No matter how many times we visit Walt Disney World, there are certain planning mistakes we seem to make repeatedly. From over-scheduling to underestimating the size of the resort, it’s easy to fall into these traps. To help you have a smoother, more enjoyable vacation, we’re sharing some common planning pitfalls and how to avoid them on your trip.
Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is exciting but can also be overwhelming. Even with meticulous research and organization, mistakes can still happen. Our goal is to highlight some of the most common planning errors guests make, so you can plan accordingly and have a magical experience.
1. Overplanning Your Days
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of all the things you “must do” at Walt Disney World, but trying to fit everything in will leave you feeling rushed and exhausted. With four theme parks, countless attractions, dining experiences, and entertainment options, it’s impossible to see and do everything in one trip—no matter how long your vacation is.
Rather than overloading your schedule, focus on 3-5 key experiences each day. Prioritize those and allow room for spontaneity. By breaking your day into manageable chunks—morning, afternoon, and evening—you’ll find yourself less stressed and more able to enjoy the magical moments that pop up unexpectedly.
Having a loose plan, rather than a minute-by-minute itinerary, allows you to enjoy the magic without feeling like you’re running from one attraction to the next. This will help you soak in the Disney experience and make room for those surprise encounters or unplanned activities that can often become the highlight of your trip.
2. Not Enjoying Your Disney Resort
A Walt Disney World Resort isn’t just a place to rest your head after a long day in the parks—it’s part of the Disney magic itself! Many guests overlook the amazing amenities, pools, and activities available at their Disney Resort, missing out on some incredible experiences.
Most Disney Resorts feature fantastic pools with activities like trivia games, water volleyball, and even poolside dance parties. Additionally, many resorts offer scavenger hunts, crafts, and outdoor movies under the stars, making them a great spot for relaxation and entertainment.
To make the most of your Disney Resort, schedule some downtime to enjoy the amenities. Whether it’s an afternoon swim or a full resort day, be sure to take advantage of the unique experiences your resort offers. This will give you a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks and add another layer of fun to your vacation.
3. Not Planning Your Meals in Advance
Dining at Walt Disney World is a major part of the experience, and if you’re hoping to enjoy some of the most popular table-service restaurants, planning ahead is crucial. Guests can start making advanced dining reservations up to 60 days before their trip, and many of the top spots—like Cinderella’s Royal Table or Be Our Guest—book up fast.
To avoid disappointment, mark your calendar and make reservations as soon as they become available. Disney’s dining system allows you to book for your entire stay, starting 60 days from your check-in date, giving you the best chance to secure those coveted dining spots.
Even if you’re opting for quick-service meals, it’s important to have a plan. The My Disney Experience app offers mobile ordering, allowing you to order food in advance and skip the long lines. This can be a huge time-saver, especially during peak dining hours.
4. Booking Reservations Without Considering Location
One common mistake guests make is booking dining or experiences without considering their location within Walt Disney World. The resort is massive, and getting from one place to another can take longer than you might think. If your dining reservation is far from the park you’re visiting that day, you could spend unnecessary time in transit.
A smarter strategy is to plan your meals around your park days. For example, if you’re spending the day at EPCOT, consider booking a meal at one of the nearby resort restaurants, like Beaches & Cream at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. If you’re visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a reservation at Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge would make sense.
By aligning your dining reservations with your park schedule, you’ll save time and avoid the frustration of long travel times between experiences.
5. Underestimating Transportation Time
Walt Disney World offers complimentary transportation options, including buses, monorails, and boats. While convenient, these modes of transportation aren’t always the fastest way to get around. Many guests don’t realize they need to allow extra time for transportation, particularly when traveling between resorts or parks.
As a rule of thumb, allow at least 60 minutes to get from one location to another within Walt Disney World. Even if the distance seems short, factors like bus wait times, loading, and unloading can extend your travel time.
If you’re in a rush or need to get somewhere quickly, consider using rideshare services like Uber, Lyft, or Disney’s own Minnie Vans. These services offer more direct routes and can save you valuable time, especially if you’re traveling between resorts after a nighttime show or trying to make it to a dining reservation on time.
Conclusion
Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is no small task, but avoiding these common mistakes can make your trip much more enjoyable. Remember to avoid overloading your schedule, take time to relax at your Disney Resort, and plan your meals and transportation wisely. By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to make the most of your magical vacation.
Even seasoned Disney travelers fall into these traps, but now you have the strategies to avoid them. We hope these tips help you have a stress-free, magical experience on your next Walt Disney World trip!
