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8 Common Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Walt Disney World Trip

A view of Cinderella Castle at dusk in Walt Disney World Free. The castle is illuminated with blue and gold lights, surrounded by people. Trees and lampposts are visible, with the sky gradually transitioning to night. The scene captures a moment of magic and wonder.
Credit: Inside the Magic

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World? It’s no secret that this magical place is full of exciting choices and unique experiences for every family member. But even with all the Disney magic around, it’s still possible to make a few missteps that could leave you feeling overwhelmed. Wondering if your Disney plans could use a tweak?

Here are eight common mistakes to avoid on your visit—and how to make your trip unforgettable!

8. Skipping Early Lightning Lane Reservations

Let’s talk Lightning Lane—the key to skipping long lines at your favorite attractions! If you waited until the last minute to book, you might find popular rides fully booked. And if you’re visiting during a busy time, like summer or holidays, long standby lines are almost inevitable. Imagine arriving at Magic Kingdom, only to see wait times soaring past an hour for must-do rides like Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin or Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. It’s no fun trying to plan your day around standby lines!

A sign for "Lightning Lane" is displayed against a colorful medieval-themed backdrop, featuring red and white striped and blue shield decorations. People walk in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Credit: Disney Tips

Make It Right: Mark your calendar for Lightning Lane reservations as soon as your booking window opens—60 days in advance for Disney resort guests and 30 days for others. This small step can help you avoid disappointment, save time, and keep everyone happy!

7. Skipping Dining Reservations for Popular Spots

Planning to dine at an iconic Disney spot, like Wish Makers Enchanted Dining at Cinderella Castle or Be Our Guest Restaurant? These places are in high demand, and walk-in availability is often limited. Avoid setting expectations that may lead to disappointed little ones and frustrated parents.

Make It Right: Use the My Disney Experience app to book dining reservations as soon as possible, especially if your heart is set on dining at popular restaurants. Reservations open 180 days in advance, so plan ahead for the best chance at securing a table!

6. Not Taking Breaks

If you’re determined to make the most of every minute, you might skip breaks in favor of non-stop rides and attractions. But even Disney can feel exhausting without rest, especially for little ones who need naps. Over time, non-stop park hopping can lead to meltdowns or exhaustion.

Make It Right: Schedule breaks! Whether it’s a midday nap at your resort or a leisurely lunch, allowing time to rest makes all the difference. Recharge, refresh, and return to the magic feeling ready for more!

5. Forgetting Extra Socks and Rain Gear

Central Florida weather can be unpredictable, with quick downpours arriving out of nowhere. Wet socks or shoes can put a damper on your day and make even the most magical moments feel uncomfortable.

Family In The Rain Walt Disney World

Credit: Misfit Photographer, Flickr

Make It Right: Pack a few essentials in your park bag: extra socks, a lightweight poncho, and sunscreen. A few minutes of prep can save you from hours of discomfort if rain clouds roll in. Disney magic is always best enjoyed when you’re dry and prepared!

4. Wearing Brand New Shoes

New shoes at Disney? Sounds like a recipe for sore feet! Between walking, standing, and racing to the next ride, your shoes will face a workout. New shoes can easily lead to blisters, foot pain, and a far less magical experience.

Make It Right: Choose comfortable, broken-in shoes that offer support. And if you do decide on new shoes, wear them for several days before your trip to make sure they’re park-ready.

3. Not Drinking Enough Water

Disney days are packed with fun, but they’re also hot and often very humid. It’s easy to forget to hydrate, and Florida heat can be intense. Dehydration can hit before you know it, turning a fun day into an uncomfortable one.

Make It Right: Water is available for free at quick-service locations across the parks, so make use of it! Bring a refillable water bottle and remember to take regular sips. Your body will thank you, especially after a few hours in the Florida sun.

2. Going Bag-Free

It might be tempting to keep your pockets light, but a park bag can be a lifesaver when you need extra essentials on hand. No bag often means juggling items like water bottles, phones, snacks, and sunscreen, leading to stress and misplaced items.

Guests walking in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom behind Cinderella Castle

cinderella-castle-fantasyland-featured-ed-aguila

Make It Right: A lightweight backpack or small crossbody bag will make all the difference. Stock it with must-haves like sunscreen, water, snacks, extra socks, and anything else that will make your day easier.

1. Overplanning with a Rigid Itinerary

Disney World is full of exciting possibilities, but rigidly scheduled days can lead to stress rather than enjoyment. Attractions, shows, dining, and characters are best enjoyed with flexibility—sticking strictly to a schedule can feel more like a chore than a vacation.

Make It Right: Create a flexible plan, keeping your must-do experiences at the top but leaving space for spontaneous moments. Take the time to slow down, enjoy a snack, or meet characters along the way. With Disney, magic often happens when you least expect it!

Ready to make the most of your Disney World adventure? Avoid these common mistakes, take a little time to plan, and savor the magic that awaits!

About Rebekah Tyndall Burkett

Rebekah grew up in Forney, Texas and lives just outside of Dallas. She’s been a Disney superfan since childhood, experiencing the magic at Walt Disney World for the first time at the age of 11. Journeys to Neverland are at least a yearly occurrence for her, her husband and her four children (the Fab Four). When they go to the parks, they stay in Florida for three weeks at a time. Rebekah loves exploring the history of the parks, the genius behind the Magic in the person of Walt Disney, and she is intrigued by all things Disney World and Disney Imagineering. When in the parks, Rebekah and her husband Scott make the most of their time by enjoying every minute with their Fab Four, by delving deeper into Walt’s vision for the parks and into the history behind the Walt Disney World Resort, and by photographing the many different types of architecture at Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and on the World Showcase at EPCOT. When she’s not in the parks, Rebekah is excitedly setting travel dates and planning her family’s next adventure to their happy place deep within the Sunshine State. On breaks from planning her next trip, Rebekah is a writer, journalist and children’s author, penning children’s books about kids with special needs that she affectionately calls “believement-achievement” stories. Her hobbies include creative writing, paper crafting and interviewing Imagineers. She is also an advocate for Autism Awareness and for children with developmental disabilities of all kinds.