I work with families to take the stress out of planning Orlando holidays, creating tailor-made itineraries that fit their budget, priorities and travel style — so they can focus on the fun.

How Many Days Do You Need for Disney and Universal Orlando?

One of the first things I help clients work out is how much time they really need.

One of the biggest mistakes I help families avoid is trying to cram too much into too little time, which can quickly lead to exhaustion.

As a general guide, I usually recommend:

• Disney: 3–5 park days for most families
• Universal: 2–3 days to comfortably enjoy both main parks
• Rest days: At least one non-park day per week

Getting this balance right can make a huge difference to the overall experience.

Is It Better to Stay On-Site or Off-Site in Orlando?

Choosing where to stay can completely shape your holiday — and it’s one of the most important decisions I help clients make.

The right choice depends on your priorities, budget and how you want your trip to feel.

Staying on-site at Disney

I often recommend this for families who want:

• Early park entry
• Easy transport via buses, boats and Skyliner
• Full Disney immersion from morning to night

Staying on-site at Universal

This can work brilliantly for:

• Quick and easy access to the parks
• Select hotels with Express Pass benefits
• Families prioritising convenience and thrill rides

Staying off-site in Orlando

A great option if you’re looking for:

• More space for larger families
• Villas with private pools
• Better value for longer stays
• Flexibility with self-catering and laundry

I often recommend a split stay because it can be one of the smartest ways to experience Orlando while balancing budget, convenience and downtime.

What Is the Best Ticket Option for Disney and Universal?

This is one of the areas where I save clients the most confusion — and often money.

Disney and Universal tickets can be complicated, and buying the wrong combination can be costly.

I help clients work out:

• Whether Disney Park Hopper tickets are worth it
• If Universal Park-to-Park tickets are essential
• Whether water park add-ons offer value
• How many days actually make sense for their trip

For example, if Harry Potter is a must-do, I’ll always explain why Park-to-Park tickets matter so they don’t miss the Hogwarts Express experience.

It’s not about buying the biggest ticket package — it’s about buying the right one.

My Insider Tips for Saving Time, Money and Stress

When clients book with me, they benefit from the practical tips that can make all the difference:

• The best times to arrive at the parks to avoid long queues
• How to plan midday breaks to prevent burnout
• How to use the Disney and Universal apps properly
• Which dining reservations are worth securing early
• How to budget realistically for food and souvenirs
• What to pack for Florida’s heat and sudden rainstorms

These small details are often what separate a good trip from a great one.

How to Plan the Perfect Split Between Disney and Universal

A question I’m often asked is: Should I split my stay?

For many families, my answer is yes.

A split stay can help maximise both value and experience.

A strategy I often recommend is:

• Start with a villa or off-site hotel for relaxation, shopping and adjusting to the time zone
• Visit Universal first for the thrill rides
• Finish with a Disney on-site stay for convenience and extra magic

This gives families the best balance of excitement, comfort and flexibility.

Why Book Your Orlando Holiday Through Me?

Planning Disney and Universal can feel like a full-time job.

When you book through me, I help simplify every part of it.

That includes:

• Finding the right hotel or villa for your budget
• Choosing the best-value ticket combinations
• Building a realistic day-by-day itinerary
• Advising on dining, transfers and extras
• Helping you avoid common mistakes
• Being available for support before, during and after your trip

Instead of spending hours researching and second-guessing, you’ll have expert advice tailored specifically to your family.

And because your booking is financially protected, you also have complete peace of mind.

Orlando Holiday FAQs

How many days do you need for Disney and Universal Orlando?

I usually recommend 7–10 park days for families wanting to enjoy both without rushing.

Is it worth doing Disney and Universal in one trip?

Absolutely — with the right planning. I often help clients combine both in a way that feels balanced and enjoyable.

When is the best time to visit Orlando?

January, February, May, September and early November are often some of the best times for lower crowds and more comfortable weather.

Is staying on-site worth it?

It depends on your priorities. I help clients work out whether the added convenience is worth the extra cost for their trip.

Ready to Plan Your Orlando Holiday?

If you’re planning Disney, Universal, or both, I can help you save time, avoid costly mistakes, and build an Orlando itinerary that works perfectly for your family.

From choosing the right hotels and tickets to planning the best park strategy, I’ll take care of the details so you can focus on making memories.

Get in touch for personalised advice and a tailored quote.

About Me

I’m passionate about creating tailor-made holidays that make memories to last a lifetime. Whether it’s a dream Orlando adventure, a relaxing beach escape or a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I’m here to make planning simple, stress-free and exciting.

Get in touch with me today:

Email: tom.sterling@travelcounsellors.com
Phone / WhatsApp: 01923 640066