Hiya Pals!
My family and I have been to Disney quite a few times. To most of my friends I am known as a Disney Pro. I certainly don’t claim to be, but I have learned a few tips and tricks over the years. And today I’m going to share some of my knowledge with you! Here are my Disney pro tips!
Pro Tip 1
Be Prepared
Being Prepared can help you on your way to being a Disney Pro! We carry a park bag that includes all the things we may need for the day including a few extra things.
Band-Aids are especially important!! Certainly, they can help with blisters when they pop up, but I cannot count how many times I’ve handed out band aids to others. Kids scrape knees as a result of running in excitement. Little mishaps may pop up so it’s great to have them on hand! Obviously, we pack Disney themed ones https://amzn.to/404dOwv.
Fans or cooling towels are also helpful. We use Frog Togs cooling towels and fans that wrap around your neck. Consequently, Disney days are usually long and hot so having these cooling options is a great idea. We look for something that will fit inside our park bag, and don’t forget an empty bag to put that towel in once it’s wet so it doesn’t sop onto everything.
Buy the fans we like here https://amzn.to/3XF3mtO and the Frogg Toggs towels here https://amzn.to/3JfGI73.
External batteries will extend the life or your phone battery during a long park day. Similarly, it can help you get the most out of your day since you won’t have to stop to charge your phone. Since you’ll need your phone for everything from pictures to Genie+ to checking wait times, you’ll use a lot of battery power. Make sure you pack an external battery and cords for your phone so you can charge on the go! Find one like we use here https://amzn.to/3XAQkxu
Pro Tip 2
Short cuts
There are a few short cuts that will help you navigate the parks easily. You can use these tips any time you need them.
Picking the shortest lines through security and ticket entrance can feel like line cutting! However, it is not!!! Always go to the shortest line, and if your line movement stalls out, feel free to move to another line! This goes for all security and ticket lines. You do not have to form into one long line unless told to do so. Use those shorter lines! You’ll look like a Disney Pro for sure!
In Magic Kingdom there are a few ways to get around that can be helpful especially if there’s a parade or something blocking your normal route. Utilize the side passages to navigate the park quickly and efficiently. If there’s a show at the castle and you need to get around the crowd be sure to cut across the back to avoid crowds of people. Comparatively, if there is a show on main street that you want to avoid you can duck into the shops since they connect together.
Pro Tip 3
Baby Care Locations & First Aid
It is important to know where to go if you need something. Baby Care locations are especially useful for families with little ones. You’ll find things such as places to nurse, diapers and wipes as well as baby essentials. Baby care locations can be found at each of the parks! First Aid locations are all located with the Baby Care Centers. Check out the maps below to find them in each of the theme parks.
Pro Tip 4
Navigating the parks
Once inside the parks there will be lots to see and do! We usually prepare with a general game plan. Know which rides you want to do for sure and if they’re popular plan on doing them early in the morning or late at night. As a matter of fact, we try not to double back on ourselves. Try picking a first ride and then try hitting all the rides near it. As a general rule of thumb, we try not to wait in lines that are over 30 minutes. You can try riding things during fireworks, parades or during non-peak times to reduce wait times.
Another key point is using My Disney Experience (MDE) to your advantage. If you need directions to a ride or restaurant, or any location for that matter you can search it on MDE and get directions to that location. It really is a handy tip that will make you feel like you’re a Disney Pro. Want to learn more about MDE, then check out our post here.
Pro Tip 5
Keeping your family happy
Albeit you might think this goes without saying, but I’ve seen my share of family meltdowns in the parks. Bringing a stroller for young kids is a great idea, even if they’ve long since given up stroller riding. My son is 7 and still requests a stroller from time to time. Maybe you have a child that dislikes loud noises, be sure to pack some headphones so they don’t get too overwhelmed. If you know you or a family member is prone to being hangry make sure to pack a few extra snacks. Above all, doing small things like this can make your family happy so you can enjoy your vacation.
Pro Tip 6
Budget time
Generally speaking, navigating your way around the parks and resorts takes time. More time than you might think. We usually plan to spend an hour to an hour and a half for character or sit-down meals. We allow for up to 45 minutes for a quick serve style meal. Likewise, transportation can take up to an hour to and from the parks. Allowing for this extra time can take the stress out of your planning.
Pro Tip 7
Follow us & use a Disney Travel Agent
Because we take frequent trips to Disney and are constantly learning something new, you should follow along with all of our adventures so you can learn more! You can find us on our other social media accounts!
Accordingly, we always plan with a Disney Travel Agent! You can use the same one we use: Erica!
