Planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation is undoubtedly exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. With so many details to juggle, it’s easy to make a misstep that could impact your entire trip.
To help you make the most of your magical vacation, we’ve outlined five common mistakes Disney Park guests make—and how to avoid them. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning Disney Parks fan, these tips will help ensure a smoother, more memorable experience.
1. Skipping the Planning Phase
While spontaneity has perks, Walt Disney World Resort isn’t the best place to “wing it.” Planning ahead is essential to avoid long lines, missed dining reservations, and limited availability at popular attractions.
Avoid this mistake by:
- Booking your Disney Resort hotel early to secure your preferred location and dates.
- Making advanced dining reservations for popular spots like Cinderella’s Royal Table and ‘Ohana.
- Creating a rough itinerary for each day, including which theme park you’ll visit and any must-do experiences.
- Understanding how the Lightning Lane system works before your trip.
2. Ignoring the Importance of Park Reservations
While most ticket types no longer require Park Pass reservations, Annual Passholders and certain special-event guests may still need to book in advance.
It’s important to check your ticket type and confirm whether reservations are necessary.
What to do:
- Reserve your park days as soon as your tickets are linked to your My Disney Experience account (if needed).
- Check the availability calendar frequently, especially if your plans change.
- Choose parks based on expected crowd levels and your personal priorities.
3. Not Learning How to Use Lightning Lane
Gone are the days of free FastPass+. Disney now uses the paid Lightning Lane system, which allows guests to bypass standby lines for select attractions.
But there’s a learning curve.
Avoid frustration by:
- Purchasing Lightning Lane access via the My Disney Experience app.
- Understanding the difference between Lightning Lane Single Pass attraction selections and standard Lightning Lane Multi Pass offerings.
- Prioritizing high-demand rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and TRON Lightcycle / Run.
4. Underestimating the Size and Complexity of Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World Resort is massive, covering over 25,000 acres with four theme parks, two water parks, dozens of Disney Resort hotels, and hundreds of dining options. If you’re unprepared, it’s easy to lose valuable time just getting around.
Plan smarter by:
- Staying at a Disney Resort hotel to take advantage of complimentary transportation and Early Entry to Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
- Building time for travel between theme parks, accommodations, and dining locations.
- Downloading the My Disney Experience app for real-time updates, directions, and wait times.
5. Overpacking Your Daily Itinerary
It’s tempting to do it all, but a packed schedule can lead to exhaustion and cranky family members.
Disney days can be long and tiring, especially for young kids.
Try this instead:
- Prioritize your top attractions and experiences for each day.
- Schedule downtime in the afternoon for pool breaks, naps, air-conditioned shows, or a leisurely lunch.
- Remember that the most magical moments often happen during unscheduled times.
Maximize the Magic
Planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation may seem like a lot of work. But with a bit of forethought and flexibility, your trip can be both relaxing and unforgettable.
By steering clear of these common pitfalls and embracing the tools Disney provides, you’ll be well on your way to a magical and memorable adventure with your family.
What do you think is the biggest mistake first-time Disney Park guests make? Share your opinion with Disney Dining in the comments!
