Planning the Ultimate Disney Trip? I got you!
Tips & Tricks for an Unforgettable Vacation
Planning a trip to Disney can either be super stressful, or a super fun part of the experience, with the right tips and tricks of course! Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned Disney-goer, you realize really quickly that proper planning can make all the difference. Here’s your ultimate guide to ensuring your Disney vacation is as enchanting and stress-free as possible.
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit
Timing is everything when it comes to a Disney vacation. The best times to visit Disney parks are during the off-peak seasons, which typically include:
Mid-January to mid-February: Post-holiday lull.
Mid-April to mid-May: After spring break and before summer.
Mid-September to mid-November: After summer crowds and before the holiday rush.
Avoid major holidays and school vacation periods to experience shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere. But keep in mind this is Disney so you can do your best to avoid the crowds but their will always be lines!
2. Book Accommodations Early
Disney properties and nearby hotels fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Book your stay as early as possible to secure the best rates and availability. Consider staying at a Disney resort for added benefits like early park entry, Disney’s late night extended hours and complimentary transportation like buses, ferries, skyliner, and monorials! Some of our favorite places to stay were at Yacht Club and Disneys Art of Animation. I think the next time we go we will try Beach club though I absolutely love the location!
3. Plan Your Park Days
With multiple parks to choose from, planning which parks to visit on which days can save you time and stress. Make sure that you check the Disney calendar online so that you can take advantage of the extended hours on the right days and know things like what time the fireworks start!
4. Utilize the My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app is a game-changer for organizing your trip. With this app, you can:
Book FastPass+ selections: Reserve access to popular attractions and skip the regular lines.
Check wait times: Monitor real-time wait times for rides and attractions.
Make dining reservations: Secure a spot at your favorite Disney restaurants.
Navigate the parks: Use the map feature to find attractions, dining, and restrooms.
5. Make Dining Reservations
Disney offers so many amazing dining options, from quick service to character dining experiences. Reservations for popular dining spots can fill up months in advance, so make your dining reservations as early as possible. Consider booking a few character meals to add extra magic to your trip. We loved the Chef Mickey’s Buffet, Woodys Round Up Rodeo BBQ at Hollywood studios, Space 220 at Epcot and having dinner at Cinderellas Castle! These all book up fast so make your dining reservations as soon as you book your trip!
6. Pack Smart
Packing efficiently can make your Disney experience smoother:
Comfortable shoes: Expect to do a lot of walking – like 25k steps so bring 2 pairs of supportive shoes. No matter how comfy your shoes are youll want to switch it up just in case some get wet on a water ride. Also you might want to bring crocs for the kids in case they want to hit up some splash pad areas!
Weather-appropriate clothing: Check the forecast and pack accordingly. Don’t forget ponchos for sudden rain showers. Its always randomly raining at Disney.
Park essentials: Check out my complete Amazon list here.
Disney Park Bag Video
7. Plan for Breaks
Disney parks are full of things to see but , and taking breaks is crucial to avoid burnout, especially with young kids. We liked to hand out in some quick service areas and gift shops to get out of the heat. The really nice thing about staying on Disney property is that it’s easy to hop on a monorail or sky liner to go back to your hotel if your kids are younger and need naps.
8. Take Advantage of Extra Magic Hours
If you’re staying at a Disney resort, you’ll have access to Extra Magic Hours, where specific parks open early or stay open late exclusively for resort guests. Use this time to enjoy popular rides with shorter wait times.
9. Use the Rider Switch Service
For families with young children, Disney’s Rider Switch service allows one adult to wait with a child while the other rides, and then switch without waiting in line again. This service is available on many attractions and can save a lot of time.
10. Stay Hydrated!
I have so many tips of this in my Disney series but keep everyone in your group hydrated and energized throughout the day. Bring snacks and refillable water bottles. You can always place an insta cart order deliver to your hotel with things like water bottles, fresh fruit, food pouches and then have bell service keep it cold for you until you need it! Just rember to bring a backpack cooler to keep everything cold! There are also water fountains and quick service refill stations throughout the parks.
11. Capture the Memories
Disney’s PhotoPass service allows you to have professional photos taken throughout the parks. Consider purchasing Memory Maker for unlimited digital downloads of your vacation photos. Of course you’ll be taking your own photos but I always end up falling in love with some that they take as well!
12. Be Flexible and Have Fun
While planning is crucial, flexibility can make your trip more enjoyable. Be prepared for unexpected changes and go with the flow. The most important part of your Disney trip is to have fun and make amazing memories with your family.
Your Disney vacation can be such an fun filled amazing experience filled with joy, love, and unforgettable moments. My kids are constantly talking about the autographs they got and fireworks they saw and the characters they met. I’m just so happy happy that we took them when we did and didn’t wait until they were “older” This post is going to help you travel to Disney Like A BOSS, I cant wait for your family to experience it!
