How to Plan a Universal Studios Vacation

Plan to spend at least two or three days to experience the high points. Universal Studios Hollywood includes a movie-based theme park and Studio Tour, the CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex, the Universal Cinemas and the Gibson Amphitheatre concert and special event venue.
The Universal Orlando resort includes two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, as well as Universal CityWalk, a restaurant, shopping and nighttime entertainment complex, and three on-site Loews hotels.

Time your trip during the off season to avoid crowds. Generally, this is during the school year, particularly October, November, January and March. Avoid the weeks surrounding the winter holidays and spring break. Visit midweek rather than on a weekend.
Keep in mind Florida and California experience cold weather December through February. If you love water rides, avoid these chillier times of year. Be aware that during these months, the parks open later in the day and close earlier.

Purchase your tickets online, in advance. Doing so will save you money, and let you skip the ticket booths at the main entrance. If you are in the military, or belong to AARP, AAA or CAA, inquire about discounts. Children 2 years old or younger are admitted free.
In Los Angeles, Universal's "Front of the Line" pass is another time-saver. For an additional fee, you get priority access to all rides, shows and attractions. In Orlando, the "Universal Express Plus Pass" similarly allows you to skip the lines.
To go the "VIP" route at either destination, schedule a guided walking tour to give you behind-the-scenes access and priority ride entrance.
When planning your budget, keep in mind the additional costs of parking, meals, stroller, wheelchair and/or locker rentals. The current fees for these are posted on the parks' websites.

Print out the park map, and mark your "must-see" attractions to keep you focused when you get there. If you have time at the end of the day, backtrack to attractions not on your list. Check the websites beforehand to find out about any rides that may be closed during your visit, and those which have height restrictions.

Pack essentials for the day, including sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses), camera and video recorder, comfortable walking shoes, and a change of clothes or towels if you go on water rides. The parks stay open when it rains, so check the forecast and dress appropriately.
Outfit everyone with a cell phone if your group will be splitting up. Program everyone's number into each phone. Walkie-talkies don't work well in crowded theme parks, because many people use the same channels and cause interference.