Walt Disney World is always evolving, introducing new experiences and policies to enhance the guest experience.
As a result, some essential travel tips have emerged that we never expected to be so important.
These updated recommendations will help you maximize your magical Disney vacation, from packing the right essentials to navigating the parks efficiently.
Pack Smart for Your Disney Adventure
Stay Hydrated with Scheduled Water Breaks
With so much to see and do at Walt Disney World, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated.
Set reminders on your phone or smartwatch to take regular water breaks, ensuring everyone in your party stays refreshed.
Disney allows guests to bring refillable water bottles. Quick-service locations provide complimentary cups of ice water. Having a hydration plan can make all the difference, particularly in the Florida sun.
Lip Balm is a Must-Have
Between the heat, sun exposure, and air conditioning, dry lips are common at Walt Disney World.
Having lip balm handy will keep your lips moisturized and prevent discomfort. Consider attaching it to your bag’s exterior to avoid digging for it throughout the day.
Hand Sanitizer and Lotion
Clean hands are key while navigating the parks. Although Disney provides sanitizing stations, bringing your own hand sanitizer ensures you always have it when needed.
Frequent sanitizing can dry out your hands. Packing a small bottle of lotion will help keep your skin from cracking and feeling uncomfortable.
Many Disney resorts offer complimentary travel-sized lotions—toss one in your park bag!
Maximize Your Theme Park Experience
Reapply Sunscreen Regularly
Florida sunshine can be relentless, making sunscreen essential to your park day.
Many guests apply sunscreen in the morning but forget to reapply throughout the day. Remember to reapply every few hours, particularly during your scheduled water breaks.
Portable Chargers are a Lifesaver
With the My Disney Experience app playing a crucial role in planning your day, keeping your phone charged is more important than ever.
Whether using Mobile Order, checking wait times, or making Lightning Lane selections, your phone’s battery will drain quickly.
Bringing a portable charger and extra charging cables ensures you won’t be stuck with a dead phone.
Disney offers FuelRod kiosks for swapping portable chargers, but having your high-capacity charger is often the most convenient option.
Keep an Eye Out for Characters
Traditional character meet-and-greets have returned, allowing guests to interact closely with their favorite Disney icons.
From hugging Mickey Mouse to collecting autographs from beloved princesses, these experiences add extra magic to your visit.
Some characters still make surprise appearances throughout the parks. Winnie the Pooh catching butterflies in World Celebration or Pluto greeting guests at select resorts are just a few examples.
Be sure to keep your camera ready!
Additional Packing Essentials for a Hassle-Free Visit
Comfortable Footwear
Long park days mean lots of walking, so comfortable shoes are necessary.
Be sure to break in new shoes before your trip to avoid blisters.
Consider bringing extra socks in your park bag if your feet get wet from rain or water rides.
Cooling Towels & Fans
Florida’s heat can be intense, especially during the summer months.
Cooling towels and portable fans can provide instant relief and make your day more enjoyable.
Ponchos & Ziploc Bags
Rain showers are common, and a lightweight poncho can save the day.
Bringing resealable bags can protect your phone, wallet, and other valuables from water damage on wet rides or during sudden rainstorms.
Smart Tips for Dining and Park Navigation
Make Dining Reservations in Advance
Popular table-service restaurants fill up quickly, so making advance dining reservations is key.
Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel can book dining reservations up to 60 days in advance.
If you miss out on your preferred reservations, check back frequently for cancellations. Last-minute openings do happen.
Use Mobile Order for Quick-Service Dining
To save time, use Mobile Order through the My Disney Experience app.
Many quick-service locations allow you to order in advance, reducing wait times and allowing for a smoother dining experience.
Avoid Peak Dining Hours
Dining locations are busiest during standard meal times, typically from 12:00-2:00 PM for lunch and 5:00-7:00 PM for dinner.
Eating at off-peak hours can help you avoid long waits and crowded restaurants.
Take Advantage of Early Entry & Extended Evening Hours
If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, Early Entry allows you to enter the park 30 minutes before the official opening time.
Guests at Deluxe Disney Resorts also have access to Extended Evening Hours on select nights, providing additional time in the parks with fewer crowds.
Utilize Rider Switch for Attractions
If traveling with small children who can’t ride certain attractions, Rider Switch allows one adult to wait with the child while the rest of the party rides.
Once they finish, the waiting adult can ride without waiting in the standby line.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your Walt Disney World adventure. From staying hydrated to maximizing character interactions, every detail ensures a fun, stress-free vacation.
Have you tried any of these tips before? Which one do you think will make the biggest difference on your next trip?
What do I have to be able to use a wheelchair in the park? I can walk short distances but cannot stand for long periods. I’m 75 years old if that helps. Thanks for your time, Sherry