Insider's tip and tricks to get the most out of your Disney vacation

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- When you book a vacation, it's not uncommon to have lots of questions, but when you're planning a trip to a Disney park, you can feel downright lost. A Houston woman is helping make the process a little easier.

"I've loved Disney since I was little. I found a new passion for it when I was in college. I started running just to get in shape," said Lindsey Morris, who has made approximately 50 trips to Disney parks.

Her runs soon became training for races, and her Disney vacations became "run-cations," as she calls them.

Morris is now a mom, and her 10-month-old baby boy has already been to Disney three times, so it's no surprise Disney chose her as a Mom Panelist Run Disney Specialist.

"I mostly answer Run Disney questions, but I will answer Walt Disney questions time to time," explained Morris.

She says her biggest tip is to book your trip as early as possible.

"If Disney runs a promotion or special and it's available for your room type, you can always call, and they'll adjust your reservation," she added.

Next, don't try to do everything.

"What I recommend is to figure out your priorities or your kiddo's favorite character, and make your top three or four priorities per park," advised Morris.

She said to also download the My Disney Experience app for Walt Disney World or the Disneyland Resort app for Disneyland.

"You can book your Fast Passes through it, your reservations through it, and it's a map with wait times while you're there in the park," Morris explained.

Morris said Fast Passes are worth it and can be booked 60 days out if you stay on the property.

"You're giving your family more free time and less time in line, so do it," she added.

Also, look into Disney dining plans and make reservations -- and don't forget, you can pack your meals, too!

"For dining reservations, they can be booked 180 days in advance," said Morris.

One professional picture costs $15, so Morris recommended buying Memory Maker package.

"You get every photo taken of you on property, unlimited downloads, professional photographers while you're there," said Morris.

"It is $149 before your trip. If you wait until you're there to get it, it costs $169," she added.

Finally, Morris says not to wait until the kids are older. When you take your toddlers when the rest of the country is still in school, you'll probably get better deals.

To ask the Mom Panelist questions, go to www.disneyparksmomspanel.com. You can search or ask a question there. Most moms respond in three to four days.

Editor's Note: The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and of this station.