Disney World vacations are pricier and more complicated than ever but one expert knows the secrets to a perfect trip

Disney World may still be The Happiest Place — but now more than ever, those who go without planning ahead shouldn’t be alarmed when their dream vacation turns into a budget-busting boondoggle.Long lines, rising prices and big crowds (58 million visitors a year, at last check!) have overwhelmed visitors without a strategy for years.

Now, however, there’s even more you’ll need to anticipate — and figure out how to work around.Supposing you haven’t been to the House of Mouse in a few years — have you heard about all the policy changes? From dynamic pricing to new systems for skipping lines, mandatory park reservations and the Disney app visitors are expected to use now, the new list of stuff to know is growing longer every year.

Fortunately, to the rescue comes Jaimie Michaels, editor of MagicGuides, which specializes in Disney travel planning.Ensuring families get the most from their trip is the site’s mission.Michaels shared six of her top tips for those looking to have the best experience at one of the world’s most popular — and at times, most complex — attractions.

Plan well, however, the expert says, and all you’ll have to do when you show up is have the time of your life.Here’s what to know, directly from the pro: Planning a Disney trip should ideally be done well in advance.Spending about a year preparing and saving is a good idea, and paying for your trip around six months before your desired travel date is recommended.

Disney releases special offers and discounts for tickets and rooms three to six months in advance. Avoiding peak times can save you a lot of hassle waiting in line during your trip.Additionally, visiting during less popular periods may allow you to find cheaper prices for hotels.

On average, holiday periods such as New Year’s, Halloween, Christmas, and the Fourth of July are always busy.Ideal times to visit are between mid-January and mid-March, and then from mid-September to mid-November (excluding ...