Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Whether it’s your first time at Walt Disney World or you’ve been there before there are some mistakes that you will want to prevent. There are many things that go into planning your Walt Disney World vacation, and some of these can slip your mind, so here are some Walt Disney World vacation mistakes that you will want to avoid.
Not Staying On Walt Disney World Property
When deciding where to stay on your Walt Disney World vacation, there are many options and it can be a little overwhelming. One mistake people make is not staying close enough to the theme parks. That takes extra time out of your day to get there and back. If you’re going to truly enjoy the full experience of a Walt Disney World vacation, then why not stay on property? There are many different Walt Disney World Resort options to choose from, and there are all different price ranges to fit your budget. Plus, there is Walt Disney World transportation all over the property, so whether you take a bus, monorail, boats, or even a walking path there is no question on how you’re going to get to where you’re going. It’s easy to book right from the Walt Disney World website.
Not Wearing Comfortable Shoes
When you’re packing you need to bring comfortable shoes to wear. Some days guests walk on average 11 miles at the parks, so comfortable shoes will be a must. It also doesn’t hurt to bring an extra pair of socks in case you get caught in the rain, because who likes wearing wet socks all day?
Not Checking the Weather
If you think that Central Florida is nice weather and sunshine all year round you are very wrong. In the winter it actually can get pretty cool, especially at night, so if you are traveling during those months make sure you check the forecast and bring a jacket and warmer clothes. In the summer it does get very hot and humid, so dress accordingly and check what the weather forecast is going to be before you leave for your vacation,and before you head to the park. In the summer it does rain every afternoon but don’t let that stop your fun. There are plenty of indoor attractions and a rainy day at Disney is still a better day than at most places. Pack a poncho and you’ll be all set.
Not Drinking Enough Water
As stated in the last paragraphs, especially in the summer it is super hot, so stay hydrated. Although there are plenty of other fun drinks you can get it is very important that you drink plenty of water. You can get free cups of ice water at any quick service restaurant so just ask a cast member in the front. Passing out in the middle of your Walt Disney World vacation does not make for the best memories.
Not Doing Your Research
It is important to do plenty of research before you leave on your vacation, especially if you’ve never been to Walt Disney World before. Check out what your must do attractions are and make a list of those. You don’t want to head home and find out that you missed a full section of one of the parks that you didn’t even know existed. It’s also important when you get to the park to grab a map. That way, you can find your way around. You might want to sit down and mark out what you need to experience to make the most of your day.
Not Checking Park Hours
Make sure each day you check what the hours are for each theme park. You don’t want to think that you have hours left just to discover the park closes in 15 minutes. This way you can get the most out of your days at the parks and get in as many of the attractions as you would like.
Not Doing All Four Walt Disney World Theme Parks
If it’s possible make sure you get in all four of the theme parks. They are all different and have something unique to offer. You really don’t want to miss any of them. If you are tight on time then park hopping can be a really good option. If you’ve been spending the day at one of the four theme parks at 2 PM you can then head to one of the other three, but you need to have park hopper on your ticket. It is an extra fee so plan that while budgeting.
Not Giving Yourself a Relax Day
Remember, when on vacation you’re supposed to relax and recharge. As much fun as the parks are they can also be exhausting, so if at all possible give yourself a relax day. You can chill by the pool and shop at Disney Springs. Just plan a day that you can sleep in and really take it easy. So often while you’re at Walt Disney World you’re constantly on the go, so give yourself a chance to relax.
Not Making a Dining Reservation
Most full service restaurants at the theme parks, Disney Springs, and the resorts take reservations. You should book those ahead of time so you can have a meal at your top choice restaurant. Most of them do fill up pretty quickly so there is a very low chance that you’ll be able to walk up day of and get in. You can easily make a dining reservation on the My Disney Experience App or on the Walt Disney World website. Then you will be all set and ready to go and you won’t need to think about it again. You can make dining reservations up to 60 days in advance. Make sure you include your entire party on the number of guests, including babies and people who might not be eating.
Not Making a Park Reservation
Since reopening after the COVID-19 pandemic you are required to have a Disney Park Pass Reservation to get into one of the four main theme parks. Book them as soon as you can, and make sure that each person in your party has a reservation because Disney is very strict. Check the availability calendar to see what days are open. The exception is if you go to Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park because they are not doing a reservation system and it is first come, first served.
