What Tips Would You Give First Timers??

[Mickey02]

This December we are going to Disney with some friends that have never been before. Although we have been many times I am having a hard time remembering our first trip and the questions I had. Can anyone think of tips for me to send to my friends to help them prepare for their FIRST EVER DISNEY VACATION????

 

[addicted_to_WDW]

Buy really good walking shoes!

I think that the biggest surprise to most WDW visitors is how huge and spread out it is. I'd encourage newbies to do at least a little bit of research but not think that they can do it all. If they try they'll miss out on so much of the magic. Take things slow.

 

[Ricky's Girl]

Don't over do! Pace yourselves and enjoy each and every moment. An afternoon break really refreshes you for the evening fireworks. If the budget permits try experiencing a table service meal at the parks - it gives you a chance to re-group and refresh yourselves.

 

[Mickey02]

Thanks for the tips. I am compiling a list for them!

 

[mexican-mouseketeers]

Arrive at the parks at opening time, there is a huge diference in lines in the early morning than later.

 

[Dizneydaz]

I agree with the afternoon break. First timers can definitely get over tired at WDW. An afternoon break, with pool time if warm, is a welcome break. Ditto, sit-down meals. Ditto-comfy shoes, I wear Crocs now most of the time. Also, drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat-when it's hot Don't try to see everything, it's not possible. Since you've gone before, you could act like the tour guide and hit the highlights.

Hope this helps!

 

[Goofyluver]

Get a baggallini or a fanny pack. You don't want to be lugging your junk all over the park.

 

[wdwfamilyinIL]

have an extra pair of shoes in case one pair gets wet, we always take our own ponchos from home, don't forget the mousekeeper tips, gum if you chew it, extra set of batteries for the camera, cell phone charger, second the bagalinni(sp), wet ones, hand gel, cold medicine for adults and kids

Some of these are real common, but know of those who have forgotten them, and buying down there isn't cheap.

 

[surfgirl]

- Get there early - watch rope drop (its fun) and be ready to ride the rides right away.

- Don't overdo it. We all want to get the most 'value' for our vacation, but leaving early happy is much better than pushing it and melting down (yes, we adults melt down, too). Take afternoon breaks, take days off...

- There are still many 'non-park' activities (not all free) that can be taken advantage of. Go to AKL and watch them feed the animals and have dinner there... ride the monorails on your day off is there is a boy in the group.... walk the Boardwalk for ice cream as a budget saver.

- Don't eat every meal on Disney property. Will save you a ton of money! I find one meal out/day is plenty, so do something 'light' the other times. Breakfast is easy to eat 'on the run' while waiting for rope drop... and make lunch or dinner a lighter one so as to not tax the belly.

Most important: HAVE FUN!