Tips from frequent Disney World visitors

If you could give one piece of advice to a person going to Disney World for the first time or someone who doesn’t go often, what would you tell them?

That’s the question that I asked to a number of people who visit Disney World on a regular basis – many multiple times per year.  Disney can be an overwhelming place to visit and a stressful plan to trip, but there are lots of way to make it easier!  I thought by asking this question I could get the top tips from people that have a lot of Disney experience – and then share them all with you!

Here’s what my Disney friends had to say:

“Make use of fastpass plus and try to plan a little in advance – that way it’s less stressful in the parks!” – Amy Connor

“Be patient and expect to spend more time than you’d think on transportation!” -Jessica Wells

“Don’t try to squeeze everything in! It’s impossible to do and see everything and if you try you’ll be disappointed and exhausted. Just go slow and enjoy every moment.”  – Amanda Laster

Look into going in off peak times. You’ll save a little money. And larger crowds during busier times may be a turn off for some.” – Amanda Laster

“If you’re on a budget, share your meals.” – Venessa Wright

“Take a break if you have kids. Don’t drag them around from open till close, they are going to be exhausted and you’re going to be miserable. I see it every time I go, parents yelling at their kids because they are acting up yet it never dawns on them to take them back to the resort for a nap.” – Sara O’Connor

“Make your dining reservations at 180 days. I have had so many friends on their first trips (with the dining plan even) that didn’t want to “tie themselves to a dining reservation” and assumed they could walk up to any restaurant and get a table.” – Kari Owston

“You won’t see it all unless you will be there for 2 solid weeks, so don’t even try. Plan and do your research. Don’t just go without some sort of idea what you want to do and how you will accomplish it.

I also suggest staying on site, at least for your first trip. If you stay off site, prepare for travel and parking fees.” – Morgan Williams

“Check out some of the areas that aren’t just the parks, like the monorail resort or the boardwalk. It’s a nice break during the busier times of the day, and you may find something and/or somewhere you never thought of checking out.” – Natalie Mego

“Character meals are the best way to do meet and greets.” – Emily Ivey-Cotton

“1) always stay on site. It’s not worth saving a little each night once you consider the free nonstop transportation (and magical express to/from the airport) and WDW is soooo much larger than most people realize!! 2) always arrive 30 min before opening do you can get through security and in line before rope drop. Always. You’ll get more done in the first few hours then the rest of the day. And when it gets crazy crowded, head back to the resort to swim, nap or chill before heading back in the evening.” – Amy Blasing

Disney can be overwhelming, but I’m happy to try and help you figure it all out!  If you’d like help planning your next Disney vacation at no extra cost to you, contact me at my travel agent email:  [email protected]

What’s the best advice you’ve heard for Disney?