able to offer better deals last year at certain resorts. Can't mention its name here, but you could try googling magical deals at WDW and see what comes up. Also, if you book thru Orbitz, they sometimes offer a discount that you can stack on top of Disney special offers.

Mr & Mrs DD

May 26, 2015

From my experience with a TA, we got a small discount, but not enough to really be that significant. We booked it ourselves this time.

My DW was going to book a trip through a TA to take advantage of the Free DDP (In November 2015). Got everything nailed down, but then the "Contract" came for her to sign and send back. She did not like the language of the contract, was uncomfortable sending here credit card info (via a Fax) back to them and a few other things. She ended up calling Disney directly. Got exactly the same thing, less hassle and no lengthy contract. I think for the most part it's probably preference and it seems like cost may be the same either way.

Retired and living 2 miles from The Castle.

I think the point to consider is that TA's (at least a good TA) will know about all the available discounts and can recommend the one that best suits you. An individual might be able to find a good deal but then again, they might miss an even better one. That's the value of a good TA.

I tend to go with a TA because it doesn't cost me any extra to do so and I might as well support a small business. One TA I used before would offer me a small Disney gift card as thanks. My current TA pays for an itinerary planning service. I tend to use them for booking my dining reservations (although I will tweak later on my own). I do my best to make sure I have a good TA though...because there is a risk since you are giving up control of a reservation. I frequent several Disney boards and chose my TA because she had been super helpful on the forum and sounded very knowledgeable. I can trust that she stays up to date on the latest news.

Earning My Ears

May 29, 2015

I've used a TA because I like to support the small business and because they keep track of the promotions as they come out. When free dining came out if it had been for my week (my trip starts the day it ends), he would have rebooked it for me, and saved me the hassle. That is worth a lot. He has also been great about recommending places or how long to spend at another park.

May 30, 2015

We used a TA two years ago because hubby won a trip at work and it required a TA. She did not get us a better deal and when we had to make a change at our resort (during magic band testing) we could not make any changes without her on the phone. It was extremely inconvenient and time consuming, but Disney did some awesome things to make up for it without us even asking. I would not use a TA again.

CheshireSteve

Jun 1, 2015

I don't think that TA's get better deals per se, but rather, they can use the commission that they receive to offer something additional to the customer ( DDP , onboard credit for cruises, etc) that you wouldn't get by booking directly through Disney.

srpresto said: When free dining came out if it had been for my week (my trip starts the day it ends), he would have rebooked it for me, and saved me the hassle. Click to expand...

peg110 said: (I really do think my DW gets almost as much enjoyment out of planning as she does when we are in the park.) Click to expand...

Jun 2, 2015

Yes, free dining ends on the day before i arrive so i am not able to take advantage.

srpresto said: Yes, free dining ends on the day before i arrive so i am not able to take advantage. Click to expand...

ChimCher-ee

There's been a change of plans..

Jun 10, 2015

I know we're talking about WDW here, but I have read that TAs can get you better deals on Disney cruises, especially if you're trying to book late in the game.

ChimCher-ee said: I know we're talking about WDW here, but I have read that TAs can get you better deals on Disney cruises, especially if you're trying to book late in the game. Click to expand...

Fantabulously Cherry

...just like my hair :p.

I have always used a TA and never got any discounts. Special deal packages for our trip? Yes.

anonymousegirl

CheshireSteve said: I don't think that TA's get better deals per se, but rather, they can use the commission that they receive to offer something additional to the customer (DDP, onboard credit for cruises, etc) that you wouldn't get by booking directly through Disney. Click to expand...

anonymousegirl said: So you are saying that the TA should give back their paycheck to the client? That's like asking a mechanic that just fixed your transmission, to give back part of what you paid him in the hope of future business. Click to expand...

Mouseketeer

We booked ours through AAA, and were so glad we did. Our travel agent went above and beyond to help. We gave her a list of restaurants and FP, and she had them all booked for us. When our trip in March got cancelled due to a snow storm, we gave her a call, and she had everything rebooked the same day. No special rates, but loved the added perks!

OnceUponATime15

Disney frequent flyer...

mrsclark said: In the past, I have always booked our trips through Disney directly (we drive so I am not talking about airfare just the resort and tickets). Can travel agents get better deals than those offered to the public through Disney? I am not asking for specific TA names because I know that can violate the Dis Board rules, but just in general. If they sometimes can get better rates, is it acceptable to get quotes from multiple TA's? I know there is another thread on here about whether or not to book through a TA that discusses having control or not having control of your reservation, but I am concerned with price only. If I could get a better price through a TA, I would consider booking through them. If the prices are the same for them and me I would just keep doing it myself. Click to expand...

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Is Being a Disney Travel Agent Worth It? (Pros and Cons)

As a huge fan of Disney travel, I’ve always been curious about the career path of a Disney travel agent, even though I’m not one myself. Through my connections in the industry, I have many friends who have turned their passion for Disney into a fulfilling career as a travel agent. This has led me to wonder about the pros and cons of this job and whether being a Disney travel agent is worth it .

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll explore the realities of working as a Disney travel agent, providing insights from experienced professionals to help you determine if this path is right for you .

Pros of Being a Disney Travel Agent

1. earning potential.

Disney travel agents can earn a good income , with full-time agents potentially making $50,000 or more per year . Your earning potential depends on factors such as the number of bookings you secure, the cost of the trips you book, and your commission split with your agency.

Disney typically pays travel agencies a commission ranging from 10% to 16% on the total cost of a vacation package. The agency then splits this commission with the individual agent.

Commission splits typically range from 50/50 for new agents to 80/20 for experienced agents, although some agencies may offer different splits. After subtracting the agency’s share of the commission, agents generally end up earning between 4% and 12.8% of the total cost of each trip booked.

For more information on Disney travel agent earning potential, check out our comprehensive guides on how much Disney travel agents make per year and how much they earn per booking .

To get a personalized estimate of your potential annual income, try our Disney Travel Agent Annual Income Calculator .

2. Turning Your Passion into a Career

One of the most significant advantages of being a Disney travel agent is the opportunity to turn your love for Disney into a career . Imagine spending your workdays planning magical vacations, sharing your knowledge, and helping others create unforgettable memories at Disney destinations. As a Disney enthusiast, the idea of immersing yourself in the world of Disney every day and making a living from it is incredibly appealing.

You’re already obsessed with Disney – Imagine getting paid for it!

Remember to keep things in perspective, though. Planning vacations day in and day out can be exciting, but burnout is a real possibility. Make sure that you’re not overdoing it to the point that you become jaded by something that you used to love.

3. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

As a Disney travel agent, you’ll often have the flexibility to set your own schedule and work from home . This can be especially appealing for those seeking a better work-life balance or looking to earn extra income while caring for family members. The ability to structure your day around your personal and family needs is a significant perk of this career.

Set up your workspace however you like it — it’s your home, after all!

Working from home offers flexibility, but it also requires self-discipline and the ability to manage time effectively. Because you’re working for commission only — no guaranteed salary — you need to keep at it in order to make a sustainable income. On the other hand, having clients calling, texting, and emailing from morning until night can creep into your “me time”; be sure to set some reasonable boundaries for your work schedule.

4. Travel Perks and Discounts

Many Disney travel agents have the opportunity to visit Disney destinations through FAM trips , which are familiarization trips provided by their agency. These trips allow agents to gain firsthand experience and knowledge, ultimately benefiting their clients. Agents may also receive free theme park tickets, discounts on personal travel, and other perks . The prospect of visiting Disney destinations as part of your job and taking advantage of exclusive discounts is an exciting bonus.

A Disney cruise ship docked at Castaway Cay

Setting sail on another research trip

You might even be able to take a tax deduction on some of your expenses. Note that this requires meticulous record-keeping and might necessitate hiring a CPA or other tax professional. Seek professional advice as we are not tax experts.

Cons of Being a Disney Travel Agent

1. variable, commission-based income.

Disney travel agents typically earn money through commissions rather than a fixed salary, which means your income can fluctuate based on the number of bookings you make and the cost of the trips you book. While it’s possible to earn a good income as a Disney travel agent, it’s not guaranteed .

Many agents book fewer trips than they hoped, especially early on. This makes it challenging to sustain a viable income. Building a consistent client base takes time and effort, which can be especially difficult for new agents. As a result, some may discontinue their career as a travel agent.

Even well-established agents are still subject to income fluctuation. You’ll likely see larger commission checks following the summer, spring break, and holiday travel periods — but should expect smaller checks in the off-season. Savvy budgeting is required so your income from the peaks can help carry you through the valleys.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for the potential ups and downs of a commission-based income , particularly in the early stages of your career when you’re still establishing your reputation and growing your client network.

2. High Competition

The Disney travel agent industry is highly competitive , with many agencies and agents competing for clients. Some elite agencies – such as The Vacationeer – invest in marketing and provide leads directly to their agents, while others have to find clients entirely on their own . To be successful, you’ll need to differentiate yourself through specialized knowledge, exceptional customer service, and effective marketing strategies.

Developing a strong personal brand and consistently promoting your services can be time-consuming and challenging, especially for new agents who are just starting to build their reputation and client base.

However, with hard work, dedication, and a genuine passion for Disney, it’s possible to stand out in this competitive landscape and attract clients.

3. Delayed Payments

Another potential drawback is that Disney travel agents don’t receive their commissions until after their clients have completed their trips . This delay can be several months — even a year or more — after the initial vacation booking date, which can impact cash flow and budgeting.

Graph portraying the delay between a trip being booked and commission being paid.

This can make your first year as a vacation planner extremely challenging both financially and mentally. You probably won’t see steady income from the start, and it’s easy to get discouraged because you’re doing a lot of work and not getting paid (yet). Surviving your early years in the travel profession requires perseverance.

It’s crucial to consider this factor carefully before pursuing a career as a Disney travel agent.

4. Keeping Up with Changes

Disney destinations are constantly evolving, with new attractions, resorts, and policies being introduced regularly. As a Disney travel agent, you’ll need to stay up-to-date with these changes to provide accurate information and advice to your clients. It will require significant time investment and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt.

Those who are most successful in this job are people who aren’t intimidated by change. If you regularly get frustrated because something isn’t quite the way it used to be, this career might not be for you.

Personal Insights from Three Disney Travel Agents

Sarah, a full-time Disney travel agent for eight years, shares,

“Being a Disney travel agent has been a dream come true for me. I get to share my passion for Disney with others and help them create magical memories. The earning potential is great, and the flexibility allows me to balance my work and family life. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else!”

Darrian, who has been a Disney travel agent for three years, provides a more balanced view.

“Working as a Disney travel agent has its ups and downs. I love helping people plan their dream vacations, and the commission-based income can be rewarding. However, it’s important to understand that success doesn’t happen overnight. Building a client base takes time and effort, and the delayed payments can be challenging, especially in the beginning. Overall, it’s worth it, but only if you’re really passionate about Disney and are willing to put in the work.”

Charlene, another full-time Disney travel agent, shares her experience:

“I’ve been working as a Disney travel agent for five years, and last year I earned around $45,000. Building a strong network of clients and consistently delivering exceptional service has been key to my success. It’s important to remember that this career requires dedication and effort, but the rewards are worth it.”

Is Being a Disney Travel Agent Right for You?

If you have a genuine passion for Disney and enjoy helping others create magical vacations, then being a Disney travel agent could be the perfect career for you. However, it’s crucial to carefully consider both the pros and cons of this path, as well as the earning potential, and develop the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure you’re ready for the challenge.

Success as a Disney travel agent requires a combination of passion, knowledge, and business savvy. It’s important to be realistic about the challenges , such as commission-based income, delayed payments, and high competition. This career path also requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to delivering first-rate service. Networking and hustling are essential skills to have, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

In my interviews with Disney travel agents, they acknowledged the downsides but overall felt the career was worth it for those with a genuine passion for all things Disney and a willingness to put in the effort to succeed . They emphasized that these two factors were crucial for success in this field.

While being a Disney travel agent may not suit everyone, it can be an incredibly worthwhile and rewarding career for those who are willing to put in the effort and love Disney destinations. If you share this passion, are ready to work hard, and can effectively manage the challenges of working independently, then a career as a Disney travel agent might be the perfect fit for you!

Getting Started as a Disney Travel Agent

If you’re interested in becoming a Disney travel agent , here are some essential steps to get started:

Research reputable Disney-focused travel agencies that offer competitive commission splits, comprehensive training, and support.
Review the character traits of successful Disney travel agents to determine if you possess the necessary skills and qualities.
Familiarize yourself with the job application process for Disney travel agents and tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience, knowledge, and passion for Disney.
Invest in the necessary equipment for Disney travel agents , such as a reliable computer, high-speed internet, and a dedicated workspace.
Continuously expand your knowledge of Disney destinations , products, and services to provide exceptional value to your clients.

Our Recommended Disney Travel Agencies to Work For

If you’re interested in becoming a Disney travel agent, the first step is to explore opportunities with reputable agencies. Our top picks are The Vacationeer and EnchantAway Travel .

EnchantAway Travel is an excellent option for those who want are brand new to the industry, and/or those who want to work part-time as a Disney travel agent. The agency offers flexibility and support to help you succeed.

The Vacationeer is a premium Earmarked Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agency, which is perfect for exceptional candidates who want to commit to full-time work and maximize their earnings.

Both agencies offer competitive commission splits of up to 80% , comprehensive training, and a strong focus on agent success.

We’re here to assist you in starting your travel agent journey. Click the button below to learn more about these two excellent Disney-focused travel agencies and receive our insider tips for making your application stand out from the rest .

With hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, you can turn your love for Disney into a satisfying and successful career.

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About the author: joshua powell.

Do Disney Travel Agents Get Commission on Annual Passes?

5 ways using an authorized Disney vacation planner will help you save money and improve your trip

Editor's Note

It's not uncommon to begin planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation a year or more before you actually step into the Magic Kingdom and lay your eyes on Cinderella Castle. It can be a whirlwind of ticket purchases, hotel bookings, dining reservations and itinerary planning that can be overwhelming even for frequent Disney World-goers.

Luckily, there are magical genies who will plan your vacation for you ... and you don't have to make the daring journey to the Cave of Wonders or even spend one extra penny to find them.

Related: A magical guide for how to plan a trip to Disney World this year

Authorized Disney vacation planners are only an email or a phone call away, and they will help you plan the Disney trip of your dreams at no cost to you.

Yes, this is real, and no, there's no catch. This works because Disney vacation planners make their money off commissions they receive from Disney when you book a trip through them. Their vacation prices are not inflated, and as we'll discuss, they can often help you find the best available rates.

Here are the top five reasons you should use an authorized Disney vacation planner to book your next trip to Disney World.

They do all the work

Booking a Disney hotel and buying theme park tickets may seem easy enough, but a complex array of options and add-ons can make it daunting to do anything from picking the best Disney World hotel for your trip to choosing the best Disney World restaurants for your family.

"The goal of a travel agent specializing in Disney destinations is to take the guesswork out of your vacation and make it as stress-free and seamless as possible," Mary Helen Law, a Disney travel agent with Mouse Counselors, told TPG. "We will take the details you give us and use them to curate a trip specifically designed for the needs and preferences of your family."

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Popular add-ons like behind-the-scenes tours and character meals book up well in advance. If you have your heart set on brunch with Mickey and Minnie, you sometimes have to be faster than Dash from "The Incredibles" to secure your spot.

Unless, of course, you use an authorized Disney vacation planner.

On a recent visit, I wanted to try out the newly reintroduced Disney Dining Plan . By booking through Mouse Counselors, they reserved my hotel room and added the Disney Dining Plan for me. I didn't have to lift a finger.

"Certain add-on experiences like a princess makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or a behind-the-scenes tour of Magic Kingdom open at midnight or 6 a.m. Eastern time, so having someone else handle the booking can be advantageous," Law shared. "Many agents will also take care of scheduling airport transfers and crib and stroller rentals," she added.

Related: The best credit cards for your Disney vacation

For the best possible experience, you should provide a few important pieces of information for your vacation planner.

"We'll obviously need your dates and the names and ages of everyone in your travel party, but there are other details that can help us build the best vacation for you," Law said. "If you aren't familiar with the details of Disney World hotels, for example, you can help us find the right one by telling us what you are looking for in a hotel. Do you want proximity to a certain park or the best pool for kids? Are you on a budget, or do you want to splurge?"

Knowing the answers to these questions before you begin working with your planner can help them guide you in the right direction.

They actively search for discounts

It's no secret that "Disney World" and "budget vacation" aren't exactly synonymous, but there are ways to save money on a visit to Walt Disney World .

Disney periodically offers discounted tickets and hotel sales that can help you save hundreds on your vacation.

Availability for these discounts is limited, though, and you sometimes have to stalk Disney's website so you don't miss out when a new offer is released. However, a good Disney vacation planner, whose literal job is booking Disney trips, will be up bright and early to ensure you get one of the discounted rooms or packages when they are released.

Related: Are the Disney Visa credit cards worth it?

They also monitor your reservation for price drops. If prices decrease for your dates, they can wave their magic wand and modify your existing reservation to take advantage of the lower price.

This is exactly what Law was able to do for me on a recent stay at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. As a Disney World annual passholder, I was eligible for a hotel discount. After my initial booking, Law applied the discount, saving me nearly $100.

They can plan your itinerary

If you're paying a large sum for a vacation, the last thing you want to do is wait in long lines, miss out on activities because you're in the wrong place at the wrong time or spend time doing things you don't want to do. If you want to maximize your time at Disney, you need a wealth of knowledge to know what to do and when to do it.

You can research and learn much of it yourself. However, if you're a once- or twice-in-a-lifetime Disney visitor, researching crowd calendars and in-depth planning guides may not be the best use of your time.

Related: Disney World making changes to simplify visits and bringing back a fan-favorite perk

Without a doubt, having your vacation planner lay out a daily itinerary for your specific dates is a valuable asset. Before you book, you need to find out how detailed your vacation planner will be if that is a service you are interested in. However, this is where your agent's time may come at a bit of a cost to you.

"Most agents do offer help with itinerary planning, but some charge a fee for this service and some don't offer it at all," Law said. "It's important to speak to your agent before booking to ensure you are on the same page with the expected level of hands-on service."

When I booked through Mouse Counselors, Law sent me a thorough guide that detailed how to mobile order food from quick-service restaurants, how to use Genie+ and Lightning Lanes to skip the lines, how to use transportation options in the park, how to use my MagicBand+ or phone as my park ticket and hotel room key, and so much more. As a frequent visitor, I was aware of most of these tips, but they are helpful details you may be unfamiliar with if you don't visit Disney often.

You can be as involved as you want

If you're a Type A personality and want to be involved in every step along the way, you can work hand in hand with your vacation planner to ensure you're comfortable with the itinerary and cost of your trip.

If you're hands-off and want someone to handle all the details and tell you where to go and when, you can also do that.

"In addition to booking your vacation, travel agents can assist with navigating the Disney app, linking your resort reservation and explaining the Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane systems," Law said.

It's also possible for your Disney vacation planner to make your dining reservations at the exact time they open up to you before your trip. Your experience with your agent is entirely up to you, but if "Genie+" and "Lightning Lane" are foreign terms to you, your Disney vacation planner can guide you.

I prefer making my own dining reservations, but Law ensured I knew she was at my service if I needed assistance.

It's free

Other than a cup of ice water and the celebratory buttons available at each park, there's not much that's truly free at Disney World.

However, an agent's booking services come at no cost to you. Disney pays authorized Disney vacation planners commissions from the sales of hotel rooms, tickets, dining packages and more.

They can book anything you see online or find the lower prices you may not have found yourself. So, while your trip to Disney probably won't be inexpensive, the benefit of having an agent doesn't add to the cost.

Some agents may charge an additional fee for specific add-on services, but most Disney vacation planners offer the majority of their services free of charge to travelers booking a Disney trip.

Do know that they make their money off commissions from Disney. This means if you book the bulk of your hotel expenses yourself elsewhere, it may not make sense to work with a vacation planner on that trip unless you do find one who charges a la carte fees for planning services.

Bottom line

Not only can these planners book trips to Disney World, but they can typically also book trips to Disneyland , aboard Disney Cruise Line ships , with Adventures by Disney and to Disney's Aulani Resort in Hawaii.

To that end, TPG has partnered with Mouse Counselors, an authorized Disney vacation planner ; this allows our readers to use an agent at a company we've had good experiences with at no additional cost. If devoting a chunk of time to planning a Disney trip doesn't make sense for you, give an authorized Disney vacation planner a try.

After all, they are the magic-making experts.

What happens if a discount comes out after I book my trip to Disney World?

By: Author Heather Thomas

Published: May 4, 2022 Updated: September 8, 2023

What happens if a discount comes out after I book my trip to Disney World?

Free Dining. Summer promotions. Annual Passholder rates.

Discounts are sometimes like the Golden Ticket of Disney trips. We hope they are out there and that we’ll be lucky enough to snag one.

But what do you do if a discount comes out AFTER you’ve already booked?

Well … it kind of depends.

How a Disney World discount works

First of all, discounts are never, ever guaranteed . You should never set your heart on it because just when you do, Disney will whisk it away (along with all of your hopes and dreams).

Second, not all room categories OR even resorts will be eligible for a Disney World discount.

Remember: Disney doesn’t offer discounts to be “nice.” They offer discounts to sell rooms.

So if rooms are selling well or always sell well (I’m looking at you, Little Mermaid Rooms at Art of Animation), they aren’t going to offer discounts there.

But – Club Level at the Yacht Club? Yep. You’ll probably see discounts offered there.

What do you do if a discount comes out after you book?

You have a few options:

Modify your reservation online (Best option)

If a discount drops after you’ve already booked, time is of the essence.

You’ll want to log into your My Disney Experience Account, and then locate your reservation. From there, look for a “Change” or ‘Modify” button. Click that.

After you do that, you’ll be able to see if your current reservation is eligible for the discount or if you’ll need to change to another resort or room category to snag it.

Want to see this process step-by-step?

Get the steps to modify an existing reservation.

Have your travel agent modify it (Best v. 2.0)

If you have a good travel agent, you shouldn’t have to do anything.

When discounts are released, they’ll likely be up way before you checking to see if the newly released discount can be applied and if it can, they’ll re-book it before you’re even showered and dressed for the day.

Cancel and rebook. (Best if things go wrong)

I know this will be surprising, BUT sometimes Disney tech can have some…glitches. And, sometimes, reservations (for a variety of reasons) can’t be modified online.

In those instances, your best bet is to just re-book a new trip, and after you’ve secured the new reservation, cancel your old one. But only do this if your trip is further than 30 days away (if it is a package) or 5 days if it is a Room Only reservation.

Yes, this option is a hassle because you’ll have to wait for your original deposit to go back into your account, BUT if you are trying to get a super competitive discount (like Free Dining ), time is of the essence; even just an hour delay can mean losing out – so the faster you can book something the better.

If all else fails, call.

If you don’t have a travel agent and you can’t modify online or if you need help, you’ll need to call.

Keep in mind, though, that the phone lines often open HOURS after discounts can be booked online, SO if you have to wait to call, you’ll be behind the game.

Phone number —>1 (407) 939-1936

Something to keep in mind about applying a Disney World discount:

Whenever you modify a reservation, you might find yourself subject to new pricing and fees.

For example, if you originally booked a trip BEFORE a ticket price increase, but you want to modify it and add a discount code AFTER a ticket price increase, your package will be subject to the new ticket prices. In some instances, this can eat up a lot of the “savings,” so be sure you DOUBLE-CHECK the numbers before you do anything.

Monday 17th of May 2021

Does anyone know where I can find my tickets and reservations on the UK version of the app?

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Is a travel agent worth it the pros and cons.

Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner.

The Pros & Cons of Using a Travel Agent

Married couple with baby son in modern travel agency talking to a travel agent.

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A travel agent can save you money and time.

Need to pivot your trip plans but don't want to deal with the extra time, money and hassle of rebooking flights and accommodations on your own? That's just one area where a knowledgeable travel agent (also commonly known as a travel advisor) can help. Read on to discover the other benefits – as well as the downsides – of using a travel agent, so you can confidently decide whether or not a travel agent is worth it for your next trip.

The Pros of Using a Travel Agent

Travel agents can save you money – and get you other perks.

"In some cases, you'll actually get a better deal by working with a travel agent," says Jackie Steele, travel expert at MagicGuides . "This could be in the form of a cruise onboard credit (free spending money to use on the ship), access to special agency/group rates, or even just learning about a discount you qualify for but weren't aware of." The best agents will even keep an eye on new discounts as they're announced and apply them to your trip even after you've booked, he notes.

Travel agents handle all the details

Hotel room? Booked. Dinner reservations? Made. Tour tickets? Ready to go. A travel agent handles every detail of your vacation itinerary. "The traveler still gets to be involved in the fun part of dreaming up ideas and providing their travel wishes, while we take and perfect them," says Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer .

Molly McShea, owner and travel advisor at McShea Travel , points out that travel agents can also help with timing logistics. "Travel agents know how many days should be spent in each destination, which tours go together, and how many things you should do in a day," she says, adding that crafting an itinerary can be challenging if it's not something you regularly do. Additionally, travel agents can help you choose the best time to visit your preferred destination(s) based on seasonality and your budget, and sift through travel insurance policies to find the best option for your needs.

Travel agents can provide local expertise

"A travel advisor's industry connections and relationships provide added value to their clients," says Valerie Edman, a luxury travel advisor and agency owner at Cultured Travel LLC. She says when working with a travel agent, travelers gain access to a global network of connections including:

In-destination specialists who work exclusively with travel advisors and can connect travelers with unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences they wouldn't otherwise know about
Exclusive experiences not available to the general public

You'll avoid surprise fees

When deciding if a travel agent is worth it for you, remember this: A reputable agent can guarantee you won't encounter any surprise fees on accommodations and activities once your trip is booked.

You'll have someone to troubleshoot unexpected travel issues

A travel advisor is essentially your personal vacation concierge. "Because they've been around for so long, agents really know what to look for," says Christopher Elliott , a consumer advocate and journalist. "Travel agents are among the first to know about flight cancellations and delays , making it easy for them to rebook itineraries right away."

The Cons of Using a Travel Agent

It might not be your cheapest option.

There are some instances when it makes more sense to plan your own trip. "If you're planning a quick flight from New York City to Los Angeles, it's easy enough to book it yourself online directly or through a third-party booking site," says Elliott. "If you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or bucket list honeymoon , that's when you call the experts."

You'll have less flexibility in your itinerary

The upside of working with a travel agent is having someone plan an epic vacation for you based on industry knowledge and local expertise. But this can also be a downside in the event you discover an activity you'd like to do or a restaurant you'd like to try that isn't on your pre-planned itinerary. If you alter your plans, you risk losing money; plus, the time it takes for you and your travel agent to coordinate your change of plans may not be worth the hassle.

You still have to do some research

It's important to find an agent you can trust, which means you still have to do some of the vacation planning. For this part, Parker recommends picking up the phone. "Lots of people avoid or don't pick up the phone as much anymore," she says. "That's where you get the high-touch service, tone of voice, excitement or concerns to manage." She advises to look for the following red flags:

No fees: " Travel advisors are charging planning fees more now or increasing them, so the client knows more confidently than ever, we work for them, not the suppliers with the best commissions," Parker explains. "There are a lot of things that are non-commissionable and the advisor's time and expertise shouldn't be given away for free, either. That's the best way to show an advisor takes their business seriously."
Limited options: If you work with someone who is inexperienced or has an incentive to book you with a certain supplier, they may not be prioritizing your best interests. "It's important to check if they are with a larger consortia, accreditations and network, typically listed on their website and signatures," says Parker. "That level of mindshare doesn't come with a lone advisor unless they have many, many years of experience."
Slow response times: If communication is delayed, that's a sign they may be too busy to plan your trip – but again, this is something you can avoid by having the right conversations early on.

Edman suggestes starting your search with the American Society of Travel Advisors . "ASTA-verified travel advisors are committed to the highest industry standards and have verifiable industry knowledge so consumers can feel confident in working with them," she says.

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Why you should be using a Travel Agent to book your Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Line is back to sailing with four ships and a fifth one coming this summer! The ships sail to multiple destinations around the world. While you could go online and book your Disney cruise yourself, using a travel agent is more beneficial to you. Here’s why!

Related – Does Disney Cruise Line offer any discounts?

Travel Agents Don’t Cost Extra

Authorized Disney travel agents don’t charge a fee for their services. The commission travel agents make is already included in the price of the cruise. So, the price is the same whether you book it yourself or with a travel agent. Why not use a travel agent and have the extra help for no extra cost?

Disney Cruise Line Knowledge

As an authorized Disney travel agent, I keep up with all of the changes and updates to the Disney Cruise Line. I’ll make sure you’re kept up to date on everything you need to know. Covid-19 policies and procedures, different staterooms, cruise destinations, port adventures, dining times, and so much more!

Related – Common Travel Agent Myths Busted

Special Offers

Disney Cruise Line occasionally has special offers and deals. Your travel agent will make sure you’re aware of the deals so you can save as much money as possible! I’ll also keep an eye out in case an offer is released after you’ve booked your cruise. If the offer applies to your cruise, I can get it applied.

Don’t have time to be online trying to figure everything out? Don’t want to sit on hold if you need to make a change or payment? Your travel agent does that for you! Travel agents want to make sure their clients are happy and taken care of so they will do all the work required to get the cruise booked.

Seasonal/Themed Cruises

Disney Cruise Line offers Halloween and Christmas sailings along with themed cruises. You can enjoy Marvel Day at Sea or Pixar Day at Sea. These special cruises only happen at certain times of the year. If you want to experience one of these sailings, your travel agent will make sure you have all of the information and dates.

If you need transportation from the airport or your resort to the cruise port, your travel agent can help you book that. Want to add pre-paid gratuities to your cruise? Your travel agent can do that! If you’d like to add a pre or post-cruise hotel stay, your travel agent can help with that as well! Your travel agent will also make sure you know when your dates open to book port adventures and other extras you might want to book for your cruise.

Have you ever sailed with Disney Cruise Line?

If you are ready to plan your next Disney cruise, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical Disney cruise!

Why you should be using a Travel Agent to book your Disney Cruise 2

Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.

Get started Now for your FREE No Obligation Quote.

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Is it better to book a cruise through a travel agent? We say yes

G oing online to book an airline ticket or hotel stay is a familiar and fairly easy transaction. When you book a cruise, however — particularly your first cruise — you might want to reconsider the impulse to handle the transaction yourself through a cruise line website or an online advertiser with cheap prices. This DIY approach might not be the best way to find your dream vacation at sea.

In reality, it's not that simple to book a cruise. You will likely run into a lot of questions to which you have no ready answer.

That's where specialized cruise travel agents come into play. Their expertise can help you avoid mistakes, whether you are a first-timer or a repeat cruiser checking out a brand you have not tried before.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Why you should book through a cruise travel agent

You should consider booking a cruise through a travel agent because a knowledgeable agent can help you understand the nuances of a cruise purchase and help you make the best decisions for your vacation preferences.

When you book a cruise, you are making a vacation decision that goes way beyond a flight or hotel nights. Which ship you choose determines your dining and evening entertainment choices for the duration of your vacation. Which itinerary you choose impacts which destinations you'll visit and which shoreside activities will be available to you. It can be overwhelming to evaluate the options on your own if you've never cruised before.

In addition, cruise fares can be hard to understand and compare. You might, for instance, see a fare listed online without the port charges, taxes and fees, which you only see after you give your personal details.

Plus, the price of your cruise includes accommodations, meals, entertainment and activities — and in some cases drinks, tips, shore excursions, Wi-Fi and other extras. There's a lot bundled into some fares and not as much with others. A travel agent can help you determine what your cruise fare gets you. The cheapest base cruise fare does not always provide the best value or best overall vacation deal.

Related: 4 scenarios when you should use a travel agent

You aren't just booking general passage on a ship, either, as you will be asked to pick a specific cabin and when you prefer to dine. Making a mistake in these categories can ruin your cruise experience, as there are such thing as "bad" cabins and dining times (think noisy or claustrophobic cabins, dinner at 8 p.m. with cranky children, etc.).

With cruises, you typically don't pay for your whole vacation upfront but rather put down a deposit, with final payment due at a later date. A cruise travel agent can ensure you don't miss any due dates.

Remember, you might be a DIY type when booking airlines and hotels, but booking a cruise is more complex. If you enjoy doing your own research, focus on what to do and see in the ports of call. Read about different ships, cruise lines and itineraries. However, when it comes to booking the cruise, we recommend you still contact a travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you learn a few tips and avoid any rookie mistakes.

Travel agents can get better deals on cruises

If you're concerned that working with an agent will make your cruise more expensive, don't be. Cruise travel agents receive the bulk of their income via commission from the cruise lines. Their service to you is usually free, though some might charge first-time clients a minimal fee. It's worth it.

In addition to sharing their expertise, the agent may have negotiated group space at lower rates with the cruise line, which could save you money on the cruise fare. The agent might also have first access to sale prices because the cruise lines notify their agent partners and loyalty club members first before they announce a sale to the public.

Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise

Some cruise travel agents even throw in booking perks , such as a complimentary bottle of Champagne, awaiting your arrival in your cabin.

How to find a travel agent for a cruise

Cruise lines prefer that you use a travel agent rather than going online and booking directly. They have small in-house reservation teams, and when you have a question while making a booking, good luck in getting an expert on the phone in a timely manner.

Companies such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line provide online directories to help you find an experienced cruise travel agent near you.

You can also find experienced and certified cruise travel agents through CLIA, the Cruise Lines International Association , which is the industry's main marketing group. Asking friends who have cruised to recommend a travel agent is another good idea.

Related: 5 unexpected places that sell cruises

You might get more personalized care from smaller agencies than from the huge online agencies, though websites such as icruise.com, Cruise.com and Cruise411.com also have experienced cruise agents. These larger online travel agencies can be a good option for those who prefer to make decisions and ask questions via chat. Just make sure you get the name and phone number of the representative for any follow-up questions.

Questions to ask a cruise travel agent

In choosing a cruise travel agent, you will want to tap into the person's specific expertise about the cruise line and ship you are considering. Anyone can read a ship deck plan outlining ship spaces (which you can find online), but you are looking for people who really know their stuff.

Look for travel agencies that are cruise-only or a home-based agent who specializes in cruises. If you are using a full-service travel agency, ask for the cruise desk.

Here are some questions to ask a travel agent to determine their expertise:

How often do you cruise?
Have you cruised on the line I am considering?
Have you cruised on the ship that I am considering, or do you have clients who have cruised that ship and provided a review of their vacation?
Do you have firsthand knowledge about the cruise destination? The itinerary?

You will also want to ask the travel agent if they have a preferred relationship or negotiated agreement with any specific lines that could lead to special perks for you.

Be aware that not all agents work with all cruise lines; some represent only a few preferred suppliers or specialize in higher-end cruises. They get bigger commissions from their preferred lines.

This is not necessarily a bad thing, but be aware if the agent seems to be putting you off the line you were originally considering, as this could be the reason. On the plus side, an agent who is a preferred supplier might have negotiated rates with the cruise line and be able to call in favors, such as that bottle of Champagne or a cabin upgrade .

You should also ask if the travel agency offers 24/7 assistance (usually an 800 number) in case you have last-minute questions or something goes wrong before or during your trip.

The cruise travel agent should have questions for you as well, to better understand your dream vacation desires. If you are calling a cruise agency for the first time, the agent should be interviewing you as much as you are interviewing him or her. The agent should be focused on helping you choose the cruise line , ship and cabin that is right for you. Making the correct choices is very important to your overall cruise experience.

Bottom line

Booking a cruise is a complex enterprise. A cruise travel agent will guide you through choosing your cabin and dining times, deposits and final payment, and options for shore excursions and specialty dining. If you need to cancel the trip, the agent will also help you through the refund process. You'll have a lot less stress before and during your vacation if you book with an experienced agent.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
Top ways cruisers waste money
The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces New Actions to Secure the Border

New actions will bar migrants who cross our Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum Biden taking action as Congressional Republicans put partisan politics ahead of national security, twice voting against toughest reforms in decades

Since his first day in office, President Biden has called on Congress to secure our border and address our broken immigration system. Over the past three years, while Congress has failed to act, the President has acted to secure our border. His Administration has deployed the most agents and officers ever to address the situation at the Southern border, seized record levels of illicit fentanyl at our ports of entry, and brought together world leaders on a framework to deal with changing migration patterns that are impacting the entire Western Hemisphere. Earlier this year, the President and his team reached a historic bipartisan agreement with Senate Democrats and Republicans to deliver the most consequential reforms of America’s immigration laws in decades. This agreement would have added critical border and immigration personnel, invested in technology to catch illegal fentanyl, delivered sweeping reforms to the asylum system, and provided emergency authority for the President to shut down the border when the system is overwhelmed. But Republicans in Congress chose to put partisan politics ahead of our national security, twice voting against the toughest and fairest set of reforms in decades. President Biden believes we must secure our border. That is why today, he announced executive actions to bar migrants who cross our Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum. These actions will be in effect when high levels of encounters at the Southern Border exceed our ability to deliver timely consequences, as is the case today. They will make it easier for immigration officers to remove those without a lawful basis to remain and reduce the burden on our Border Patrol agents. But we must be clear: this cannot achieve the same results as Congressional action, and it does not provide the critical personnel and funding needed to further secure our Southern border. Congress still must act. The Biden-Harris Administration’s executive actions will: Bar Migrants Who Cross the Southern Border Unlawfully From Receiving Asylum

President Biden issued a proclamation under Immigration and Nationality Act sections 212(f) and 215(a) suspending entry of noncitizens who cross the Southern border into the United States unlawfully. This proclamation is accompanied by an interim final rule from the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security that restricts asylum for those noncitizens.
These actions will be in effect when the Southern border is overwhelmed, and they will make it easier for immigration officers to quickly remove individuals who do not have a legal basis to remain in the United States.
These actions are not permanent. They will be discontinued when the number of migrants who cross the border between ports of entry is low enough for America’s system to safely and effectively manage border operations. These actions also include similar humanitarian exceptions to those included in the bipartisan border agreement announced in the Senate, including those for unaccompanied children and victims of trafficking.

Recent Actions to secure our border and address our broken immigration system: Strengthening the Asylum Screening Process

The Department of Homeland Security published a proposed rule to ensure that migrants who pose a public safety or national security risk are removed as quickly in the process as possible rather than remaining in prolonged, costly detention prior to removal. This proposed rule will enhance security and deliver more timely consequences for those who do not have a legal basis to remain in the United States.

Announced new actions to more quickly resolve immigration cases

The Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security launched a Recent Arrivals docket to more quickly resolve a portion of immigration cases for migrants who attempt to cross between ports of entry at the Southern border in violation of our immigration laws.
Through this process, the Department of Justice will be able to hear these cases more quickly and the Department of Homeland Security will be able to more quickly remove individuals who do not have a legal basis to remain in the United States and grant protection to those with valid claims.
The bipartisan border agreement would have created and supported an even more efficient framework for issuing final decisions to all asylum seekers. This new process to reform our overwhelmed immigration system can only be created and funded by Congress.

Revoked visas of CEOs and government officials who profit from migrants coming to the U.S. unlawfully

The Department of State imposed visa restrictions on executives of several Colombian transportation companies who profit from smuggling migrants by sea. This action cracks down on companies that help facilitate unlawful entry into the United States, and sends a clear message that no one should profit from the exploitation of vulnerable migrants.
The State Department also imposed visa restrictions on over 250 members of the Nicaraguan government, non-governmental actors, and their immediate family members for their roles in supporting the Ortega-Murillo regime, which is selling transit visas to migrants from within and beyond the Western Hemisphere who ultimately make their way to the Southern border.
Previously, the State Department revoked visas of executives of charter airlines for similar actions.

Expanded Efforts to Dismantle Human Smuggling and Support Immigration Prosecutions

The Departments of State and Justice launched an “Anti-Smuggling Rewards” initiative designed to dismantle the leadership of human smuggling organizations that bring migrants through Central America and across the Southern U.S. border. The initiative will offer financial rewards for information leading to the identification, location, arrest, or conviction of those most responsible for significant human smuggling activities in the region.
The Department of Justice will seek new and increased penalties against human smugglers to properly account for the severity of their criminal conduct and the human misery that it causes.
The Department of Justice is also partnering with the Department of Homeland Security to direct additional prosecutors and support staff to increase immigration-related prosecutions in crucial border U.S. Attorney’s Offices. Efforts include deploying additional DHS Special Assistant United States Attorneys to different U.S. Attorneys’ offices, assigning support staff to critical U.S. Attorneys’ offices, including DOJ Attorneys to serve details in U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in several border districts, and partnering with federal agencies to identify additional resources to target these crimes.

Enhancing Immigration Enforcement

The Department of Homeland Security has surged agents to the Southern border and is referring a record number of people into expedited removal.
The Department of Homeland Security is operating more repatriation flights per week than ever before. Over the past year, DHS has removed or returned more than 750,000 people, more than in every fiscal year since 2010.
Working closely with partners throughout the region, the Biden-Harris Administration is identifying and collaborating on enforcement efforts designed to stop irregular migration before migrants reach our Southern border, expand investment and integration opportunities in the region to support those who may otherwise seek to migrate, and increase lawful pathways for migrants as an alternative to irregular migration.

Seizing Fentanyl at our Border

Border officials have seized more fentanyl at ports of entry in the last two years than the past five years combined, and the President has added 40 drug detection machines across points of entry to disrupt the fentanyl smuggling into the Homeland. The bipartisan border agreement would fund the installation of 100 additional cutting-edge inspection machines to help detect fentanyl at our Southern border ports of entry.
In close partnership with the Government of Mexico, the Department of Justice has extradited Nestor Isidro Perez Salaz, known as “El Nini,” from Mexico to the United States to face prosecution for his role in illicit fentanyl trafficking and human rights abuses. This is one of many examples of joint efforts with Mexico to tackle the fentanyl and synthetic drug epidemic that is killing so many people in our countries and globally, and to hold the drug trafficking organizations to account.

Stay Connected

We'll be in touch with the latest information on how President Biden and his administration are working for the American people, as well as ways you can get involved and help our country build back better.

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IMAGES

Do Disney travel agents get better deals?
The Ultimate Guide To Disney World Travel Agents
Who Are the Best Disney World Travel Agents
15 Reasons You Should Use a Disney Travel Agent
7 Reasons why a Disney Travel Agent will make your trip 100% better
How Do Disney Travel Agents Get Paid? Exploring Commission Structures

COMMENTS

Is It Cheaper to Book Disney Through a Travel Agent?
From time to time, Disney releases special promotional rates on hotels, dining, tickets, and vacation packages. Disney travel agents match the deals that Disney offers through its own website. Disney travel agents get their clients the lowest possible rates. If a better discount comes along after a trip is already booked, then they will go back
Pros and Cons of Using a Disney World Travel Agent
Table of Contents. Pros and Cons of Using a Disney Travel Agent. Choosing A Disney World Travel Agent. Benefits of Using a Disney Travel Agent. Reducing Your Vacation Planning Stress. Knowledge of the Best Accommodations. Help Plan Your Dining Reservations. Help Save You Money.
booking directly through Disney vs. travel agent
They are an Offical Disney Travel Agent. Everything can be done online. You have an Agent to e-mail with. You can chat with your Agent anytime. If any better Deals come along, they can Modify your Reservation for you, they will keep an eye out for better deals for you. They can even make all your Dining Reservations if you want. The Service is ...
Why You Should Use A Disney Travel Agent
The second biggest reason to use an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner is the time-savings. This has become a particularly pronounced advantage in the last couple of years, and is arguably the biggest reason to use a travel agent now-especially if you're already knowledgeable about Disney. Currently, Walt Disney World and Disneyland both ...
The Ultimate Guide To Disney World Travel Agents
1. They've Proven Themselves: DFB's AJ Wolfe and Sue Pisaturo, the owner of the agency, have been friends and colleagues for years. Small World Travel is also respected and used by other leaders in the Disney Media and Travel industry by people who KNOW DISNEY and have been in the Disney travel arena for dozens of years.
Why you Should Use a Disney Travel Agent for Your Trip
A Disney Travel Agent can help make your life easier! By nature, a Disney vacation can be stressful. This is with the exception of a Disney Cruise, which should be nothing but relaxing. But a trip to the Parks can be stressful to plan, and sometimes stressful to participate in. Your Disney Travel Agent can make sure you are set up for success ...
Should I Use a Travel Agent for Disney world?
Save your booty (arghhh money) by using experienced travel agents (Photo by Bayley Clark) Although the travel planners do not have any better deals than anyone else, they search for the best discounts and will get up at the crack of dawn to book specials before they are sold out. They monitor your reservation for discounts that can be applied even after you have booked your trip.
Should you use a Disney travel agent?
Travel agents can often get better deals on group bookings, since negotiating with the supplier is something agencies can do. Cons of using a Disney travel agent ... This was significantly better than any Disney discount for this time period. Also I got 10% off park tickets and a free water park passes.
Disney Travel Agents
They can make resort, dining, and other recommendations that will enhance your trip. They can help you travel like a VIP by sharing tips, tricks, and additional first-hand information. Also, some agencies monitor the release of Disney discounts daily to ensure their guests are receiving the best price.
Do's and Don'ts: Booking Disney Travel
Agents are dialed into Disney's promotions and actively search for better deals; they'll let you know when a discount is available. It'll come as no surprise that we heartily recommend TouringPlans travel , but if you have a favorite Disney-specialist travel agent they can certainly help you out as well.
Should I Use a Travel Agent for My Disney Trip or Disney Cruise in 2024?
Here's where a Travel Agent can be a super-valuable asset. Disney travel agents know: The most popular restaurants and when they need to be booked. How to get those super-coveted reservations. Alternatives to those restaurants if they're full. What rides, attractions, and events will suit your family's unique needs.
Can Travel Agents Get Better Deals?
Mar 8, 2011. May 25, 2015. #2. TAs cannot get you a better deal than you can get for yourself. However there is a travel agency that was able to offer better deals last year at certain resorts. Can't mention its name here, but you could try googling magical deals at WDW and see what comes up.
Is Being a Disney Travel Agent Worth It? (Pros and Cons)
1. Earning Potential. Disney travel agents can earn a good income, with full-time agents potentially making $50,000 or more per year. Your earning potential depends on factors such as the number of bookings you secure, the cost of the trips you book, and your commission split with your agency.
Why you should book your next Disney World trip through a Disney
TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY They do all the work. Booking a Disney hotel and buying theme park tickets may seem easy enough, but a complex array of options and add-ons can make it daunting to do anything from picking the best Disney World hotel for your trip to choosing the best Disney World restaurants for your family. "The goal of a travel agent specializing in Disney destinations is to ...
What happens if a discount comes out after I book my trip to Disney
If all else fails, call. If you don't have a travel agent and you can't modify online or if you need help, you'll need to call. Keep in mind, though, that the phone lines often open HOURS after discounts can be booked online, SO if you have to wait to call, you'll be behind the game. Phone number —>1 (407) 939-1936.
Is a Travel Agent Still Worth It? The Pros & Cons
Travel agents can save you money - and get you other perks "In some cases, you'll actually get a better deal by working with a travel agent," says Jackie Steele, travel expert at MagicGuides ...
10 Things you didn't know about Disney Travel Agents!
8) Disney World Travel Agents Have Invaluable Expert Knowledge. Your travel agent will know Disney inside and out. This kind of knowledge is seriously invaluable when it comes to having a magical time at Disney, and you will be so thankful you had it. Not only will they be able to help you plan your time in the park, but they have extensive ...
Why would a Disney travel agent try to save you money on your trip?
They only get paid if you actually book something. Many people return to Disney so they want you to feel like they provided you with a valuable service. Travel agents also get lots of business from referrals so it's in their best interest to get the booking whether it's big commission or small commission. 2. Reply.
Why you should be using a Travel Agent to book your Disney Cruise
Disney Cruise Line occasionally has special offers and deals. Your travel agent will make sure you're aware of the deals so you can save as much money as possible! I'll also keep an eye out in case an offer is released after you've booked your cruise. If the offer applies to your cruise, I can get it applied. Save Time.
Why Use A Travel Agent To Book A Disney Cruise
One of the best ways to save money on your Disney Cruise is to book another one while you're onboard and then transfer the reservation within 30 days to your Travel Agent. Pro tip: you cannot have paid in full to transfer to a TA (Travel Agent). This way, you'll get 10% off your placeholder plus the potential onboard credit.
How beneficial is it to book with "Booking agents" vs just ...
Also Starcruiser hold music is so much better than normal Disney music. ... Travel agents do not get any special deals. They get the same price that you would pay on your own. What you get by using a TA at no extra cost to you is essentially having a Disney resource at your fingertips. They will know of any new deals coming up, can recommend ...
Is it better to book a cruise through a travel agent? We say yes
Travel agents can get better deals on cruises. If you're concerned that working with an agent will make your cruise more expensive, don't be. Cruise travel agents receive the bulk of their income ...
Travel News, Tips, and Guides
The latest travel news, deals, guides and tips from the travel experts at USA TODAY. All the travel insights you need to plan your dream vacation.
FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces New Actions to Secure the Border
New actions will bar migrants who cross our Southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum Biden taking action as Congressional Republicans put partisan politics ahead of national security ...

Pros and Cons of Using a Disney World Travel Agent

Pros and Cons of Using a Disney Travel Agent

Choosing A Disney World Travel Agent

Benefits of Using a Disney Travel Agent

Reducing Your Vacation Planning Stress

Knowledge of the Best Accommodations

Help Plan Your Dining Reservations

Help Save You Money

Enjoy Less Known Disney Experiences

Cons of Using a Disney World Travel Agent

You Have Less Control Over Your Trip

You May Find Cheaper Accommodations Yourself

Not All Travel Agents Are Created Equal

Are Disney World Travel Agents Worth It?

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booking directly through Disney vs. travel agent - Orlando Forum

booking directly through Disney vs. travel agent

Orlando Hotels and Places to Stay

Why You Should Use A Disney Travel Agent

Your Thoughts

Written by Tom Bricker

Disney Travel Agents | Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Benefits

Working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

Not All Disney-Specialized Travel Agencies are Equal

Disney Discount Monitoring and Special Services

Complimentary Concierge Services & No Fees!

Special Booking Incentives – Combine with Disney Discounts to Save More!

Vacation Protection

Deals from Disney: What You Should Know

Walt Disney World Resort Free Quote

Privacy Overview

Do’s and Don’ts: Booking Disney Travel

DO: Check for Extra Fees and Terms

Parking Fees

Resort Fees

Cancellation and Change Fees

DON’T: Assume Package Deals Are the Best Deal

DO: Think About How You’ll Spend Your Time Before You Book

DON’T: Stop Paying Attention After You Book

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