Any Disney World trip is exciting, but there’s a special magic to your first Disney World Trip!
However, it goes without saying that there’s a lot to do and plan when you’re headed to Disney World. So much so, that it can even be a little overwhelming once you get to Disney, and it’s time to put all that planning into action.
So with that in mind, this post is going to give you 8 things to keep in mind while you’re on you’re first Disney World Trip.
Give yourself plenty of time to get everywhere
Disney World is a massive property. To help guests get around, Disney has created the Disney Transportation System.
This makes it possible for you to get anywhere and everywhere on Disney Property without the use of a car or paid transportation.
I personally use the Disney transportation system exclusively, and I have never had any serious issues. The only time I’ve faced serious crowding is at the end of the night.
However, there can be breakdowns and delays. It also can just take time. So if you’ve got a dining reservation or you’re looking to be at the park when it opens, make it a point to give yourself more than enough time for travel.
You can learn more about the Disney World Transportation System in this post.
Don’t try to do everything
Again, Disney World is massive. Between the resorts, parks, water parks, Disney Springs, and other recreational activities, it’s pretty impossible to expect to get to everything in a single trip (unless it’s a really long trip).
This is true for inside the parks themselves.
With all the rides, shows, restaurants, activities, and options, trying to do it all isn’t very realistic. It may also lead to a tired, grouchy group of people, and a fair amount of disappointment when you can’t get it all in.
It’s a good idea to make a list of “must dos,” “want to dos,” and “will do if possible” rides and activities. This way you’re clear on what your priorities are from the start.
It’s also a good idea to plan some downtime and rest time so you can make the most of your time in the parks. No one is at their best when they’re overly tired.
It’s okay if things don’t go according to plan
Despite all your planning, there will likely be things that don’t go as you’ve planned.
Rides may break down last minute, someone in your group may get sick or need a nap, the weather may throw a wrench in your plans, etc.
You can still have an incredible trip if things don’t completely work out how you intended. And typically, the sooner you can make peace with a broken plan, the sooner you can get back enjoying the parts of your trip that are working out to the fullest.
So if something throws your trip off, take a moment to regroup, then try to move ahead with the next phase of fun!
Don’t forget to consider the weather
If you’ve never been to Florida, or never paid that much attention to the weather, it may be easy to assume it’s always hot and sunny.
However, this isn’t always the case. Florida is subject to a lot of pop up showers and downpours. The weather can also get a lot cooler at night during the spring and fall, and even be pretty cool (or cold) during the day in the winter time.
So, be sure to check the weather and make sure you’re bringing appropriate gear to the parks each day.
Set a budget and stick to it
Disney World can be expensive. And while you will likely pay for the bulk of your trip before you go, it’s still easy to run up the cost with souvenirs, food, and other extras.
Because of this, setting a budget while you’re on the trip is a good idea. There’s nothing worse that having a great trip and running up your spending, only to come home and find yourself very regretful.
If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you may know one of my favorite budgeting techniques is to buy Disney Gift Cards ahead of time in the amount of your budget. Then do everything you can to spend from the gift cards. This makes it a lot easier to set the money aside and really stick to what you’ve decided.
Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water
The hotter it is, the more important this is to keep in mind. However, it’s also important to remember even when it’s cooler.
No matter the temperature, Disney World is a lot of walking. You’ll likely be exerting yourself more than you’re used to. You’ll need hydration whether it’s extra hot out or not.
If you’re going to Disney World while mask policies are in place, it may be easier to forget to drink water because of the extra barrier. Make it a point to be mindful of your water intake so you can keep up with your park plans.
If anyone in your group isn’t feeling well, visit a First Aid Center
If you or someone in your group does happen to lose track of your water intake, eat something that doesn’t agree with you, or just find yourself feeling unwell, there are First Aid Centers in every park.
These centers are staffed with nurses and have basic over-the-counter remedies for more minor illnesses. However, if you require more care, they can help you get to the best people to help you.
You can find these Centers on the Parks maps and on the My Disney Experience Park maps.
When in doubt, ask a cast member
Disney calls all of their park employees cast members–whether they’re playing a character or not. This is because all park employees are there to play a role in the magic that’s created in the parks.
If you have a problem or a question of any kind, you should never hesitate to ask a cast member. They’re truly some of the best and most helpful employees I’ve ever encountered.
They may not be able to solve every problem, but if there’s anything they can do for you, they’ll do it.
For more Disney World tips and tricks, check out the other Disney World Posts!
Sound off: What else do you plan to keep in mind on your first Disney World trip? Tell us about it in the comments!