1. Bring Comfy Shoes: The parks are massive. In total Disney World is larger than the size of San Francisco stretching over 40 square miles. So, what does that mean for you? TONS OF WALKING. Be sure to bring SEVERAL pair of comfortable shoes. Not just 1 pair. After hopping off of Kali River Rapids, and walking in wet sneakers all day you may have some blisters. So, you are certainly going to want to have a second pair of comfy shoes on standby for your next day of walking.
2. Dining Reservations are a Must: Disney's dining options can get booked up quickly, especially at popular restaurants and character dining experiences. Make dining reservations well in advance to secure a spot at your desired locations and meal times.
3. Pack Snacks and Hydration: While there are plenty of food options in the parks, they can get expensive. Pack some portable snacks and refillable water bottles to keep everyone energized and hydrated throughout the day. I also highly recommend bringing a refillable water bottle. They are several no-touch water refill stations and you can ask for FREE ice water at any of the Disney quick service stations.
4. Character Interactions Take Time: Meeting characters is a highlight for many families, but keep in mind that the lines for character meet-and-greets can be quite long. Plan accordingly and consider focusing on the characters that mean the most to your family.
5. Midday Breaks are Essential: Disney vacations can be overwhelming, especially for younger kids. One of the reasons I prefer staying onsite with littles is because we have the option to take a midday break to return to your hotel for a nap or relaxation. This will help prevent overexhaustion and meltdowns.
6. Download the Disney App: The official My Disney Experience App is a valuable tool for navigating the parks. It provides real-time wait times, showtimes, dining reservations, and interactive maps to help you make the most of your day.
7. Be Flexible with Plans: While it's great to have an itinerary, be prepared for things to not go exactly as planned. Weather, ride closures, and unexpected events can affect your schedule. Flexibility is key to ensuring everyone has a positive experience.
8. Stay for the Evening Entertainment: Disney's nighttime shows, parades, and fireworks displays are a magical way to end your day. Make sure to check the schedule and secure a good spot ahead of time, as these events can draw large crowds. I recommend staking out a spot for the Magic Kingdom fireworks at least one hour before showtime.
9. Use Rider Switch for Height Restrictions: If you're traveling with children of varying heights, some members of your group might not meet height requirements for certain rides. Disney offers a Rider Switch service, allowing adults to take turns riding while one waits with the non-riding child. If you are interested in more information about this, click here.
10. Budget for Souvenirs: Disney merchandise is enticing, but it can quickly add up. Set a souvenir budget before you go, and consider purchasing items strategically throughout the trip to avoid overspending. I prefer to buy a Disney gift card before our trip with whatever dollar amount I am budgeting for souvenirs. This always helps not go over what you had budgeted out to spend.
Remember that each family's Disney experience is unique, so these tips can help you tailor your vacation to fit your family's preferences and needs. Enjoy the magic of Disney with these insights in mind!
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