10 Things to Know Before You Go to Disney
Whether you're someone who decides to go to Walt Disney World at a moment's notice or someone who plans their trip for years, there are a few things that everyone should know before stepping onto the property. Here are ten essential things to keep in mind before you go to Disney World.
1. There's Always Something New to Discover
Walt Disney World consistently offers new experiences, debuting exciting attractions, restaurants, and more. The reimagining of EPCOT is almost complete, making it an excellent destination to explore. Plan your visit in 2024 or 2025.
2. Establish Your Budget
Knowing your budget and how much you are willing to spend on various aspects of your trip, such as the resort, tickets, travel, Lightning Lane, dining, and souvenirs, is essential. It is important to be aware of hidden costs and consider tips and taxes when calculating your total expenses.
3. Choose the Right Disney Resort
To make the most of your Disney vacation, choosing the right resort to stay at is importantout of your Disney vacation. There are four categories of Disney Resorts: Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villas. While Value Resorts are the most affordable option, they may offer limited amenities. As you move up to Moderate and Deluxe options, the price per night and amenities increase accordingly. However, it is highly recommended to stay at a Disney Resort if possible, as the benefits and perks are definitely worth the cost.
4. You Can't Do It All
Take your time, and don't get overwhelmed by the countless options of parks, rides, restaurants, and activities. Instead, step back and choose your top 3 must-do's for each park. List these must-dos and prioritize them before considering the rest as an added bonus.
5. Deciding on the Dining Plan
The Disney Dining Plan allows you to bundle your resort room, ticket, and meals for an all-inclusive experience at Disney. However, it's important to carefully check the dining plan options, as more credits to ensure they fit your family. Sometimes, paying out of pocket is more cost-effective than purchasing the DDP. However, you may find the Dining Plan is perfect for your family.
6. Download the App
Before heading to Walt Disney World, we highly recommend downloading the My Disney Experience App, if you haven't done so already. This app can be used as a park map, help you plan with Disney Genie, make Lightning Lane selections, book dining reservations, show you the locations and schedules of characters, allow you to order food at specific locations, and even grant access to your resort room.
7. Understand Advance Dining Reservations
One common mistake many visitors make before going to Walt Disney World is forgetting to make dining reservations for table service restaurants. To avoid any disappointment, it's recommended that guests make dining reservations 60 days before their visit. If you are staying at a Disney Resort, you can book up to 10 days of your vacation. Remember that popular restaurants like Space 220, Be Our Guest, and Cinderella's Royal Table fill up quickly, so it's best to make your reservations as early as possible if you have a particular restaurant in mind.
8. Know Height Requirements
Measure your child's height before you head to Disney. Your child's height will help you decide which attractions to ride and secure Lightning Lane selections. You can find the height requirements for each ride on the Disney website, so make sure to check those out before your visit. If your child cannot ride due to height restrictions, you can always ask a Cast Member at the attraction for a Rider Switch. Rider Switch allows an adult to wait with the child while others ride the attraction. Once they finish, the waiting party member can ride the attraction without waiting in the regular line.
9. Prepare for the Weather
If you plan a trip to Disney World in Florida, you'll likely experience a mix of sunny and rainy weather, which is typical of the region. However, there are certain times of the year when the weather can be colder, hurricane season is prevalent, or there may be extreme heat waves. It's best to check the weather in advance and pack accordingly. We recommend packing a light jacket, a bathing suit, flip-flops, ponchos, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
10. Research Disney World
Navigating a massive place like Walt Disney World can be daunting, and getting lost is one of the worst feelings. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the park's layout, dining options, and popular attractions, and learn how to use the My Disney Experience App.
A Disney travel agent can answer most of your questions about your trip, but you will still need to navigate some things on your own. They are there to guide you and provide information, but some things only you can do.
For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact Jessica at jessicalieb.etfamilytravel@gmail.com
