Disney ParksPlanningUpdates

This it NOT How You Want Experience Disney

Walt Disney World is a dream vacation destination for families and Disney fans. While it’s a place filled with magic, planning your trip the wrong way can lead to frustration. To help you avoid any pitfalls, we’re sharing people’s most common mistakes—and how to steer clear of them.

1. Don’t Forget to Set a Budget

A Walt Disney World vacation can add up quickly, so setting a realistic budget is essential. Think about everything you’ll need to account for—tickets, accommodations, dining, souvenirs, and even unexpected expenses.

Consider creating a budget for each family member, especially kids. Giving children their own gift cards or preloaded spending limits can help avoid overspending on souvenirs. You can purchase Disney gift cards ahead of time to stay within your financial plan while still indulging in some magic.

2. Don’t Wing It—Have a Plan

While spontaneity can be fun, walking into Walt Disney World without a plan is a recipe for stress. The parks are busy year-round, and maximizing your time requires preparation.

A little girl looking up at Spaceship Earth inside of EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort.
Credit: Disney

Before your trip, research the parks and decide on your must-do attractions, shows, and dining experiences. Using the My Disney Experience app, familiarize yourself with features like mobile ordering, wait times, and park maps. A solid plan will make your days more enjoyable and help you focus on creating magical memories.

3. Don’t Skip Research

Taking time to research Walt Disney World before you arrive can save you a lot of headaches. Learning the basics, like how the park layouts are organized or what to expect with transportation, can make navigating the parks much easier.

Understand Disney’s terminology and acronyms, such as Lightning Lane for ride reservations and Virtual Queues for select attractions. By knowing these in advance, you’ll spend less time figuring things out on the fly.

Pro tip: Watch ride-through videos online with your kids if you’re unsure which attractions might suit them. This can help reduce nerves and set expectations.

4. Don’t Force Nervous Kids

As tempting as it might be to coax your kids onto attractions they’re hesitant about, forcing them can backfire. While some kids warm up to rides once they experience them, others may end up scared for the rest of the day or the rest of the trip.

If your child is nervous, start small. Attractions like Dumbo the Flying Elephant or The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh are great introductions. Gradually work your way up to rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Haunted Mansion if they’re ready.

Remember, the goal is to have fun as a family. Let your child set the pace to ensure everyone enjoys the experience.

5. Don’t Abandon Your Routine

Walt Disney World can be overwhelming, and sticking to your family’s usual schedule can make the experience smoother. Trying to pack in every moment, from park opening to closing, can lead to exhaustion and cranky moods.

Build in breaks to recharge. Head back to your Disney Resort for naps or a swim, or find a quiet spot in the parks to rest. The same goes for meals—if your little ones are used to eating at certain times, plan accordingly. Use mobile ordering to secure food ahead of time and minimize wait times during peak hours.

A small child wearing a blue and white striped shirt and a character hat stands on a ride designed like a large gray elephant with big ears and a yellow and orange blanket. The circus-themed mural with a crowd is in the background, capturing the magic of Disney with Toddlers as the child raises their hands.
Credit: Disney

A well-paced day can make all the difference in keeping everyone happy.

6. Don’t Try to Do It All

Walt Disney World has four theme parks, two water parks, Disney Springs, and countless resorts. It’s impossible to do everything in one trip, and trying to cram it all in will only leave you exhausted.

Instead, focus on your top priorities. What are the must-see attractions, shows, or restaurants for your family? Hit those first, and treat anything else as a bonus. By setting realistic expectations, you’ll enjoy your time more and create special memories without feeling overwhelmed.

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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