- Know When to Visit – Check the Disney website for dates of festivals and special events. Some can create higher than normal crowds. Whether you want to be sure to attend those events or to avoid them, be aware ahead of time. And check on line for crowd predictors. While not foolproof, they can be a good guide for which parks to avoid or attend on which days.
- Research Deals – At different times throughout the year Disney will promote Special Offers. See if you can work around the parameters in order to score a deal. If you’ve already booked, you can still apply those deals to your trip – you just have to contact Disney or your travel agent.
- Buy Park Tickets ASAP– As soon as you have confirmed your dates, check for ticket availability and park pass availability and secure your tickets. Sometimes, there will be better deals buying park tickets separtely from hotel reservations, and sometimes bundled together will offer the best deals. Do your research.
- Reserve Park Reservations – WDW still requires a park reservation for each ticket you’ve purchased. On some occasions those reservations do sell out, so secure them as soon as you can by checking here.
- Know Park Hours – Throughout the year Disney changes park hours. Be sure to know the hours on your dates and if they are offering Early and Extra Park Hours (for resort guests). This could also be a factor in determining which parks you should visit on which of your vacation dates.
- Make your Dining Plans Early – Most reservations sell out in the first few minutes of the reservation window. Mark your calendar for 60 days from your first scheduled day at WDW and at 6am secure those dining reservations. If you are staying on Disney property, you will be able to book dining reservations for your entire length of stay. Some dining reservations won’t be available even when you try right at 6am. Don’t give up – guests are constantly changing around plans and often when you check back a time slot will open up.
- Know if you Really Need Genie + – The new fast pass system Genie + is now a paid service. If you do your research, you can determine whether or not it is necessary. Often with early entry and making the right touring plan, you can make it through your day just fine without the extra expense. Other times it will be necessary as it may be the only way to ride certain rides or be able to have certain experiences.
- Rent strollers and ECVs ahead of time – These can be rented from different agencies in Orlando, and can be delivered right to your resort. If you plan to rent from the parks, be sure to arrive early as they do sell out.
- Familiarize Yourself with Disney World App – Before you even leave on vacation, be sure to practice using the My Disney Experience App. All of the necessary information for your trip will be in there. Wait times, where to find food, mobile ordering, your ticket information, your party information, maps, reservations and more.
- Practice the Process of Getting a Virtual Queue – If you have any interest in getting on those newest rides in WDW (Guardians of The Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in Epcot and Tron in Magic Kingdom) you need to know the process. Each day at 7am and 1pm you will have the chance to secure a spot, but you have to be quick. Most virtual spots are taken in a matter of seconds. Watch some YouTube videos about it and practice.
- Get a WDW Button – Make sure to swing by Guest Services when you enter any park and pick up a complimentary Disney pin commemorating your first visit, a special occasion, a birthday or any celebration! It’s a great keepsake…and it’s free!
- Mobile Order – If you’re not interested in standing in yet another line, many quick service dining locations are now offering mobile ordering as an option. Check the WDW app for all of your options, place an order, and you will be notified as soon as it is ready. Just walk right up to the designated location and pick up your food (you are charged using the payment method stored with your account when you place the order).
- Pack the right essentials – Make sure you have the right items packed in your park bag. Although many can be purchased in the parks, you will pay a premium. Be prepared and use my What to Pack in Your Disney Park Bag article as a guide.
- Take A Break – Disney can be overwhelming! If you can plan a non-park day in your itinerary, it can be a life saver. Between beautiful pools and grounds, and poolside activities, there is still so much to do at all the resorts these days, you can really rest and recharge and get your money’s worth from your resorts. Even taking a midday break from the parks and returning to the resort for a nap or swim can make a huge difference in everyone’s energy levels. There is still plenty of time to return in the evenings to catch more rides, entertainment and the fireworks displays.
- Do your homework/research – Planning for a Disney vacation is like none other. It takes a lot of time. If you’re not up for the challenge, consider using a Disney Vacation Planner. The best part of using a planner is it’s completely free of charge. And because they specialize in Disney vacations, travel agents are up to date on deals, tips and the newest experiences.