Best time to book?

[laurrbangs]

I’m looking into planning my first Disneyland trip! Being a frequent of WDW I know how to look out for deals and discounts and I’m wondering if the same applies to Land. Is there a favorite time of year to book? Do they have similar offers?
Im hoping to plan my trip for Sept 2020

 

[theluckyrabbit]

Other posters will help with specifics to your question, but in the meantime, here are some helpful threads for you:
* DLR Info/Links - Maps, Hotels, DISer Reviews, Hydroguy's tips, NEWBIE INFO here! -- from the sticky threads at the top of the first page -- TONS of great information here!
From that sticky:
HydroGuy Tips Compilation -- so many helpful threads here!
A DLR Guide for WDW Vets -- absolute must reading for you!
"HydroGuy's Hotel Rule" www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1199862
"Choosing the Right DLR Area Hotel for You" www.disboards.com/threads/choosing-the-right-hotel-for-you.3656512/ -- very helpful info here -- ask any questions! At DLR, it's not about on site or off site -- it's all about location, location, location! What you invest in location/hotel, you will save in sanity, peace of mind, physical wear and tear, major convenience, commute/parking time and money, etc.
"Maxpass/Fastpass: an overview and some strategy" by @Skyegirl1999 - www.disboards.com/threads/maxpass-fastpass-an-overview-and-some-strategy.3726246/ -- most WDW vets love MP once they use it -- read up on it here and ask all your questions in this thread!
"Airport Proximity to DLR and Ground Transportation Information" by @3TinksAndAnEeyorewww.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2318297 -- very helpful info here -- closest airports to DLR are SNA (John Wayne) and LGB (Long Beach).
Number of days: we usually suggest our friends aim for 3 days minimum and up to 5 days -- more days allows for a more relaxed touring style, more time for shows/parades/ character meals/ TS meals/ shopping/pool time/beach days/etc. More time will help you deal with any crowds and give you time for breaks during the afternoon so that you can do nighttime shows. There really is so much to see and do at DLR!

Happy trip planning!

 

[laurrbangs]

This is INSANELY helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to respond and gather all of these links !

 

[theluckyrabbit]

For deals and discounts, look at Mousesavers.com (totally legit!) and LMT Club for tickets (Google for a free membership code). UT sells discounted tickets with MP pre-purchased, if you're interested in that. (Although, purchasing MP at the parks is really easy, too!) Some people really like Costco for their packages.

 

[tarheelalum]

Book as early as possible directly with a hotel at a rate you can cancel or change without penalty. Then between the time you book, and your trip, look for a better deal. People post hotel deals in this forum all the time. But usually the earlier you book, the better the deal. The AAA rate is often a pretty good deal at some off site hotels but avoid Disneyland's Good Neighbor Program. They overcharge you like crazy for what you could book on your own at a much better rate. If you can afford it, stay at the Disneyland hotel but most people stay off site at hotels within walking distance of 10/15 minutes or less. Usually on S. Harbor or Katella but some other streets as well. Its very safe walking to and from Disneyland in the resort district day or night. And since you frequent WDW, I must tell you to buy park hoppers. The parks are a 45 second walk apart and you don't have to go through security to park hop. It is a must at Disneyland to park hop!! And buy max pass. It will make your trip much easier and far less stressful. You'll get to ride more attractions since your not running across the park all the time trying to find the fast pass kiosks. I think you'll find its a much more relaxing experience planning a Disneyland vacation. Its a go with the flow kind of place. Have a great trip.