Random Tips for Attending “The Happiest Place on Earth”!

Growing up, I went to Walt Disney World at least 4 times a year. Back then, as long as you had on comfortable shoes, you did not need anything else. I also thought I knew “everything” I needed to about the parks. Those days are long gone since I became a parent. Being prepared is key to an enjoyable time with your family. You can read blogs, social media posts, and articles until you are blue in the face to prepare for your upcoming trip. However, I have found the most value in actual experiences that I and my friends have had. So without further ado, here are some of the most random tips for enjoying your Disney World Vacation!

1. Bring a rain poncho, but do not buy the cheap ones from Dollar tree like many suggest. Take it from me, you will still get soaked. 
2. Take snacks, snacks, and snacks. This is not an unusual tip however it bears being repeated. I pack multiple Ziploc bags to give each family member their own snack bag. 
3. Bring reusable water bottles. You can fill them up around the parks. 
4. Bring a waterproof backpack. Between it raining a lot in Florida and the water rides, chances are you will get wet. You want to be able to protect all of your items. 
5. It seems kind of random, but the kids need to run around. If you are at the Magic Kingdom, go to Tom Sawyer Island. It is amazing how much the kids can run around and explore. Bonus: they have picnic tables over there so you can stop for a snack or even your lunch!
6. At Epcot, there is a playground right in front of the Mouse of Ears. It is an awesome play area that is gated. 
7. Take ear plugs in case your little one’s ears are sensitive to the fireworks. Even if you do not plan to be there at night for the big fireworks show, they do have smaller shows throughout the day that involve fireworks. 
8. If you are going to be there for several days and have already seen the fireworks, use that time on another day to ride some of the popular rides. Wait times are often less during the fireworks time.
9. There is a Baby Care Center at all 4 parks that includes: Private nursing room with rocking chairs, changing room with tables and a unisex bathroom, feeding area with highchairs, kitchen with microwave, oven and sink, main room with television, table, chairs and sofa, on-site shop offering formula, baby food, juice, diapers, wipes, sunscreen, over-the-counter medications, and clothing for purchase. Oh yeah, and it is air conditioned! This place is amazing!
10. While in the Magic Kingdom, play a Pirates Adventure – an interactive game that helps you hunt for “treasure”. If you complete two of the different scavenger hunts, you get a special “treasure card” which has always equated to a fast pass for Pirates of Caribbean for us (so do not book one of your coveted fast passes for this ride, do this game instead).
11. If your tire on your stroller goes flat, take it to the stroller rental location on property. They will pump it up for you or help you patch it even if you did not rent it from there. As an addition, take a stroller even if you do not think you need one. If your child does not want to ride in it, it is a place for your bags. 
12. I have found major value in prepping your bag the night before. I usually stay up later than the rest of my family to set clothes out, make sure our backpack is packed full of essentials, and have our hotel room somewhat organized. The mornings of going to the parks are hectic. Everyone is excited to get going and of course, you do not want to waste time trying to get all of your things organized. 

The last tip is more in the form of words of advice while on your Walt Disney World vacation, try not to get too caught up and staying on a tight schedule. Likely someone will end up tired and unhappy. Allow for each family member to list their top 3 rides/shows they want to accomplish for that day. The rest of the day can fall in place. Remember, you want to enjoy the “Happiest Place on Earth”!