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Make your travel plan with travelplan travel agency.

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Our focus is to introduce to world travellers, tourist groups and tour operators the magical beauties of Croatia and its rich historical treasures and to enrich people’s lives by arranging tailor made holiday packages throughout Croatia and the region.

Travelplan organizes and arranges package tours, excursions, wine & dine gastronomy tours, tailor made packages, business travel and land and sea transfers.

We offer tour operators and travel wholesalers a wide variety of services ranging from standard round-trips and circuits to team building and from FIT itineraries to tour series.

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To ensure quality and the first class service, we spend a very long time selecting our partners and constantly monitoring quality of our tours upon honest reviews from our trusted travelers, because we believe in open and honest communication.

We offer personal attention and friendliness as well as the wealth of local knowledge.

Travelplan tours are unique and million miles away from the mass tourism.

We appreciate and value the time you have taken to contact Travelplan Travel Agency.

Are you a tour operator or a travel wholesaler looking for a local agent in Croatia and on the Adriatic coast?

We can offer you complete packages, travel plans and travel ittineraries and the whole range of planned trips for your clients searching for unique experiences and wanting to spend their vacation on the beautiful Adriatic coast or any other part of picturesque Croatia or some of the neighbouring countries.

Feel free to contact Travelplan Dubrovnik and we will either arrange our ready-made excursion or circuit package for your clients or will create a new travel plan in accordance with your specific wishes. You may reach Travelplan via email on [email protected], Skype easytravel007 or call us on +38520313195, Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CET

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The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

Erin Miller

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Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

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When it comes down to it, packing for a trip (domestic or international) can be stressful. Do you wait until the last minute? Put off researching what you’ll need for certain activities or weather at your destination? Get distracted easily, or have young kiddos that need attention? It happens to the best of us!

On one hand, if you under-pack you might not be prepared. But if you over-pack, you run the risk of incurring hefty baggage fees or missing out on space to bring home that lovely souvenir. If you forget an essential travel document, you could even miss your trip altogether! We get stressed just thinking about it!

That’s why Upgraded Points is bringing you a guide full of packing tips and tricks, a printable travel checklist, a list of apps to help you out, and reminders for to-do’s around the house before you leave.

We’re here to assuage your anxieties and make sure you’ve got what you need, you’ve cut what you don’t, and there’s no wallet/phone/swimsuit/teddy bear left behind!

Table of Contents

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also check out our “Carry-On Travel Essentials” guide where we’ve compiled a “His” and “Hers” list of some great products that we simply can’t do without when we travel!

📋  Click To View Our Printable Travel Packing List >>  📋

General Packing Tips & Tricks

Check the weather at your destination.

This seems intuitive, but you’d be surprised how many people are stuck traveling in rainy season without a raincoat.

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

Traveling for a birthday? You don’t want to forget that heartfelt gift you bought weeks in advance. Going to a wedding? It’d be a shame if you showed up without your suit. Hiking in Hawaii? Your water-shoes won’t get much use if you leave them behind.

Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice.)

You can easily find printable vacation packing lists online (like ours above), or you can write out your own. There are also a number of apps you can utilize if you prefer something more tech-based. Read about several of these below!

Timing is key here. If you jot things down or review your printed list in advance, it gives you the opportunity to take a second look with a fresh mind. All too often you’ll remember something you didn’t yesterday when your brain was thinking about pizza instead of packing.

If you’re printing a list that’s not trip specific, review it first and immediately cross off items you won’t need. Why bring a winter coat to the beach?

Take items you can grab at your destination off the list.

If you’re planning to travel with only a carry-on, this tip is especially important as it will save space (at least for your outgoing journey!).

Most times when traveling, your hotel will provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.; why waste space packing them? If you’re a little picky about your toiletries or you’re not staying at a hotel, you’ll probably still encounter a drugstore where you can buy anything you might need.

Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.

Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight. You’ll want travel-sized containers if you plan on carrying liquids this way.

Even if you’re flying with a checked bag and are allowed more liquids, do you really need that 16oz bottle of shampoo for a weeklong trip? Cutting it will save you room for other essential items.

Choose the right luggage.

Yes, different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.

For carry-ons, you’re generally accepted at/under max linear dimensions of 155cm/45in. For checked bags, you’re generally safe under 158cm/62in max linear dimensions. However, be sure to check the airline you’re flying with prior to packing, as some can be stingy!

You also want to seriously consider the type of bag you enjoy traveling with – shoulder bag , backpack , roller bag, hard shell , soft shell, etc. There are definitely loads of options so just remember, your bag shouldn’t stress you out, it should make traveling easier.

Hot Tip:  We’ve done tons of research on this topic so don’t miss our articles on the best carry-on bags and the best checked luggage bags for any type of traveler. 

Essentials first.

Gather your most important items first. This includes all travel documents such as your passport, ID/driver’s license, boarding passes, hotel reservations, etc. This also includes anything you’ll seriously regret forgetting and can’t purchase while traveling: wallet , credit cards , camera , cell phone, etc.

This being said, there are a number of apps that can assist with itinerary management and decrease the number of printed documents you’ll need to carry. See our list of helpful packing apps at the end of this post.

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

If you only have 1 suitcase, then you’re set. If you’ve got more options, attempt to use the smaller one – most people tend to overpack when their suitcase is too large for their trip. You don’t really need an extra sweater, 2 more t-shirts, and another pair of boots just because they fit! Plus, your baggage will be a lot easier to handle if it’s smaller and lighter, which will cut your stress level significantly.

Lay everything out.

Laying all of your items out allows you to plan outfits and account for your days/nights away. When everything’s laid out, you can clearly see how much you’re bringing and spot missing items easier. This also includes shoes, accessories, toiletries, etc.

Dividing items into sections based on where they’ll be packed is also helpful.

Lastly, don’t forget to lay out your plane/travel day outfit and consider it with your other pieces.

Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking.

In general, choose simple tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Did you know that just 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirt, etc.), 4 tops (tee, tank, etc.), and 2 outer layers (sweater, coat, or cardigan) can make up to 24 different outfits??

Depending on the reason for your trip, you might need to pack a special item that can only be worn once (suit, bridesmaid dress, etc.), but try to keep these to a minimum! This step is key if you’re pressed for space.

PUT STUFF BACK!

Once you’ve laid out all your items, really consider the number of days you’ll be on your trip. Chances are you could stand to put a few things back in the closet in order to pack more efficiently. Remember, no one wants to pay a fee for overweight baggage or lug around extra clothes for no reason!

Pack it up.

You never thought we’d actually get to this step, did you? There are a number of recommended packing tips when it comes to getting everything neatly in the suitcase. This can be overwhelming, but if you pick up the right habits packing will seem much less stressful.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.

Put a checkmark next to each item you’ve packed and DON’T TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR BAG. If you’re not ready to pack an item, do NOT check the box! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…

(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)

If you’re notorious for leaving essentials at home, print an extra travel checklist just for those items and tape it to your front door the night before you leave. Make a promise that you can’t walk out without reviewing the list one final time.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

By now you’ve probably heard that old-fashioned folding isn’t the best method to use when it comes to packing, especially in tight cases. If you have the room to spare, virtually any of these methods will do.

Interfolding involves layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, then interweaving them as you fold them together. If you fold the items in accordance with the size of your suitcase, you’re left with a neat little bundle that will fit right in. Additionally, this style of folding will leave your clothing virtually wrinkle-free.

Bundle packing is very similar to interfolding, but you are tightly folding or wrapping your clothing items around a soft core (like a dopp kit , stack of underwear, cloth zippered jewelry bag , etc.). Bundle packing is also said to reduce wrinkles and save space.

Many people also recommend rolling when packing your clothes – at least for softer items and jeans. Again, this method tends to save room and reduce creasing in the process.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick and you don’t have the option of a hanging garment bag , it may be beneficial to learn the proper way to fold nicer items (like a dress shirt or suit coat ) for the best results.

Pack liquids in secure bags.

Toiletries that can leak will leak. These should be placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Some travelers even encourage cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in attempts to prevent further seepage.

Utilize shoe space when you can.

Rolled-up socks, belts, gloves, stocking caps, and other small items can easily fit into shoes (as long as they’re relatively clean and not smelly!). This also helps the shoe hold its shape throughout your travels. Rolled-up belts can also be used to keep a shirt collar stiff if needed.

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

Pack them in a separate space or utilize plastic bags/shower caps to cover the bottoms and prevent dirtying the rest of your clothing. Have a delicate pair of dress shoes or heels? Pack them in their own bags if possible, or clean the bottoms and wrap with a durable garment.

Toss a dryer sheet into your suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.

While you’re at it, grab a stain pen or stain wipes for your carry-on. If you happen to spill on one of the only tops you’ve brought and don’t have laundry facilities, you’re cutting your number of outfits drastically. If you know you’ll have laundry facilities or need to wash your clothes by hand, you can purchase individual detergent packets.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

By packing a change of clothes and undergarments in your carry-on , you’re covered for at least a day if your baggage gets delayed or lost. Some travelers may want to pack an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Similarly, if you’re heading to a beach locale, pack a swimsuit and sandals . If you have to wait to check into your hotel, you can head to the pool while the concierge keeps your luggage.

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

As a general rule of thumb, you should leave irreplaceable items at home. This includes objects such as expensive jewelry and heirlooms. If you must travel with them, these items should be kept with you at all times. Do not trust them to be safe when placed in checked baggage; if your suitcase is lost, delayed, or stolen, you’re out of luck.

Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.

Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage.

3 – Travelers may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.

1 – These items must fit into 1 clear plastic quart-sized bag.

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it separately in the screening bin. This is meant to slightly expedite passing through security .

The following apps can be ultra helpful for those who prefer a mobile device to the standard pen and paper methods.

Evernote: While Evernote isn’t technically travel-oriented, it’s all about lists and can be a big help for packing. With Evernote, you can sync your packing list across all your devices, making it easy to keep track of things no matter where you are…even out at the store buying items from your list!

Evernote also enables sharing notes with others, which is especially helpful for group trips. Need reminders? No problem, you can set alerts in Evernote to keep you on top of your game.

Packing Pro: This app is everything you ever wanted if you’re a list maker, and everything you didn’t know you needed if you’re a forgetful person. Packing Pro helps travelers get organized via packing lists. From templates and suggestions to customizable designs, Packing Pro has options for every type of traveler. Users are allowed an unlimited number of packing lists of an unlimited length, and you can even add images, alerts, and mark “need to buy” items.

It also has iCloud support and the ability to share your lists via email, AirDrop, Dropbox, etc. You can also export and edit your lists with Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs. If you’re the type that physically needs to cross things off, you can send directly to a printer too.

The Expert List-Making Assistant is a cool feature if you’re low-maintenance: it will take your parameters (number of people, destination, weather, etc.) and automatically create lists for you.

PackPoint: PackPoint’s purpose is to take the guesswork out of packing. The app pretty much tells you what to pack based on how long you’re traveling, where you’re going, the weather when you get there, and any activities you have planned (chosen from a pre-defined list in the app). With PackPoint Premium, users can connect to TripIt, share their lists across devices, and add customizable packing items/activities.

Travel List: Travel List seems to have fewer bells and whistles. You can do many of the same things as with Packing Pro and PackPoint: create customizable packing lists, sync across your devices, share with other people, and create alerts/reminders. One nice component is their calendar view, which gives a different type of visualization that some people really prefer. And this one is compatible with Apple Watch, which can be a huge organizational perk.

Lists To Do: This app keeps things simple for general to-do lists and is super easy to use. See your list’s percentage progress for a clear visual on how much you have left to do/pack before jetting off and set yourself reminders and share lists with your travel companions.

The following apps are helpful for keeping all your travel information in one place. From flight itineraries to hotel confirmation, event tickets to dinner reservations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, this means fewer printed travel documents you need to worry about carrying with you.

Google Trips: In a nutshell, Google Trips seamlessly integrates reservations (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) from your Gmail and creates a specific “trip” in the app. These trips are like folders of information including some basic categories like Reservations, Things to Do, Saved Places, Day Plans, Food & Drink, Getting Around, and Need to Know.

It also provides opportunities for travel inspiration, traveler reviews, dining/drink options, and encyclopedic information on several hundred top cities and attractions around the globe.

Also good to note: when you download your trip, everything is available offline in case you’re stuck without WiFi or data.

Kayak Trips: Part of Kayak’s main app includes a platform called Trips, which acts as an itinerary management app to keep all your pertinent travel information together. With Trips, you can forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] , where your itinerary is managed for you in a nice timeline format with maps and important info all on one screen.

Kayak Trips gives you the ability to send other people access to your travel plans through sharing options, link to your calendar app for planning consistency, and receive SMS and email flight alerts.

TripIt: TripIt is one of the most popular travel organization apps on the market. The app automatically imports flight, hotel, rental car, and other booking confirmations ( concert tickets from StubHub, dinner reservations from OpenTable, etc.) from your e-mail. If you don’t appreciate the e-mail scan, you can always forward your emails to [email protected] or manually input all the information into the system.

TripIt then creates an itinerary in an easy-to-read format, including space for directions between airports, rental car pickup, and hotel details. TripIt also allows for calendar syncing and makes it easy to send your travel info to family/friends by sharing via text, Evernote, LinkedIn, Slack, or WhatsApp.

With TripIt Pro, users get real-time flight alerts, help to find alternative flights, an airline seat tracker for better seats, reward program points tracking, and interactive airport maps.

In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.

Remember to:

• Download your travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
• Notify credit card companies of upcoming travel if required (international trips)
• Set an email auto-responder if necessary
• Take out the garbage
• Check the washing machine for wet clothes
• Check the dishwasher for dirty dishes
• Turn off all lights and electronics
• Set lighting timers
• Water the plants
• Drip taps (in cold climates where pipes could freeze)
• Close/lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains
• Set alarm system

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

• Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
• Unplug electronics
• Put a hold on your mail
• Consider having a friend check on your house from time to time

The Upgraded Points team is always jetting off somewhere and even we  still have trouble packing sometimes!

Additionally, if you’re interested in “the best of the best” travel products to up your packing game, check out these posts:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags For Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Lastly, if you’re looking for the top travel-related gifts, we’ve got you covered with our Best Gifts for Travelers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase.

Whether it’s better to fold or roll clothes for your suitcase may depend on a number of things. If you’ve no concern about saving space, folding could be just fine. However, if you’re trying to fit a lot of clothes into a small bag, there’s no shortage of youtube videos out there which prove rolling clothes can help with this task.

Additionally, interfolding and bundling are other techniques that could be helpful space savers. However, to save the most space, vacuum bags will be your best bet – just keep in mind your weight limit when packing a lot of things into one case!

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes don’t necessarily save space but they definitely help you stay organized when packing.

They can also help by keeping items separated — who wants smelly gym clothes next to their fancy dinner outfits?

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

To maximize space when packing, try using these methods for your contents: roll, bundle, or interfold (explanations above). Each has its own special technique but all can help you save space and fit more into your luggage of choice.

Another quick space-saving tip? Utilize typically unused space. For example, pack socks or belts inside your shoes.

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

Here are a few quick tips to decrease wrinkling when packing your clothes into a suitcase: iron first, use a roll or interfold method, pack wrinkle-prone items in garment bags or utilize tissue paper between folds and layers, and/or choose fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle in the first place (wool, Tencel, knit, cashmere, polyester, nylon, spandex).

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

When packing toiletries, you’ll want to be sure they’re kept separate from your clothes in a special bag or case. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy — a Ziplock baggie will do — but this will prevent the leaking of liquid onto your clothing items.

Additionally, you can place a small piece of cling-wrap between the bottles and lids of your liquids to prevent leakage.

If you’re bringing them in your carry-on, you’ll want to be sure you’re adhering to the 3-1-1 rule (use 3 oz containers max, in 1 quart-sized bag, with one bag per traveler) in order to pass easily through security.

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

Always keep valuable items on your person while traveling. This includes identification cards, passports, visas, money, credit cards, jewelry, important medications, etc.

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About Erin Miller

An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

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The Ultimate 6-Day Orlando Itinerary For Families

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Look no further for the best all-encompassing, family-friendly Orlando itinerary!

Not only is Orlando, Florida home to the world’s most iconic theme park, Walt Disney World, but it also draws visitors to Universal Studios, Legoland, Sea World, and so much more!

In this article, you’ll learn all about what to see, how to get around, and how to plan the absolute best 6-Day Disney World itinerary when visiting Orlando with kids.

Having a thought-out plan before your arrival in Orlando will assure that your vacation expectations are met and that you’re able to see and do all of the things on your Orlando bucket list.

With this ultimate Orlando itinerary, you’ll be able to maneuver the crowds and have plenty of time to experience the best that an Orlando family vacation has to offer.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.   For more info, see disclosure.

Table of Contents

Orlando Itinerary: Best Time to Visit

Orlando is located in the central part of the U.S. state of Florida.

The best time to visit Orlando is from March to May when temperatures average in the low 80s.

Another popular time to visit is between September and November when crowds and prices are more manageable, and when temperatures are in the mid-80s.

For those looking to visit Orlando during the summer months, Orlando offers the same great attractions, but with higher temperatures (90+ during the day) and humidity to deal with.

It is very important to learn how to stay cool in the Florida heat when visiting during these months.

Additional planning tip: The Orlando theme parks are most busy during the summer months and over holiday breaks when kids are off from school.

Orlando Itinerary Ideas

Due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, many of the Florida attractions you’ll read about have special health and safety measures in place. Likewise, some events may be temporarily suspended. Please check each attraction’s website for details before your travel.

Below you can find suggested Orlando vacation itinerary ideas from one to six days.

(Many people refer to this when planning an Orlando itinerary for 5 days, as that is a popular length of time to stay.)

The itinerary suggestions are based on our personal experiences and are filled with insider tips for visiting Orlando for the first time.

(Read here if you’re specifically looking for things to do in Orlando for adults !)

No two Orlando vacations will be exactly the same, however, so use these itinerary suggestions as a guide.

You’ll need to adjust your itinerary as needed to account for weather, where you stay, how much time you spend at each attraction, and the varying interests of your travel party.

Our recent Orlando itinerary was primarily a Walt Disney World vacation as well as includes some of the other most fun things to do in Orlando .

*All of our top recommended restaurants, landmarks, and attractions are bolded. Their physical locations fit into the flow of this itinerary. If you choose to substitute a restaurant or attraction in their place, be sure to adjust the timing of your itinerary accordingly.

Orlando Itinerary: Day 1

• Arrival day!
• Check-in to your Orlando accommodations and get settled in.
• Afterward, head to Disney Springs for an evening of shopping and entertainment. Have dinner at the #1 rated restaurant by USA Today, The Boathouse .

Where We Stayed in Orlando

We did not hit up a theme park or do anything crazy upon our first day arriving in Orlando (I recommend this!).

Instead, we simply checked into our hotel, spent the afternoon by the pool, relaxed, and got a good night’s rest.

We felt that this was vital in order to be energized for the days ahead.

Our choice of accommodations was Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Lake Buena Vista , which far exceeded our expectations.

Located a short distance from both Disney World (8 miles) and Universal Studios (9 miles), this resort is prime real estate for being central to all of the Orlando action.

Priced at less than $100/night, booking here was also one of the ways we traveled on a budget during this family vacation.

Find our detailed review and a recap of its family-friendly amenities on our dedicated post about Holiday Inn Resort Lake Buena Vista; our favorite off-site hotel near Disney !

Additional planning tip: A feature of IHG properties, kids eat free at Holiday Inn Resort Lake Buena Vista.

The presence of an on-site Applebees here means that with each paid adult meal, the kids get their own Applebees meal at no cost! This is incredibly convenient and cost-effective.

Disney Springs

No family vacation in Orlando would be complete without a stroll around the reinvented Disney Springs!

Disney Springs  is a themed retail, dining, and entertainment center inspired by Florida’s charming waterfront towns. Four distinct neighborhoods―The Landing, Marketplace, West Side, and Town Center—are built around bubbling ponds and springs.

Highlights here include Amphicar tours (a cross between a car and a boat), helium balloon rides, world-class shopping, and the biggest Star Wars memorabilia retailer known to man.

Additional planning tip: If you’re looking for some fun date night ideas (without the kids!) while you’re in Orlando, here are some fun things to do in Orlando for adults .

Orlando Itinerary: Day 2

• Start off your Orlando itinerary at none other than, Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom !
• Grab coffee and donuts at Main Street Bakery as you head into the park.
• Once inside, you’ll realize there is so much to do and it is hard to pull yourself away. For this reason, plan to enjoy both lunch and dinner at one of the many Magic Kingdom restaurants on-site.

Magic Kingdom

Our trip to Orlando was primarily a Disney-themed visit with the intention of visiting 3 of the 4 Disney parks.

Ultimately, with this being our first time taking the kids to Orlando or any of the Disney parks, we undoubtedly had to start off with a visit to Magic Kingdom .

Knowing that we wanted to jam-pack as much as possible into our time there, we arrived first thing in the morning and executed our 1-day Magic Kingdom itinerary .

After an absolutely amazing day , we returned to our hotel for a night swim and a Disney movie by the pool before falling fast asleep.

Additional planning tip: Maximize your time at Magic Kingdom during your Orlando itinerary by utilizing our exclusive Disney Fastpass secrets to best structure your day!

Orlando Itinerary: Day 3

• Spend the entire day touring Epcot .
• Enjoy dining at one of the many delicious restaurants at Epcot (there are literally so many to choose from!).

Next up on our 6-day Orlando itinerary was to spend an entire day at Epcot .

We knew we were in for a real treat when visiting here, for Epcot is home to both rides and attractions, as well as the World Showcase.

Needless to say, we loved it here!

And once again, after making the most of our 1-day itinerary at Epcot , we left feeling happy and blessed – with a tummy full of pizza from world-famous Via Napoli !

Don’t forget to stay for the new  Epcot Forever  fireworks display that replaced 20-year park staple IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.

The best thing about Epcot Forever is that it can be viewed anywhere within Epcot that offers a clear view of the World Showcase Lagoon

Orlando Itinerary: Day 4

• Take a break from the theme parks and head to the beach. Daytona Beach that is! You’re in Florida, after all!
• Afterward, head back to Orlando and take a stroll around the Disney Boardwalk .
• Eat at the ESPN Sports Club or another nostalgic restaurant on the Boardwalk.

Daytona Beach

On the first of our Disney non-park days when visiting Orlando, we chose to spend the day at the beach.

Daytona Beach is located a convenient 73 miles from Orlando and provides so many amazing opportunities for family fun!

Though there is so much to see and do directly in Orlando, I could not go without dipping my toes into the ocean while visiting the beautiful state of Florida.

We have so many memories from the Daytona Beach family fun that we experienced during our 6-day Orlando itinerary!

Additional planning tip: Day 4 could be spent venturing 65 miles to Cocoa Beach instead. Pair it with a visit to the nearby Kennedy Space Center.

ESPN Sports Club

We spent the evening of day 4 walking around the Disney Boardwalk.

The Disney Boardwalk is home to several gorgeous Disney-themed resorts, shops, and restaurants.

And yes, you are walking on a real wooden boardwalk, complete with street performers and views of a gorgeous lake.

To appease the sports fanatics in my family we enjoyed dinner at ESPN Sports Club .

Additional planning tip: A visit to Disney’s Boardwalk allows you to scope out several of the higher-end Disney Resorts. The awesome scenery and nautical vibe made this evening one of the highlights of our Orlando itinerary.

I would totally recommend a visit here!

Orlando Itinerary: Day 5

• Enjoy an awesome day at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom !
• Grab coffee and pastries at Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery as you make your way in.
• Pack a picnic lunch in your Disney day bag !
• In keeping with the animal-theme, enjoy dinner at the gigantic Rainforest Cafe located on-site.

Animal Kingdom

Little did we know that day 5 would end up being our favorite day at our now favorite theme park, Animal Kingdom .

The combination of animals, rides, shows, and attractions brings this place to life while making you feel right at home!

The overall vibe at Animal Kingdom is laid back, yet bustling with plenty of activity.

The safari-themed landscape is welcoming, yet rustic. Simply put, we wouldn’t change our 1-day Animal Kingdom itinerary for the world!

Rainforest Cafe

To stick with the animal theme, we stayed on-site and had dinner at Rainforest Cafe .

If you haven’t been to a Rainforest Cafe before, prepare yourself to be wow-ed!

Dancing gorillas, simulated rain showers, and the famous Volcano dessert make this the perfect experience to add yet another couple hours of joy into your day.

Orlando Itinerary: Day 6

• Enjoy loads of other family-friendly activities located in Orlando.
• If you’re up for more theme park fun, visit Universal Orlando Resort! Hit up either Universal Studios or Universal’s Islands of Adventure (the #1 theme park in the world!).
• Don’t forget to end your trip by attending a world-famous Disney dining show, the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue .

Orlando Activities

There are literally so many attractions in Orlando that it is impossible to see and do them all in one visit.

This is very important to understand when planning your Orlando itinerary for 5 days if there are a lot of attractions that you’re looking to do.

In other words, spend day 6 doing various other activities to make your Orlando, Florida family vacation a memorable one.

For us, we visited off-site souvenir shops, went miniature golfing, and visited Gatorland (to see the ‘Florida gators’ of course!).

Other popular non-theme park ideas include Boggy Creek Airboat Rides, Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park, Revolution Off-Road, and Discovery Cove.

Looking for a cool down? Consider some water park fun at either Disney’s Blizzard Beach or Universal’s Volcano Bay.

Last, you can opt for additional theme park options such as Legoland, Seaworld, and our favorites (with links to a full itinerary!) Universal Studios , or Islands of Adventure .

Orlando CityPass

Hands-down, if you plan on doing a lot of various activities while in Orlando, check out the  Orlando CityPASS .

You’ll save up to 50% at the top Orlando attractions listed above by purchasing the Orlando CityPASS here ! 

Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue

*Temporarily unavailable. Check the Disney website for updates.

We ended our 6-day Disney World itinerary by attending a highly rated, incredibly popular Disney dining show.

The Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue is Disney’s longest-running dinner theater show and continues to impress sold-out crowds on a daily basis.

Attending a dining event on a non-park day was fabulous as we did not have to rush through a park and/or worry about making our reservation time. We just got to si mply show up , and enjoy!

We loved our time at the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue so much that we wrote an entire blog post about it!

* Pack like a pro for your upcoming Orlando family vacation! Click the following image to get your FREE family vacation packing list that is both customizable and printable!

Orlando Vacation: Getting There

Here are my recommended travel resources to plan your Orlando itinerary whether it be arriving by airplane, personal vehicle, or RV.

Use the  Skyscanner  app to search hundreds of airlines, car rentals, and travel agencies to find unbeatable prices. Don’t forget to do a whole month’s search and to set flight alerts to keep you on top of securing a great deal:

Though most people arrive in Orlando by air (via the local Orlando International Airport), road-tripping to Orlando is also an extremely popular means of transportation to this vacation hub.

We decided to take on the road and travel 24 hours by mini-van from our home state of Minnesota to the city of Orlando.

Having gone into our adventure with a really good attitude, we loved experiencing this epic family road trip with one another.

Additional planning tip:  We have compiled our essential  tips for planning a family road trip  and how to create  road trip goodie bags  to help inspire you to consider a long-haul family road trip!

How to Get Around

Orlando is definitely not a walkable city, instead, it was planned as a car-friendly city.

The easiest way to get around Orlando is by car, which is why I highly recommend renting one when visiting there.

If not, check to see if your hotel/resort has complimentary transportation to Orlando attractions.

Likewise, look into rideshare services like Uber and Lyft as they are fabulous options for travelers who don’t want the expense or liability of a rental car.

Using Uber Orlando or Lyft Orlando can make getting around the theme parks easy, especially when you don’t want to rely on sporadic shuttle buses.

Where to Stay in Orlando

Where to stay when visiting Orlando may be one of the most complicated choices of your family vacation.

There are literally SO MANY places to stay in and around Orlando whether it be at high-end Disney-themed resorts, local hotels, or vacation rental condos, homes, and townhomes.

Your final selection will be based on price, availability, and on how far you’re willing to travel to the theme parks.

The most popular places to stay in Orlando include Hyatt Regency Orlando , JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes , Caribe Royale Orlando , and finally, Walt Disney World Dolphin .

For  current deals  and further inspiration on where to stay in Orlando, browse and book here:

Have you been to Orlando before? What was your favorite place or attraction that you visited? I’d love for you to comment below! Jen

If you enjoyed our 6-Day Orlando Itinerary , check out our Related Posts:

Disney World Touring Plans:

• 1-Day Magic Kingdom Itinerary: A Perfect Day At Disney
• 1-Day At Animal Kingdom Itinerary: The Perfect Family Touring Plan
• One Day Itinerary for Epcot: Family Touring Plan

Disney World Ride & FastPass+ Tips:

• ‘How-to’ Secrets and Tips for Booking Disney FastPasses+
• Top 5 Rides to FastPass+ at Magic Kingdom
• Disney World Magic Kingdom Wait Times (Longest and Shortest Lines)
• Top 5 Rides for Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

Disney World Planning Tips:

• The 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Our First Disney Vacation
• Disney Packing List: 9 Things You Can’t Forget
• 7 Things to do on a Disney World Non-Park Day
• Best Off-Site Hotel Near Disney World, Orlando
• Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue: Our Complete Guide

Disney World Cost:

• Disney World Cost Calculator: How Much Will it Cost?
• How to Save Money At Disney World: 15 Ways We Saved Big

*Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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10 Comments

Love this suggested itinerary. It’s perfect.

Thanks to Nicole! There is so much to do in Orlando that it is impossible to do everything in 1 trip 🙂

I would really love to take my boys to Disney World someday. We took them to Disneyland Paris a few years ago, but I have fond memories of the one in Florida. It would be nice to go with my boys! 🙂

Thanks for sharing!

You’re welcome! Disneyland Paris would be a fabulous experience! Let me know if you ever make it to Disney World in Orlando 🙂

This is a great itinerary for 6 days in Orlando! I’ve been wanting to do the Hoop Dee Doo Review. Definitely saving for our next visit!!

Yes, the Hoop Dee Doo was a highlight! I enjoyed getting to tour around the Wilderness Resort just as much as the show itself. So much to explore on the Disney property!

What a fun-filled itinerary! I haven’t been to Orlando in well over 15 years. I remember that Universal Studios theme park was my favorite back then. I love the beach day suggestions on this itinerary – I didn’t realize that they were so close.

Orlando is definitely a family-fun packed destination! You definitely have to be ready for the crowds, however 🙂

Great itinerary! We would love to visit Orlando soon! Magic Kingdom would be at the top of our list. 🙂

I’m glad that you like it! Magic Kingdom was a hit…this year we are going to Universal Studios for more of the ‘thrill’ rides.

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Artificially Intelligent Help for Planning Your Summer Vacation

Travel-focused A.I. bots and more eco-friendly transportation options in online maps and search tools can help you quickly organize your seasonal getaway.

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By J. D. Biersdorfer

J.D. Biersdorfer has been using smartphone apps for travel since the summer of 2007.

The summer travel season starts in just a few weeks, but if you are looking for software that goes beyond simply booking flights and hotels, you’re in luck. Search engines enhanced by artificial intelligence can help with your research and outline full itineraries. Certain older apps have recently been updated to suggest more eco-friendly travel options. And keeping it all organized on your phone is easier than ever. Here’s an overview.

Using an A.I. Travel Agent

General-purpose A.I.-powered search tools and chatbots like Google’s Gemini spin up a list of things to do on your vacation when asked, but A.I. bots that are fine-tuned for travel queries are often more comprehensive. These bots scout destinations, plan itineraries, search for accommodations and flights, map out road trips and do more — grabbing a lot of information at once and saving you all that time-consuming web trawling.

Give the software your specifics — like destination, length of stay, interests — and see what it suggests. Many A.I. helpers are free to use if you sign up for an account, but some charge a subscription fee for premium services; your app store has specifics.

Layla , formerly Roam Around, is one of the free vacation-oriented A.I. helpers you can find online, and it has teamed up with travel sites that include Skyscanner , Get Your Guide and Booking.com . If you prefer land-based car and camper journeys, Roadtrippers (free trial; $60 year) includes real-time traffic and air-quality information along with route planning. And old stalwarts like Tripadvisor and Expedia are now using A.I.-generated vacation builders.

But as others have also noted, while A.I. travel planners have much potential, many are still works in progress and usually display disclaimers admitting so.

A.I. bots have been known to offer generic advice like “enjoy lunch at a local restaurant,” suggest activities that are out of season or too far apart, repeatedly recommend the same restaurant, consistently steer you to their advertisers or point you to locations that have closed. If you ask different bots the same question, you may get nearly identical suggestions, all scraped from the same tourism websites.

Still, A.I. travel apps are improving as they learn, and can be useful for the trip research and coordination phase. Just be sure to double-check the bot’s work before you commit to a plan.

Finding Earth-Friendly Options

There’s no shortage of apps for booking transportation to your destination. But if you want to keep the environment in mind, recent updates to Google’s Maps and Search apps now suggest routes and methods that lower your personal impact on the planet.

Google for the past few years has been pointing people to flights with lower carbon emissions , alternative train routes , fuel-efficient driving directions and eco-friendly hotels . It is now expanding its walking, biking and public transit suggestions alongside car routes in several major cities and adding more electric-vehicle charging information. Google Flights shows jet emissions estimates . Google Search has a “consider taking the train” nudge with rail routes and prices under certain flight results.

Apple’s Maps app also shows mass transit , walking and cycling options for getting around town, along with charge-friendly routes for electric vehicles . However, the default apps on your phone are not the only aids. Third-party software for directions and sustainable travel abound.

For example, Citymapper, which covers most major cities in the United States, Europe and Asia, includes environmental impact statistics on some trips. Its directions often include accessibility options that avoid stairways , along with routes for the fastest, cheapest or easiest way to get where you’re going; Citymapper is free with in-app purchases.

Other apps available for those seeking environmentally minded vacations include Bikemap for community-sourced cycling routes around the world, HappyCow for vegan and vegetarian travelers and Tap Hydration and Water Stations to locate sources for refilling reusable water bottles.

Keeping Organized

If you don’t already have software for consolidating your trip information, your phone’s default apps can help. Electronic boarding passes, hotel reservations and advance tickets can be quickly added to the digital wallet on your phone; a pragmatic paper backup tucked in your bag is insurance. Google and Apple offer to automatically add reservations and events from email and messages to your calendar .

Free services like TripIt (and its phone apps ), TripCase (also with Android or iOS apps) and Wanderlog automatically put all your travel information in one place, typically by scanning the information in your confirmation emails. TripIt Pro , a $50-a-year subscription version, adds more features like seat, fare and airline-points trackers, as well as international travel tools and regional risk alerts like those for extreme weather that can affect airline schedules and public safety .

A.I. bots and travel apps will continue to evolve and, hopefully, make vacation planning even easier in the future. Just don’t forget to occasionally put the phone down and enjoy your time off once you get there.

J.D. Biersdorfer has been writing about consumer technology for The Times since 1998. She also creates the weekly interactive literary quiz for the Book Review and occasionally contributes reviews. More about J. D. Biersdorfer

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American and Chinese diplomats plan to meet in Geneva to begin what amounts to the first, tentative arms control talks  over the use of A.I.

Wayve, a London maker of A.I. systems for autonomous vehicles, said that it had raised $1 billion , an illustration of investor optimism about A.I.’s ability to reshape industries.

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A new category of apps promises to relieve parents of drudgery, with an assist from A.I.  But a family’s grunt work is more human, and valuable, than it seems.

Despite Mark Zuckerberg’s hope for Meta’s A.I. assistant to be the smartest , it struggles with facts, numbers and web search.

Much as ChatGPT generates poetry, a new A.I. system devises blueprints for microscopic mechanisms  that can edit your DNA.

Which A.I. system writes the best computer code or generates the most realistic image? Right now, there’s no easy way to answer those questions, our technology columnist writes .

WNBA will add charter flights on full-time basis this season

The WNBA plans to start a full-time charter flights program beginning this season, commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced Tuesday.

“This is a pretty historic moment for the league,” she told the Associated Press Sports Editors in New York. “I think players will be thrilled.”

The new travel program will launch “as soon as we can logistically get planes in places,” Engelbert said. She said funding an entire season of charter travel will cost about $25 million per year for the next two years.

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News of a full charter program is momentous for the WNBA, which will begin its 28th season on May 14 as viewership numbers are skyrocketing and a new crop of stars are entering the league. However, Engelbert’s comments also came as a surprise, at least to some around the sport. As of mid-afternoon on Tuesday, multiple general managers, who are not authorized to discuss the matter publicly, told The Athletic they were not made aware of changes to the travel plans prior to Engelbert’s announcement.

“I think everybody’s immediate response is great. What it all looks like, we’re still gathering information. We don’t know,” Aces coach Becky Hammon said. “But I think it’s definitely a good thing for our players in our league. and Everybody’s very happy, they’re not going to have to stand in security lines as much or as long.” Fever coach Christie Sides called the move a “turning point” on social media.

Incredible TURNING POINT in our league! Extremely happy for the players! They deserve this! #GoFever https://t.co/92sgGa0fgr — Christie Sides (@ChristieSides) May 7, 2024

Travel accommodations have long been a source of consternation for players around the league, which primarily uses commercial flights to travel to road games. The CBA requires teams to book economy-plus tickets for players, and players must pay out of pocket for first-class accommodations. The WNBPA has previously maintained that existing travel conditions pose health and safety issues. A full charter program would eliminate the possibility of unwanted interactions, similar to what Phoenix Mercury center Brittney Griner encountered last June, when she was harassed in Dallas Fort Worth Airport while on a road trip by a social media provocateur.

Pickman: Why WNBA charter flights should no longer be considered 'competitive advantages'

Players have also dealt with delays and cancellations through the years, and frequent coach travel isn’t ideal for tall athletes.

Tuesday’s announcement comes in the wake of the league making smaller changes to travel accommodations in recent years. Last season, the WNBA expanded its charter policy and allowed private flights for the entirety of the postseason and select regular-season games, such as back-to-back contests, at a cost of $4 million. Engelbert said that with the league operating on a condensed schedule due to the mid-season Olympic break, there will be 14 back-to-back games this season where charter flights will be utilized.

Prior to April’s WNBA Draft, Engelbert reiterated that the WNBA was not going to “jeopardize the financial viability of this league” to implement a season-long, league-wide charter program. She had stressed the importance of the upcoming media rights negotiations (and in turn an expected significant revenue boost) as a way to achieve this. Its current deal with ESPN runs through 2025.

“Given we have teams moving to bigger arenas, they’re selling out bigger arenas. Given the momentum and business is booming at the team level — also at the league level — could only lead to our corporate partnership sales. We’re seeing a lot of uptick there,” she said in explaining the timing of why the league was planning to put on a full-charter program now. “You need a long-term economic model to fund something as expensive as charter for a whole season, for 12, soon to be 13, 16 teams. You need that long-term revenue model, and we haven’t had it.”

WNBPA executive director Terri Jackson, however, had previously argued that the league did not have to wait for all teams to be able to fly charter for it to go into effect. The New York Liberty had been fined a league-record $500,000 for violating the collective bargaining agreement after their repeated use of charter planes during the second half of the 2021 season. Las Vegas Aces owner Mark Davis has also advocated for teams to have the option to use charter travel.

The upcoming WNBA season appears to be its most anticipated in years. April’s Draft averaged a record 2.446 million viewers, a 307 percent increase in viewership over last year, and was the most-viewed WNBA telecast since 2000. A ratings boost is expected to follow into the regular season, where Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese have further bridged the connection between the college game and professional level. South Carolina’s 87-75 win over Clark and Iowa on April 7 averaged 18.9 million viewers, the most-viewed women’s college basketball game ever and the most-viewed college basketball game (men’s or women’s) on record for an ESPN platform. The 2024 NCAA Women’s Final Four was the most-viewed on record, and the tournament as a whole was up 121 percent from 2023.

WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike released a statement , saying: “I am thrilled to see a significant change in policy that will permit and provide charter travel across all teams throughout the 2024 season and going forward. On behalf of the players, I express my appreciation and support for a bold move by the Commissioner and team governors that in turn shows that they understand and value the health and safety of the players. It is time to be transformational. It’s time to bet on women!”

— The Athletic ’s Sabreena Merchant contributed to this report.

(Photo of Cathy Engelbert: Sarah Stier / Getty Images)

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Ben Pickman is a staff writer for The Athletic covering the WNBA and women’s college basketball. Previously, he was a writer at Sports Illustrated where he primarily covered women’s basketball and the NBA. He has also worked at CNN Sports and the Wisconsin Center for Journalism Ethics. Follow Ben on Twitter @ benpickman

Video shows FedEx cargo plane land on its nose in Istanbul after landing gear fails

A Boeing-767 type cargo plane operated by FedEx ran into a couple of bumps and sparks as it attempted to land at Istanbul Airport in Turkey without its front landing gear Wednesday.

The cargo plane, operated by FedEx, was flying from Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport, according to a statement by Turkey's Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu , when the pilot of the aircraft informed the control tower at Istanbul Airport that its landing gear had failed to open. The official said airport officials sprang into action and assisted the aircraft in touching down, while managing to remain on the runway. Emergency response, medical teams and necessary fire extinguishing equipment was also deployed on standby, Uraloğlu said.

Video footage from the landing shows the plane touching down on the runway before it tilts forward and starts dragging on its nose the runway creating a cloud of dust and sparks. It eventually comes to a stop with its fuselage touching the ground. As the plane comes to a halt, fire trucks douse the plane with water.

"With the successful guidance of our staff, the aircraft landed smoothly on its fuselage," Uraloğlu said.

No injuries reported

Two pilots were onboard the aircraft, according to Uraloğlu's statement, and were medically assessed after the landing. No injuries were reported.

The runway where the plane had landed was temporarily closed for all flights as multiple agencies gathered on site. A video shared by the minister shows crews and officials gathered around the aircraft while a fire truck and ambulance are parked on the side.

An investigation into the incident is ongoing, said Uraloğlu without going into further details into why the landing gear had failed.

Another Boeing plane issue? Don't fall for the headlines.

The freight aircraft involved in the accident is nearly 10 years old and was delivered to FedEx in 2014, according to a Boeing spokesperson. Following delivery, operators oversee ongoing maintenance for airplanes in operation. Reuters reported that Boeing 767 freighter is one of the most common cargo planes.

FedEx, meanwhile, in a statement to USA TODAY, said that the FedEx Express Flight 6268 was flying from Paris to Istanbul when it experienced an issue during landing.

"There were no reported injuries to our crew members," FedEx said. "We are coordinating with investigation authorities and will provide additional information as it is available."

While Boeing incidents have been in the news in recent months after a series of high-profile incidents, aviation experts maintain you shouldn't worry about flying .

“We don’t have to worry that there’s something systemically wrong with aviation,” Clint Balog, an associate professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, previously told USA TODAY.

Contributing: Staff, USA TODAY

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @saman_shafiq7.

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Timberwolves plan for Chris Finch to be in Denver for Game 1

Stephen A. Smith has a hilarious reaction to Shannon Sharpe's take over which team wins the series: the Timberwolves or the Nuggets. (2:14)

• Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Timberwolves are planning for coach Chris Finch to be with them in Denver to begin their Western Conference semifinal series following his knee surgery -- and considering seating configurations that would allow him to safely be on the bench during games.

Finch's procedure to repair a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee Wednesday went well, according to assistant coach Micah Nori, who has temporarily taken the lead in Finch's absence. Finch directed the initiation of the strategy for the Nuggets this week before going into surgery.

The team will fly Thursday night to Denver ahead of Saturday's Game 1. Provided his recovery is on track, Finch would likely travel separately to allow more healing time, Nori said.

In the NBA, the bench is cramped with reserve players and large coaching and training staffs with high-priced floor seats surrounding them to be right on top of the action. It will be a challenge to create enough space for Finch to keep his leg extended, and to be out of harm's way in case another loose-ball chase or player collision comes too close for comfort. The Timberwolves have discussed relocating head athletic trainer Gregg Farnam's seat to give Finch room.

If they can't make that setup work, Finch would likely join the team in the locker room for pregame and halftime meetings and watch the action from above in a suite.

"In typical Finchy fashion, he's like, 'I don't want to sit there and send text messages to somebody behind the bench,'" Nori said.

With largely the same rotation players as last year and a coaching staff with strong chemistry in a third full season together, the Timberwolves are confident they can weather the disruption of Finch's injury without missing a beat on the court.

"I'm not saying Finchy isn't funny and all that stuff, but Finchy can seem a little more serious than Micah, and it's good to have that kind of balance," said point guard Mike Conley , who won the NBA's Teammate of the Year award Wednesday. "Guys really respect Micah and what he brings to our team."

Finch finished third in the voting for the NBA Coach of the Year award, which went to Oklahoma City 's Mark Daigneault.

"He does not want to be the focus. He trusts all of us. He trusts the players. He's like, 'You guys do yourselves. You've done enough,'" Nori said. "The players, at the end of the day, are going to be the ones who decide this series."

Finch was hurt when Conley collided with him late in the Game 4 win at Phoenix that gave the Timberwolves their first series sweep in franchise history.

"He made us all feel better to see him in great spirits the next day and being able to travel back with us," center Rudy Gobert said. "It's unfortunate, obviously, but we're here to support him and we're going to try to make him proud from a distance."