Errors Committed by Travelers during Walt Disney World Adventures
Visiting Walt Disney World: A Guide to Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be an exciting experience, but it's essential to be prepared to avoid common mistakes that may disrupt your magical vacation. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Confirm Park Pass Availability
Walt Disney World requires theme park reservations in addition to tickets for entry. Confirm and book your park passes as early as possible because availability can sell out, and reservations open at set times, such as 7 AM Eastern on booking windows. Without a reservation, you cannot enter the park.
Download the My Disney Experience App
This app is essential to managing your trip. It allows you to check park pass availability, make Lightning Lane selections, mobile order food, view wait times, and navigate the parks. Install the latest version, link all your tickets and reservations, and add your entire travel party in the app before your trip.
Avoid Paying for Bottled Water
Florida's sun and heat require you to stay hydrated. To save money, bring your own refillable water bottles and use water refill stations around the parks for free clean water rather than purchasing bottled water.
Plan Ahead and Be Flexible
Packing the right gear and having a clear plan are crucial. Tina Chiu, the creator of A Magical Life For Me, recommends bringing or renting a stroller for children who still need a break from walking, as there is a lot of walking involved in Disney World. Chiu suggests being flexible with activities and taking downtime during a trip to avoid exhaustion and missing out on the 'magic' of the vacation.
Don't Overdo It
Avoid overstuffing your schedule without breaks, leading to exhaustion and meltdowns. Francine, the creator of Pixie Dust Fan, warns against taking advice from outdated sources and stresses the importance of getting advice from real experts when planning a family trip to Walt Disney World. She also suggests that having a plan is necessary but that a rigid itinerary can cause stress and prevent enjoying the 'magic' of the vacation.
Pack Appropriately
Packing the wrong shoes or not preparing for Florida’s hot and rainy weather can lead to discomfort. Chelsea Watson, creator of Styled By Magic, recommends carrying a 'Florida bag' containing rain gear and a rechargeable fan to avoid having to purchase ponchos or umbrellas during unexpected rainfall.
Make Reservations
Victoria Wade mentions that not making advance reservations for sit-down dining meals can lead to missed opportunities, especially for popular dining experiences like Cinderella's Royal Table or Be Our Guest. According to Wade, advance reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance, and it's recommended to continue checking for openings up to the days of the trip.
Enjoy the Magic
Michael, the creator of Michael Does Disney, recommends downloading the My Disney Experience app as it provides various services including checking in to hotels, booking dining, checking ride wait times, getting directions, and more. He also recommends booking a reservation at California Grill (Disney's Contemporary Resort) for a fireworks viewing during the Magic Kingdom show.
Capture the Moments
Michael also suggests purchasing Disney PhotoPass Memory Maker for unlimited downloads of professional photos taken in the parks and advises asking photographers for 'magic shots.'
By following these tips, you can ensure a smoother Walt Disney World vacation and focus on creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones. And remember, staying on Disney property can enhance your experience with the unique charm and amenities offered by the resorts.
- To maintain a balanced lifestyle during your Disney vacation, consider planning some home-and-garden activities in your hotel room to unwind after a day of exploring. For instance, you could bring a portable flower arrangement kit to decorate your room, or create a photo scrapbook of your magical vacation experiences.
- After the excitement of your Disney adventure, return to the reality of your home-and-garden lifestyle by sharing stories, photographs, and souvenirs from your travel with friends and family. This way, you can extend the joy of your trip and create lasting memories that enrich your everyday life.
