Are you planning a family vacation to Walt Disney World and hoping and praying it is as magical as you imagine it will be?
We have good news for you! We have tips and tricks to help you have a perfect Disney vacation.
Be Flexible
First and foremost, let’s start by saying there is no such thing as a perfect Walt Disney World vacation. Or any vacation, for that matter. What can help make your family vacation perfect is your flexibility. Know, going into your trip, rides will break down, it will probably rain, and kids will meltdown. All of that is a normal part of a Disney vacation. And it is okay.
If you are flexible in your plans, it will allow everyone to enjoy those magical moments you didn’t even know were going to happen. Random magic happens throughout the Walt Disney World Resort, and you will miss it if you are too focused on everything being perfect.
Be ready to let your kids play at the playground even though you want to go swimming. Enjoy watching them sing and dance to the Disney Junior Dance Party for the fourth time. Take another spin on the Magic Carpets of Aladdin because they giggle joyfully, trying to get you wet when the camel spits.
These moments will make your vacation perfect, so don’t let them pass you by.
Have a Plan
With all that said, a perfect Walt Disney World vacation does have to include having a general plan. Head into your vacation with an overall idea of what you want to see and do each day. Knowing your top five experiences when walking into one of the four Disney Parks will help you navigate the day more successfully.
We don’t think you should have a minute-by-minute plan, but knowing which ride you are heading to first, where you tentatively want to eat, and when shows and parades happen will set you up for success. Make a general plan, so you are ready for each day.
Know My Disney Experience
A perfect vacation to Walt Disney World includes being educated on My Disney Experience and all it offers. This is Disney’s official app and how you will stay connected to everything during your Disney vacation.
First, take time at home to mess around with the app. See where essential features such as wait times, mobile ordering, and Disney Genie are located. Knowing these essential features before heading to Walt Disney World can make the app much easier to use throughout your vacation.
We have a variety of articles on My Disney Experience that can help you navigate it more accessible. Take time to look them over to familiarize yourself with the app.
Research
Having a perfect Disney vacation means taking time to research. A trip to Walt Disney World isn’t as easy as it used to be. You will want to learn about important details such as Disney Genie, Genie+, Individual Lightning Lanes, Park Reservations, dining, and more.
We have an easy trip planning guide HERE to help you get started. We also have many articles at How to Disney about planning and navigating the Parks. From traveling with toddlers to teens, we have tips and tricks. Take time to read them so when you show up, and you are well-versed in all things Disney.
Have a Food Plan
Nothing can ruin a magical day at Walt Disney World like people getting hangry. Make sure you have plans to keep everyone hydrated and fed throughout the day. Our first recommendation is going to be to bring in snacks with you. Although we love Disney snacks, it is nice to have some fruit snacks or crackers with you while waiting in line.
We also recommend bringing in your water. You can purchase water in the Parks; however, it is extremely expensive. Instead, we suggest bringing your refillable water bottle or even having bottled water delivered to your Disney Resort. These are both easy ways to help keep everyone happy.
When it comes to meal times, make sure you have a plan. Don’t wait until everyone is hungry to figure out where to go. Start planning early on for those quick service meals and place your mobile order ahead of time. This is a great way to avoid long lines and have your food ready when your family is used to having meals.
Preparing to get everyone fed is key to having a great day in the Disney Parks.
Take Breaks
Finally, a key to a perfect Walt Disney World vacation is breaks. We know you want to be in the Parks, experiencing all the magic and fun, but breaks are so important. Take time each day to step away from the Disney Parks and slow down.
Breaks can be done at your Disney Resort, where you can nap, swim, watch a movie, or enjoy the activities provided. They can also be done a nearby Resorts.
If you don’t care to head back to your Disney Resort, consider visiting one near the Park you are visiting. Ride the monorail around to see Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Take the Skyliner over Disney’s Riveria to see all the beautiful artwork. These are fun ways to still see the Disney magic without being in the hustle and bustle of Disney Parks.
Breaks are essential as they allow everyone to reset and refresh before enjoying an evening in the magic.
If you are a mom wanting to plan the perfect Disney vacation, make sure you give yourself some grace. No Disney trip is perfect. All you can do is head into the vacation prepared and willing to be flexible. We hope these tips will help you get started as you plan. Next, head to How to Disney for more planning tips and tricks.
