Disney World is a unique vacation destination because there is so much to know. However with a little planning, you will be prepared. Part of this is learning from others mistakes. Learn these 5 rookie mistakes to avoid on your next visit. Go from rookie to Pro!
1. Not Preparing For Florida Weather
Walt Disney World Resort is located in Florida, not planning for Florida weather is a huge mistake. First, Florida is hot most of the year, read Weather at a glance by month. However, certain times of the year a sweatshirt may be desired for the evening. Also, it rains most days in Florida (even if forecast is showing rain, it doesn’t mean rain all day), often it is a passing afternoon shower. Pack a poncho or umbrella and carry on with your day. Many guests will leave the park at the first sight of rain, this is another rookie mistake. Furthermore, for those traveling during hurricane season, trip insurance is smart. The peak of hurricane season is August through October.
2. Not Getting An Early Start
Nobody wants to go on a pricey vacation and have their first impression be crowds and long lines. However, if you start your day at Disney mid-day you risk running into this. Instead, head to the parks for rope-drop (park opening) and reap the benefits of lower crowds and minimal waits for the first hour or more. While some guests are just sitting down for breakfast, you could have already rode your favorite attraction and be in line for something else. Consider, packing items for a breakfast in your Resort room, to save money and time.
3. Not Using Mobile Ordering
Speaking of avoiding lines, Mobile Ordering is a convenient feature Disney rolled out that many guests forget to use. Mobile Ordering allows guests to pre-order and pre-pay for select Quick Service restaurants, and avoid waiting in line. Guests can order from anywhere on property, therefor order your breakfast, lunch or dinner while in line for an attraction! Making waiting time productive. The app will let you know when your food is ready, a separate pick up window is available for guests using Mobile Ordering. We are living in a digital age, learning how to utilize Mobile Ordering is a great time saver.
4. Not spending $5 Per Snack (Dining Plan)
Disney Dining Plans are an add-on addition for Resort guests allowing them to pre-pay for meals & snacks. Then guests can redeem their meal and snack credits as they please. However, if guests want to get the most value of the Dining Plans there are price points to reach. For snacks, guests will want to spend at least $5 per item. Furthermore, guests will want to spend a minimum of $16.79 for Quick Service and $46.20 for Table Service credits.
5. Not Setting A Realistic Souvenir Budget
Souvenirs can become a huge budget buster and planning for nothing is unrealistic. The reason is Disney does not make it easy to resist, with plentiful gift shops and merchandise that calls to you. Step off an attraction at Disney World and most often, you walk through a gift shop to exit. Therefore, set a realistic Souvenir Budget and avoid going over budget. Read, Budgeting For Souvenirs to get a realistic idea for a budget. Also, prior to your Disney trip consider visiting the Dollar Tree, or other Dollar Store to buy Tinkerbell Gifts. Tinkerbell Gifts are fun for children, and frugal for parents.
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.