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Writer's pictureNick Burgess

10 Essential Tips I Wish I Knew Before Going to Disney World

Dreaming about a trip to Disney World is something many people share, from children to adults alike. The magic of seeing beloved characters and experiencing thrilling rides is unforgettable, but planning this adventure can be quite challenging, especially after the numerous changes Disney made this year for the benefit of the shareholders!


After my recent visit, I wanted to share valuable insights that can help make your experience smoother and more memorable.

cinderella's castle at walt disney world

So grab a snack, sit back, and I’ll guide you through ten essential tips that will help you navigate your Disney adventure like a seasoned visitor!


1. Plan Your Visit During Off-Peak Seasons


Choosing when to visit Disney World is crucial to your experience. The park can feel overwhelming during peak seasons—think summer breaks, holidays, or school vacations. Instead, consider visiting during off-peak times. For example, mid-January through mid-February and late September through mid-November are much quieter periods.



Visiting during these times can reduce wait times by up to 30%. This means you’ll spend less time in lines and more time having fun!


2. Make Reservations Early


Dining at popular restaurants can be a highlight of your trip, but it requires early planning. Restaurants like Cinderella's Royal Table and Be Our Guest fill up fast, particularly during busy seasons.


During my trip, I missed out on a character breakfast because I didn’t book early enough! Reservations can be made 60 days ahead of your visit. Make a note to set a reminder so you don’t miss out on those unique dining experiences.



3. Download the My Disney Experience App


In today’s tech-savvy world, having the My Disney Experience app on your phone is essential. This app lets you check wait times, book FastPasses, modify dining reservations, and even order food for quicker pick-up.


During my visit, using the app helped me cut down wait times by 40%. Plus, familiarize yourself with the park maps to help you find rides, dining spots, and rest areas effortlessly.


4. Utilize Lightning Lane


The Lightning Lane program can significantly enhance your park experience. For a fee—around $15-$35 per day depending on surge pricing, plus more fees per ride for the Individual Lightning Lanes—you can skip the regular lines for select attractions.


Initially, I hesitated to purchase this service due to the vast sums I've already poured into my Disney vacation. However, once I was able to enjoy rides like Space Mountain and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train without long waits, I realized it was worth the investment. Many users (including myself!) reported saving up to two to three hours in line on popular rides with this service!


5. Stay On-Site for Extra Magic Hours


Staying at a Disney resort offers perks, including Extra Magic Hours. Early entry to the parks or late stays is a fantastic way to enjoy attractions with fewer guests.



On my trip, these extra hours allowed me to ride popular attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean without the usual crowds. Plus, staying on-site makes transportation to the park quick and simple.


6. Pack Smart – Bring the Essentials


Packing smartly can significantly enhance your comfort during long park days. I learned the hard way about carrying too much. Focus on bringing essential items only.


Essentials include sunscreen (especially in Florida’s sun), a reusable water bottle for staying hydrated, and a portable phone charger to keep your devices powered. A small backpack or fanny pack can help keep these items organized without weighing you down.


7. Know the Importance of Hydration and Snacks


Long days at Disney can be tiring, making hydration and snacks critical. I often filled my reusable water bottle at water fountains throughout the park.



Bringing snacks like granola bars or trail mix can also save you money—prices inside the park can be up to 30% higher than at local stores. Having snacks handy keeps your energy up while waiting in line.


8. Make a Rough Itinerary but Be Flexible


While planning your days, having a rough itinerary is beneficial. I tend to be very organized, but I learned that flexibility is key.


Things can change—rides might close unexpectedly, or you could stumble upon a new character meet-and-greet. A flexible plan lets you enjoy spontaneous moments while still hitting your must-see attractions.


9. Experience the Parades and Nighttime Shows


Disney parades and nighttime shows are not to be missed! At first, I thought I could skip them to ride more attractions. But experiencing the afternoon parade filled with iconic characters transformed my perspective.


Make sure to find a good viewing location at least 30 minutes in advance. These shows often capture the essence of Disney magic, and having your camera ready allows you to capture lasting memories.


10. Don’t Forget to Embrace the Magic!


Finally, always take a moment to soak in the magic of Disney. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to enjoy the little things.


Whether it’s gazing at Cinderella’s Castle, joining a spontaneous dance party, or trying on goofy hats, these small moments often create the strongest memories.


Looking back on my trip to Disney World, I’m grateful for the lessons I learned and shared experiences with family and friends. With these ten essential tips, you can fully embrace everything the parks offer.

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