Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be overwhelming. With so many suggestions from blogs, coworkers, and friends, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in information. But don’t worry! At How to Disney, we’ve narrowed it down to the 10 most essential tips to help make your trip as magical as possible, PLUS an 11th bonus tip.
These tips will ensure you have the best experience from start to finish.
1. Download the My Disney Experience App
Before your trip, download the My Disney Experience app – the official app for Walt Disney World. This app is essential for staying connected throughout your vacation and provides access to helpful information.
You can find park hours and attraction wait times to learn when attractions are open and check current wait times to plan your day. You can also make, modify, and cancel dining reservations on the go.
For dining, mobile ordering lets you skip the lines at quick-service locations. The updated Lightning Lane Multi Pass allows you to reserve spots on popular rides.
Tip: Take some time before your trip to explore the app’s features so you can make the most of it during your visit.
2. Bring a Portable Charger
You’ll rely on your phone for everything—from using My Disney Experience app to taking pictures, ordering food, and even accessing virtual queues. Bring a portable charger to ensure your phone stays charged.
While there are FuelRod stations throughout the parks, bringing your charger from home will save time and money.
Tip: Invest in a high-quality portable charger with multiple charging ports so your family can stay connected, too!
3. Prepare for Rain
Florida weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain showers anytime. Even in the Magic Kingdom, rain happens, and you don’t want to be caught off guard.
What You Should Pack:
- Ponchos & Umbrellas: These are lightweight and easy to carry in your bag.
- Waterproof Shoes: These will dry your feet if you walk in the rain.
Tip: Some of the best park experiences are still enjoyable during a rainstorm, so embrace the weather and keep exploring!
4. Pack for The Season
Orlando’s weather can become very hot during the spring months, but don’t assume that is always the case – check the weather before your trip. Temperatures can fluctuate and be cold on some nights. Be prepared to layer up to stay comfortable if you happen to visit on one of those cooler nights.
What to Pack:
- Light Jacket or Sweater: The air conditioning in buses, shops, and restaurants can get chilly, so it’s great to have something to throw on.
- Comfortable Clothing: Make sure your clothes are breathable and suitable for walking all day.
- Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the Florida sun.
Tip: Wearing layers will make your day more enjoyable without requiring you to return to your hotel room to change.
5. Wear Comfortable Shoes
Walt Disney World is enormous, and you’ll walk miles daily. Comfortable shoes are a must. A long day at the park can quickly turn miserable without the proper footwear.
Shoe Tips:
- Break Them In: Wear your shoes weeks before your trip to avoid blisters.
- Bring Two Pairs: Switching between shoes can help prevent discomfort, especially if one pair gets wet.
Tip: Opt for breathable, supportive sneakers or sandals designed for long periods of walking.
6. Understand Lightning Lane
Lightning Lane Multi Pass is a paid feature that lets you bypass the standby lines at select attractions. Understanding how it works before your trip is essential to determine if it’s worth the investment.
How Lightning Lane Works:
- Access Popular Attractions: Skip the regular lines at rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Space Mountain.
- Price & Availability: Lightning Lane pricing varies by day, park, and attraction, so check in advance.
Tip: If you’re planning to visit Magic Kingdom, we recommend Lightning Lane. However, with a solid touring plan, it can be skipped at parks like Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
7. Use Mobile Ordering for Meals
Mobile ordering is your best friend if you plan to eat at quick-service restaurants. Instead of waiting in long lines, place your order directly through the My Disney Experience app.
Why It’s Great:
- To avoid Long Lines, Choose a time window, and your food will be ready for pickup when you arrive.
- Customize Orders: You can customize your meal, including special dietary requests.
Tip: Mobile ordering can save you time and ensure you don’t miss out on meal times, especially during peak hours.
8. Take Advantage of Disney’s Walk-Up Waitlists
Many of Disney’s sit-down restaurants now offer a walk-up waitlist option. If you didn’t make a reservation beforehand, this is a fantastic way to snag a table.
How to Get on the List:
- Arrive Early: Head to the restaurant when it opens to have the best chance of securing a table.
- Be Flexible: Some restaurants may have availability for a walk-up waitlist, while others might not, depending on the time of day.
Tip: Try using this feature for popular dining spots like Be Our Guest or The Plaza Restaurant.
9. Use Mobile Checkout for Souvenirs
Shopping at Walt Disney World can be part of the fun, but the lines can sometimes be lengthy. Instead of waiting at the register, use mobile checkout through the My Disney Experience app.
Benefits:
- Skip the Line: Once you’ve purchased, simply check out through the app.
- Quick Pick-Up: Stop by a cast member to pick up your items and go on your way!
Tip: Mobile checkout works at larger stores like the Emporium at Magic Kingdom or Creations Shop at EPCOT.
Tip: It’s especially helpful when you’re with little ones and need a quick pit stop.
10. Embrace the Nighttime Shows
Walt Disney World’s nighttime shows are some of the most spectacular experiences in the parks. Don’t miss out on Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom or Luminous: The Symphony of Us at EPCOT.
Why You Should Stay:
- Happily Ever After: This enchanting show combines fireworks, projections, and music that bring Disney stories to life.
- Luminous: The Symphony of Us: A new nighttime spectacular that combines music, fireworks, and stunning visuals at EPCOT.
Tip: Find a good viewing spot early, and enjoy the show with your family!
11. Make Memories and Have Fun!
The most important tip is to enjoy the magic of Walt Disney World! Make memories with your family, take plenty of photos, and embrace the joy of being in the most magical place on Earth.
Final Tip: Don’t stress about seeing everything. Relax, soak it all in, and enjoy the moments with your loved ones.
Focusing on these essential tips will prepare you for a magical time at Walt Disney World. Happy travels!
