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6 Planning Mistakes We Make Each Disney Trip

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation can be exciting, but even seasoned Disney fans sometimes make mistakes that can impact their trip. These pitfalls are common but avoidable, from overlooking dining plans to underestimating travel time. Here are six planning mistakes we’ve made during our visits and how you can steer clear of them for a smoother, more magical experience.


6. Forgetting to Make Food Plans

Walt Disney World is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from gourmet table-service restaurants to quick-service delights. Yet, even with all the delectable options, it’s easy to overlook the importance of planning your meals in advance.

space 220- Disney
Credit: Disney
  • Table-Service Reservations: Popular spots like Topolino’s Terrace and Space 220 book up quickly, often 60 days in advance. Set a reminder to snag those reservations as soon as the window opens to secure your desired dining experiences.
  • Mobile Orders: For quick-service meals, use the My Disney Experience app to place your order. Placing your order early in the day ensures you won’t face long lines during peak meal times.
  • Avoid Last-Minute Decisions: Waiting until everyone is hungry to decide where to eat can lead to frustration. Have a plan to avoid hangry moments and make the most of your Disney dining experience.

5. Overcommitting to Dining Across the Parks

While it’s tempting to try as many Disney dining locations as possible, hopping between parks or resorts for meals can be time-consuming and stressful.

  • Stick to Your Area: Plan your meals around the park or resort you’ll be visiting that day. If you’re at Magic Kingdom, explore nearby options like The Crystal Palace or Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café rather than venturing to Disney Springs.
  • Enjoy Local Gems: Each park and resort offers unique dining options. Instead of crisscrossing Walt Disney World, explore the culinary delights nearby to simplify your schedule.

4. Underestimating Travel Time

One of the most common mistakes is underestimating the size of Walt Disney World and the time it takes to get around. Disney Transportation Bus

  • Account for Transportation: Whether using Disney buses, boats, or the monorail, transportation can take up to 90 minutes during busy times. Buses typically run every 20 minutes, so build that into your schedule.
  • Private Options: For quicker commutes, consider using a Minnie Van, Lyft, or Uber to save time and reduce stress.
  • Plan Extra Time: Give yourself a buffer to ensure you’re not rushing to dining reservations or Lightning Lane return times. A calm and prepared mindset can make a big difference.

3. Skipping Memory Maker

Disney’s Memory Maker is a must-have for preserving magical memories, yet it’s easy to dismiss this option when booking your trip.

  • Why It’s Worth It: For $169 when purchased in advance, Memory Maker grants access to all your on-ride photos and professional shots taken by Disney PhotoPass photographers. These photos capture unforgettable moments, including candid interactions with characters and family portraits in front of Cinderella Castle.
  • Pro Tip: Add Memory Maker to your package ahead of time so you can fully enjoy the photography services throughout your trip. Don’t miss out on capturing your family’s magical moments!

2. Overpacking Your Schedule

Walt Disney World is brimming with attractions, dining, and entertainment, making it tempting to cram every moment with activity. But overloading your schedule can lead to exhaustion and missed opportunities for spontaneous fun.

  • Focus on Must-Dos: Prioritize your top rides, shows, and dining experiences. Once those are checked off, everything else becomes a bonus.
  • Allow for Breaks: Build in time for relaxation, whether it’s lounging on the hub grass in Magic Kingdom or enjoying a midday snack. Slowing down can make your trip more enjoyable and less overwhelming.
  • Be Flexible: Leave room in your schedule for unexpected magic, like a surprise character encounter or an impromptu parade.

1. Not Taking Time to Enjoy Your Resort

Disney Resorts are more than just a place to sleep—they’re an integral part of the magic. Yet, many guests (including us) make the mistake of overlooking these enchanting destinations.

Credit: Disney
  • Plan Resort Time: Dedicate a day or afternoon to exploring your resort’s amenities. From themed pools to unique dining options, there’s so much to enjoy without ever leaving the property.
  • Embrace the Atmosphere: Resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or Disney’s Art of Animation Resort offer immersive theming and activities that can rival the parks themselves.
  • Recharge: Use your resort as a peaceful retreat to recharge before heading back into the action. A well-rested family is a happy family!

Final Thoughts

Every trip to Walt Disney World is a learning experience, and even seasoned Disney fans make mistakes. By planning ahead for meals, considering travel time, and embracing flexibility, you can avoid common pitfalls and focus on creating magical memories.

Remember to enjoy the journey, savor the little moments, and cherish your time at the happiest place on Earth.

What planning tips have made your Disney trips more magical? Share your advice in the comments below!

Jennifer Retzlaff

Jennifer became a lifelong Disney fan during her first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of her life. She quickly started to introduce her love of Disney to her family with a Disney honeymoon and then family trips when her youngest was 18 months old. She loves the magic that Disney brings to people through theme parks, cruises, and adventures. As a teacher, she tries to bring Disney magic into her classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” She is also part of the Magic Vacation Planner team as a personal travel advisor. With this team, she can now help others plan magical vacations. She loves bringing her love to Disney to readers with How to Disney.

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