There are few things worse than being unprepared for a vacation. Whether it’s forgetting your pajamas to mixing up your dates, little snafus can damage the relaxed routine you’re hoping to create. While you might feel prepared to enjoy the most magical place on earth, it’s important to understand what not to do just as important as it is to understand what you should be doing. That’s why we’re sharing ten common mistakes and how to avoid them while at the Disney theme parks.
1. Not Buying Tickets In Advance
Having a general understanding of your itinerary is a good idea when on any vacation, but especially when you are at Disney World. That’s not only because of all that the Disney parks have to offer, but also because you can save money by doing so. If you wait until you’re at the park’s gates, you risk not only waiting in longer lines and potentially spending more money!
When buying tickets in advance, make sure that you have an idea of your itinerary and are giving yourself and your family enough time in each park. Most importantly, no matter how robust or strategic your itinerary is, being able to roll with the punches when lines get long or members of your party get tired is the best thing you could do for all involved.
2. Not Making Dinner Reservations
Whether you’re looking to enjoy one nice meal or sit down at a table for every breakfast, lunch, and , dining reservations are key to ensuring you get in. While there is never a short supply of food while at Walt Disney World, if you’d like your first choice of restaurants at a reasonable time, a dining reservation is a must have. It’s easy to book, edit, and cancel these reservations through the MyDisneyExperience app.
If you do plan to avoid the restaurants, don’t forget to have snacks stashed away for when a craving comes on.
3. Not Staying On Property
This one might be controversial, but staying on Disney property can save you time, money, and hassle so not staying on property is a mistake. It’s by far the best way to avoid a car rental and has constant entertainment. From efficient transportation systems to in-house entertainment, staying at a Disney hotel is one of the best decisions to make in the early planning stages. Also, with their variety of resorts within a range of prices, it’s a much more attainable option than many belief.
4. Not Exploring The Walt Disney World Resort
With all the Disney World has to offer, it’s important that you branch out and don’t lean your entire trip on the Disney parks. With over twenty-five themed hotels, world-class dining, and Disney Springs – a base for shopping, dining, and entertaining all in one – sticking to the theme parks is one of the easiest ways to miss out on a lot of what Walt Disney World has to offer.
Try to take a moment every day to do something you haven’t done while on Disney World property or do something outside the typical Disney theme park offerings.
Read Also: TRON RIDE DISNEY WORLD
5. Not Researching Dates
Walt Disney World has different things to offer depending on the time of year you go. Research your dates before planning your visit to ensure the weather, crowds, and activities are best for what you’re hoping to accomplish on your trip. If you’re hoping to visit when there are lower crowds, avoid Spring Break, Summer Break, and holidays.
Furthermore, Disney World has various offerings throughout the year that might pique your interest. Rather than planning your trip around your schedule, consider moving your schedule around all that the Disney parks have to offer.
6. Not Wearing Comfortable Clothing
It’s easy to forget the level of physical activity a trip to Disney World can be. While the high heels or cute dresses may sound good for photos, keep in mind how they’ll feel after walking miles across the Magic Kingdom.
Ensure that your clothing is light, your gear is waterproof, and your shoes are comfortable before stepping foot into a park.
7. Not Bringing Snacks
Snack attacks can happen at any time, especially if you’re travelling with little ones. While the Walt Disney World theme parks have a variety of great snacks throughout the resort, having a few extra in your backpack could save you when stuck in a long line or waiting for a parade at the Magic Kingdom or fireworks at Hollywood Studios.
Having snacks in your bag will save you hunger-induced meltdowns, junk food grogginess, and – of course – save you a bit of money.
8. Not Bringing Weather Gear
Despite it’s nickname, the sunshine state is also prone to pop up storms. Keep an umbrella, poncho, or a rain jacket on hand to ensure you can stay mobile rain or shine.
Even if the weather is expected to be perfect, we still recommend bringing your poncho… Less for any potential storms and more to enjoy the many water parks throughout the Disney theme parks.
9. Renting A Car
While many may rent a car, it is oftentimes a waste of money if you are staying on property. With some of the most robust and unique public transportation around, there’s no need to rent a car when you could take a bus to and from almost anywhere.
Don’t forget to take Walt Disney World up on the monorail, gondola, or other more fun transportation styles, as well! Not only are they fun ways to get from point A to point B, but also efficient ways to bypass crowds or traffic.
10. Packing Your Itinerary
With all that there is to do at the Walt Disney World resort, one of the best things you can do is to simply relax. The most common mistake most make at Walt Disney World is not giving themselves or their families time to relax and enjoy their day at the Walt Disney theme parks.
Give yourself time to make memories without feeling rushed or stressed. In scheduling time for you and your family to wind down, you are preserving your energy, your happiness, and the memories of your Walt Disney World trip all around.
