Are you considering a vacation to the “Happiest Place on Earth”? More often than not I hear clients state that they are overwhelmed with all the options and things to do when it comes to figuring out the ins and outs of a Walt Disney World vacation. As a travel advisor I understand how a Disney vacation can seem daunting to many, which is why I’m so very glad to help my clients have a magical vacation full of memories for years to come! Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is different for everyone, and can add up quickly. Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of your Walt Disney World vacation.

10. Park Pass Reservations

You’re going to Walt Disney World! Now what? Make sure you make park pass reservations or you might not get into the park you’re wishing to visit. This does mean you have to pre-select the parks you want to visit each day you plan of visiting a Disney theme park. Most times park pass reservations can be modified but always consult the park pass availability calendar before dropping your current park pass reservation. You can find the park pass availability calendar here.

10 Tips For Every Walt Disney World Vacation

9. Buy Your Souvenirs Early

Save time and money buy purchasing souvenirs before you arrive at Walt Disney World. Many children love the bubble wands and toys offered in the gift shops located at the end of attractions but variations of these can be purchased off of shopDisney, or even the dollar store. Consider purchasing ponchos and umbrellas before you arrive at Walt Disney World as this will save you several dollars.

8. Get Out And WALK!

Walt Disney World is HUGE! Most clients are surprised when I tell them expect to walk between 6 to 8 miles per day. Make sure you’re getting in your steps before you travel so that your ready when it’s time to go.

7. Take Advantage Of PhotoPass Photographers

PhotoPass photographers are located around each Walt Disney World theme park and are a great way to capture your time visiting the parks. Taking advantage of the Memory Maker photo package makes sure you receive all the digital photos you have taken around the parks. You can purchase Memory Maker for $169 before your vacation. If you wait until your trip the price increases to $199. This is a great option to make sure the whole family is included in the vacation photos. Plus take advantage of the cute Magic Shots that your children will love.

6. Food Allergies

If you or someone in traveling with you has food allergies, be sure to note this while making your dining reservations or ask for an allergy menu when on site. Disney is great about accommodating food allergies and making sure each guest feels comfortable. You can also check out allergy friendly menus online through the My Disney Experience app.

5. Visit Must Do Parks On A Weekday

When it comes to visiting the Walt Disney World theme parks weekends are typically busier days. Plan to do those must do attractions during the week and when the crowds arrive for the weekend enjoy a rest day swimming and relaxing at your resort.

4. Get The Lay Of The Land

I have said if before but I will say it again…Walt Disney World is HUGE! Disney is so much more than theme parks. If you’re staying onsite at a Disney resort hotel, I recommend you looking over the resort campus so that you know how to get to the closest form of transportation to the parks. You may even want to know where the closest area is to do laundry while at your resort. Making use of the Disney theme park maps is also a great way to know the best way to get to your top priority attractions and not get lost in the shuffle.

3. Don't Forget To Take Time To Rest

Be prepared to be “Disney tired” … This is a big and fun vacation but you will be walking more, spending the day in the Florida sunshine (aka: it’s hot), and then you will have to walk to your resort room while holding a sleeping child on your shoulder. Being “Disney tired” will happen so make sure you’re building in afternoon breaks, and possibly a rest day to enjoy your hotel. PS – your feet will thank you!

2. Take Advantage Of Single Rider Lines

Single Rider Lines are available for some of the rides at Walt Disney World. Utilize these to your advantage while in the theme parks. These lines are typically faster but you won’t necessarily be able to ride with your travel group. This is a great option with teenagers.

1. My Disney Experience And Genie Services

Make sure to equip yourself to start on the right foot when your visiting Walt Disney World. This starts by downloading the My Disney Experience app. You will use your phone a lot on this vacation. The My Disney Experience app will be used for reservations, tickets, in park navigation, mobile ordering, and more.

You will also want to familiarize yourself with Disney Genie located within your My Disney Experience app. Disney Genie is the new complimentary planning service that suggests ways to enjoy each park.

Disney Genie+ is a paid service that will give you access to Lightning Lanes for select attractions and costs $15 per day per person. Many rides are available through Genie+, however a handful of attractions have individual lightning lane+ passes which require a separate fee to access Lightning Lane for those rides.

These tips are a great start for any Walt Disney World vacation. However, the most important thing of all is the fun and magic you will experience on your vacation!

Do you have more questions about planning a Walt Disney World vacation? Our travel advisors at Royal Treatment Travel have many years of planning experience and tips to pass along to make your Disney vacation a truly magical experience. Click the Quote Request button below to start planning your magical vacation.

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