Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Disney World visitor, there’s a lot to know before stepping into the most magical place on Earth.
Between long queues, unpredictable weather, and the sheer size of the parks, it’s important to be prepared to make the most of your trip. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to avoid common mistakes, save time and money, and have an unforgettable experience. The goal isn’t just to get through the parks, but to actually enjoy them without feeling overwhelmed. To accomplish that, you’ll need to know these things.
1. Disney World is huge, so plan your days wisely.
A lot of people don’t realise just how big Disney World is until they get there. It’s not just one park—it’s four massive theme parks, two water parks, dozens of resorts, and endless dining and entertainment options. If you try to see and do everything in one trip, you’ll burn out fast.
Instead, pick your must-do rides, shows, and restaurants ahead of time. Give yourself some flexibility, but go in with a loose plan so you’re not wandering around aimlessly. You’ll feel way more in control and make the most of your time.
2. The weather can be very unpredictable.
Florida weather is no joke. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s pouring rain. And if you’re visiting in the summer, prepare for heat and humidity that can make you question your life choices.
Pack a poncho, wear lightweight clothes, and drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you’re visiting in cooler months, bring layers—it can get surprisingly chilly in the evenings. A little weather prep goes a long way in keeping you comfortable.
3. Genie+ and Lightning Lanes are worth figuring out.
Disney replaced its old FastPass system with Genie+, a paid service that lets you skip the regular lines for certain attractions. There are also Individual Lightning Lanes for the most in-demand rides, but these cost extra per ride.
It’s a bit confusing at first, but taking time to understand how it works can save you hours of waiting. Some rides have two-hour wait times, so if skipping the line means you get to ride more and stress less, it’s definitely worth considering.
4. Rope drop is totally worth it.
“Rope drop” means arriving before the park officially opens, so you’re one of the first people inside. It might sound exhausting, but if you want to hit the most popular rides with little to no wait, it’s one of the best strategies.
The first two hours of the day are when the parks are the least crowded, so you can knock out a few big rides before the masses arrive. If you can handle waking up early, it’s a total game-changer.
5. Dining reservations book up ridiculously fast.
If you want to eat at Disney’s most popular restaurants, you need to book as soon as possible—reservations open 60 days before your trip and get snatched up fast. Spots like Cinderella’s Royal Table, Be Our Guest, and Space 220 can be fully booked within minutes.
If you miss out, don’t worry. Keep checking the app for last-minute cancellations, or try some of the underrated restaurants that still offer great food without the long wait.
6. Mobile ordering will save you time.
Instead of waiting in long food lines, use Disney’s mobile ordering feature. You can order your food through the My Disney Experience app and pick it up when it’s ready—no standing in line required.
This is a lifesaver during peak meal times when quick-service restaurants are packed. You’ll get your food faster and spend more time enjoying the parks rather than waiting for chicken nuggets.
7. Comfortable shoes are a must.
A Disney trip means a lot of walking. Expect to walk anywhere from 8 to 12 miles in a single day. If you wear uncomfortable shoes, you’ll regret it within a few hours. Skip the cute but impractical footwear and go for something supportive—your feet will thank you. Break in your shoes before your trip to avoid painful blisters, and bring blister pads just in case.
8. Bring a portable charger.
Between checking wait times, using Genie+, and snapping a million photos, your phone battery will drain fast. A portable charger is an absolute must unless you want to waste time hunting for a charging station. Disney does have FuelRod stations where you can swap for a fresh battery, but bringing your own charger ensures you’ll always have power when you need it.
9. Everything is expensive, but there are ways to save.
There’s no sugarcoating it—Disney is expensive. Between park tickets, food, and souvenirs, costs add up fast. But you can save money without missing out on the fun. Bring your own snacks, refill a water bottle instead of buying drinks, and set a souvenir budget ahead of time. If you’re staying off-property, look for hotels that offer free breakfast and shuttles to the parks to save even more.
10. The magic is in the little moments.
It’s easy to get caught up in checking off every ride and experience, but some of the best Disney moments happen when you slow down. Watching kids meet their favourite characters, stumbling upon a surprise parade, or just soaking in the atmosphere is part of the magic. Don’t stress about doing everything—focus on making memories. The best Disney trips aren’t the ones where you rush through the parks, but the ones where you truly enjoy the experience.
