Becoming a Disney Travel Planner is a dream job for many people who love Disney parks, resorts, and cruises. Imagine turning your passion for all things Disney into a career, helping families plan magical vacations to the happiest places on earth. The good news is that this dream can become a reality with the right steps and dedication.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to becoming a Disney Travel Planner, explaining what the role entails, how to get started, and what you need to succeed in this exciting and fulfilling career.
What Is a Disney Travel Planner?
A Disney Travel Planner, also known as an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, is a travel agent who specializes in planning Disney vacations. These planners help clients organize trips to Disney destinations like Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii.
While Disney itself does not hire travel planners directly, you can become an independent travel agent through an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agency. These agencies have been recognized by Disney for their expertise in planning Disney vacations and are part of Disney’s EarMarked Program. By joining one of these agencies, you can help clients design their perfect Disney getaway.
Step 1: Research the Role
Before diving into the world of Disney vacation planning, it’s important to understand exactly what the job entails. As a Disney Travel Planner, your main responsibilities will include:
- Helping clients book and plan vacations to Disney destinations.
- Offering expert advice on hotels, park tickets, dining reservations, FastPass+ selections, and more.
- Keeping up with the latest Disney news, promotions, and changes.
- Ensuring your clients have a stress-free, magical experience by handling the details.
- Earning commission based on the vacations you book for clients.
The job requires excellent communication skills, in-depth knowledge of Disney destinations, and the ability to stay organized while managing multiple clients.
Step 2: Gain In-Depth Knowledge of Disney Destinations
To become a successful Disney Travel Planner, you must be an expert on Disney destinations. This includes the theme parks, resorts, dining options, ticketing systems, and special experiences. The more you know, the better you can serve your clients and create customized vacation plans.
Key Areas to Learn About:
- Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, Florida) – This is Disney’s flagship property, with four theme parks, two water parks, dozens of hotels, and endless dining and entertainment options.
- Disneyland Resort (Anaheim, California) – The original Disney park, with two theme parks and a range of accommodations.
- Disney Cruise Line – Offering cruises to various destinations, including the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska.
- Adventures by Disney – Disney’s guided vacation packages to destinations worldwide, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
- Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa – Disney’s luxury resort in Hawaii.
To stay up to date, follow Disney-related blogs, YouTube channels, and official Disney news releases. You should also consider taking personal trips to these destinations to experience them firsthand. The more familiar you are with the parks, resorts, and experiences, the better you can plan the ideal vacation for your clients.
Step 3: Choose an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Agency
Since Disney does not hire travel planners directly, you will need to work with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agency. These agencies have received the prestigious "EarMarked" designation from Disney, which means they have been recognized for their knowledge and expertise in planning Disney vacations.
How to Choose the Right Agency:
- Research Different Agencies: There are many agencies that specialize in Disney vacations. Research several options to find one that aligns with your goals and values. Some of the most popular agencies include:
- Dreams Unlimited Travel
- Mouseketrips
- Small World Vacations
- Magical Vacation Planner
- MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel
- Look for Reputable Reviews: Make sure the agency is well-respected within the Disney travel community. Look for online reviews, testimonials from current agents, and industry recognition.
- Understand Their Commission Structure: Most agencies will pay you a commission for each vacation you book. Some may offer higher commission percentages than others. It’s important to understand how much you’ll earn and when you’ll be paid.
- Ask About Training and Support: A good agency should offer training programs for new agents, including Disney-specific training. They should also provide ongoing support as you grow in your career.
- Check for Fees: Some agencies require new agents to pay a fee for joining, while others may take a portion of your commission as an administrative fee. Make sure to read the fine print before committing.
Step 4: Complete Training and Certification
Once you’ve joined an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agency, the next step is to complete your training. Many agencies offer in-house training programs to help you get started, but there is also a specific certification you will need to obtain to become a Disney expert.
Disney’s College of Knowledge
Disney offers its own certification program for travel agents, called the Disney College of Knowledge. This online training course is free for agents working with an authorized Disney travel agency, and it covers all aspects of Disney vacations, including:
- Disney theme parks and resorts.
- Disney Cruise Line.
- Adventures by Disney.
- Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.
Completing the College of Knowledge is essential for any Disney Travel Planner. Not only will it provide you with in-depth knowledge about Disney destinations, but it will also give you a certification that shows you are qualified to book Disney vacations.
Step 5: Build a Client Base
Once you’ve completed your training and certification, it’s time to start building your client base. As a Disney Travel Planner, your success depends on your ability to find clients who are looking to book Disney vacations.
How to Find Clients:
- Tap Into Your Personal Network: Let your friends, family, and coworkers know that you’re now a Disney Travel Planner. Word of mouth can be a powerful tool, especially if people know you are a Disney expert.
- Social Media Marketing: Create social media accounts dedicated to your Disney travel planning services. Share tips, vacation photos, Disney news, and promotional deals. Engaging with Disney fans on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can help you attract potential clients.
- Create a Website or Blog: Having a professional website or blog can help you establish your brand as a Disney Travel Planner. Use your website to showcase your services, share Disney travel tips, and highlight client testimonials. Including blog posts about Disney vacations can also help with search engine optimization (SEO), allowing potential clients to find you through Google.
- Attend Local Travel Events or Expos: Travel expos, community events, and conventions are great places to promote your Disney travel planning services. Setting up a booth or table with Disney-themed materials can attract attention and lead to new clients.
- Leverage Online Travel Forums and Groups: Join Disney-related travel forums, Facebook groups, and online communities. These groups are full of Disney fans who may be planning a trip and looking for a travel planner to help with the details.
Step 6: Provide Exceptional Service
One of the most important aspects of being a Disney Travel Planner is providing exceptional customer service. Your clients are relying on you to make their Disney vacation as magical and stress-free as possible, so it’s essential to go above and beyond to meet their needs.
Ways to Offer Outstanding Service:
- Tailor Each Vacation to the Client: Every Disney trip is different. Whether your clients are planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a special event like a birthday or anniversary, make sure their trip is customized to their preferences.
- Stay Up-to-Date on Promotions: Disney often offers discounts, promotions, and special offers for its resorts, cruises, and vacation packages. Keep your clients informed about these deals to help them save money and get the best value for their trip.
- Be Responsive: Clients appreciate quick responses, especially when they have questions or concerns about their vacation. Make sure you are available to address their needs and provide updates throughout the planning process.
- Provide Insider Tips: Share your Disney knowledge with your clients by offering insider tips and tricks. Whether it’s the best time to visit certain attractions, how to navigate the parks, or where to find hidden gems, your expertise will make their trip more enjoyable.
Step 7: Keep Growing and Learning
The world of Disney is always evolving, with new attractions, resorts, and experiences being added regularly. As a Disney Travel Planner, it’s important to stay informed about the latest developments so you can continue providing top-notch service to your clients.
- Visit Disney Destinations Regularly: Whenever possible, visit Disney parks, resorts, and cruises to experience them firsthand. Personal experiences can be invaluable when advising clients.
- Continue Your Education: Many travel agencies and Disney itself offer ongoing training and workshops. Take advantage of these opportunities to further your knowledge and skills.
- Network with Other Travel Planners: Building relationships with other Disney Travel Planners can help you grow your business. Joining online communities or attending industry events can provide valuable networking opportunities and allow you to learn from others.
Conclusion
Becoming a Disney Travel Planner can be a highly rewarding career for those who are passionate about Disney and helping others create magical experiences. By following these steps—researching the role, gaining in-depth Disney knowledge, joining an authorized agency, completing training, building a client base, and offering exceptional service—you can turn your love for Disney into a successful business.