Vacation packages in Jan 2010 and other booking ?'s

[DoubleDown7]

Hello all. Its been about 10 months since we took our little boy to Disney World for the first time (MK-2 days, AK- 1 day for a long weekend). Now that a little time has passed by and we have a new little daughter (7 months) its about time to start planning our next trip (7 or 8 days this time). We're looking to go in mid to late January 2010 for a week to celebrate our daughters 2 year birthday. We are now about 17 months away from that time...when can I expect that month to be open for vacation reservations? Right now WDW is only taking booking through 2009. Also...when is the best time to book once they do come available? I know last year when we went those who booked early got free meals. Do they always give perks for those who book early? And...what is the money sitaution like when booking a vacation? Is there a certain percentage up front and lots in the middle with the remaining balance due a month or two before vacation?

Well I think that's about it. If any of you have any pointers in booking so early please tell me. Last year it was a quick decision (booked 2 1/2 months before leaving). Also...I do plan on talking to the Disney travel agents as I had great success with Dreams Unlimited last year. Thanks all. I hope ya'll can help me out.

 

[MinnieNurse]

I believe the packages are usually available mid to late August every year. You can book room only now and change to a package once they are released. Anyone know for sure what month?

 

[PirateMomma412]

I, too, am planning a trip for Jan 2010!! I can't wait until I can book our trip! But when I called a CM told me that the dates for 2010 would be released towards the end of June...not soon enough! But oh well, it gives me something to look forward to & time to plan my ADRs! I can hardly wait!!

 

[DWFan4Life]

We just got there last Christmas holidays and the experience is really wonderful. How I wish we were going to Disney as early as all of you here, but still we are in process of planning. Maybe we will have our trip on December, I'm excited and little bit crazy. But we can change our minds every now and then.

Have a safe trip everyone.