There are many ways to make your way to Orlando for your Walt Disney World vacation. A few weeks ago we discussed driving. Today, let’s look what to think about if you plan on flying instead.
Flying always seemed to me to be the most expensive way to travel. And in some cases it can cost more, depending on how many are in your party, how far away you live etc. But, over-all for us, the time saved out-weighed the cost. Here’s what to think about when doing that:
What is the initial cost of your flights for all travelers? If you have a large(r) group, are you going to pay for everyone in your party to fly or is the cost being divided up among several different people/families? Are you traveling with children under 2? The airlines will charge for children over 8 days shy of their 2nd birthday or if they require a car seat. If you have an infant that you do not feel comfortable holding, you will have to pay for at least a child’s fare (if available) or an adult fare. Also watch for Basic Economy Fares, which may not allow you to choose your seat. This could mean your child will sit alone.
Will there be additional costs? Do you need to check your baggage or can you put what you need into a carry on. If you need to check bags, does your airline charge a fee (and how much per bag) or are they like Southwest that provides each traveler with 2 free bags. If carrying on only, watch the size of your bag as most airlines are pretty strict on the carry on sizes. Some airlines do offer the ability to check your bag at the gate and it will be placed below in the belly of the plane, then it can be retrieved as you disembark. Strollers are handled this way so you aren’t carrying your child through the airport to the next gate. Be sure to check with several airlines to see what best works for you and your party. Also think about if you will have to change planes: if so, you will need to take your carry on with you each time on and off another place. Consider also transportation to get to the airport. Are you taking your vehicle to the airport or can someone drop you off? Is there an option to use a shuttle service? And don’t forget the cost if you are parking at the airport. I have seen Long Term Parking that can exceed $15 + / day to park. Being gone 5 days, you just added $75 to your cost!
How much time will you save so that you can maximize your time at Walt Disney World? I have found some very reasonable fares to fly, but check the amount of “travel-time” noted beside the flight times. The rates were reasonable, but what if you have 2-3 stops and the total travel time is close to the time it will take to drive? Compare those times to see if it is still worth flying.
Is there a major airport close to you? Or will you need to drive several hours to get to the nearest airport? While not all cities may have direct flights to Orlando, they will at least offer flights where you may need to make a connection to get you the rest of the way. Watch carefully the Orlando airport you are flying into however: many cities offer great deals on flights to Sanford, but Disney’s Magical Express does not service this airport, meaning you will need to pay for your transportation to get to Walt Disney World then. These are all things to consider!
However you get to Disney, have fun doing it!
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Debbie and her husband live in Collegedale, TN where her youngest son is going to college. She is a huge Disney fan who dreams of someday retiring and working as a tour guide at Walt Disney World. She has enjoyed many trips to WDW with children, grandchildren and sometimes adults only. It is her ultimate goal to make sure everyone who visits WDW has the same magical time that she enjoys every time she visits.
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