The One Reason People Are Delaying Their Disney World Trips

There is a lot happening in Disney World in 2023 that we can look forward to.

Magic Kingdom

This fall you can enjoy Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom. You can head over to EPCOT until November 18th and grab all the snacks at the Food and Wine Festival. Right after comes the holiday season at the parks. We have two holiday parties to choose from — Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or the new Jollywood Nights party. With just a few months left in 2023, we have a lot to look forward to.

But for some, they are waiting until 2024 or later to visit the parks again. We asked our readers, “Have you delayed your 2023 Disney World trip until 2024 or beyond? Why?” and here’s what we found.

Cost

This was a big one for our readers and probably the most popular answer. Steven said, “Postponed indefinitely. We went in October 2022. Had a wonderful trip. But spent almost 10 grand. I absolutely love Disney World. But I can no longer justify the cost”. The price of going to Disney has definitely seen an increase in the past few years. Between park ticket increases and the introduction of Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes, it can be expensive to take a Disney trip.

Monorail in EPCOT

Another reader said, “We used to be annual passholders but the cost of everything is a factor, but more than anything the amount of planning that has to take place prior to the trip has taken the fun out of going.”. Many readers felt like the cost to go was too high on top of all of the time you need to spend planning.

Big Thunder Mountain

Park Hopping and Park Reservations

Park reservations were introduced in 2020 and are required to enter the park. Park hopping has been restricted since the reopening of the park in 2020. You now have to wait until 2 PM to enter your second park. This is a negative for many people as it can restrict their daily plans. Our reader Hollie said “Waiting for park reservations to be over with. Hoping park hopper goes back to normal.”

We’re walking right down the middle of Main Street, U.S.A.

Renae said, “We don’t want to make park reservations, and we are hoping they will listen to their customers and get rid of Genie (lol wishful thinking).” In 2024, park passes will be changing for many guests allowing certain guests not to have to make them. This was a reason many of our readers had moved their trip to 2024.

Dining Plan

Finally, the Disney Dining Plan was the most popular answer among our readers as to why they have moved their Disney vacation. It was announced that the dining plan would be returning in 2024. Tiffany commented, “Yes!! For the dining plan!” in response to our question.

Full Spread from Crockett’s Tavern

Ruth simply said, “Dining plan!” The Disney Dining Plan will return to Disney World on January 9th, 2024! Disney shared that the Dining Plan is coming back for those with hotel stays with a start date of January 9th, and we could NOT be more excited. Bookings have already started.

Chef Mickey’s

According to Disney, the Quick Service and Standard Disney Dining Plans will be the only options to return for now, and they must be booked as part of a hotel package. Disney Dining Plans are pre-purchased and added onto a Disney Vacation Package (i.e. you must be staying on a Vacation Package at a Disney-owned-and-operated hotel, and have purchased at least one ticket per person), so that all you have to do when you get to Disney World is head to a restaurant on the list, eat, and scan your card.

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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

When is your next Disney World vacation? Let us know in the comments below.