Your top 10 tips for planning a trip?

[xraydave]

I might not make ten but here I go:

1. Take a break in the middle of the day!!!!
2. Get there early. (whichever park you're going to)
3. Look around and enjoy the "little things" Disney has to offer.
4. Stay on sight.
5. Take a break in the middle of the day. Don't just plan it, DO it.
6. Try at least one character meal. Kids or not
7. Hydrate. Lot's of water.
8. Research, research research... You'll enjoy more.. see #3
9. Don't be afraid to be nice to a stranger it will brighten everyone's day.
10 Take a break in the middle of the day. (See a pattern here)

I made it! Have fun.

 

[nbandfour]

For "Take no Prisoners" types like me:

1. Maximize your fastpass use.

2. Make mornings as efficient as possible: lay out clothes the night before, eat breakfast in the room, head to the parks to be there at least 1/2 hour before opening.

3. Don't take a midday break at the resort; instead have a sitdown meal at midday, followed by some low key shows.

4. Fantasmic Package

5. Don't sweat the parades -now don't jump all over me here, I think they are GREAT, but my kids ALWAYS have a hard time viewing unless we stake out a place an hour early- and that's too much time to spend waiting. Plus, you can do alot when other people are watching the parade. (Night time parades are easier to see, I think, so more worth watching if you don't have a good seat.)

6. Have each child (and adult) wear a fanny pack with their allotted cash, tissues, chapstick, water bottle, etc. Include card inside with parents' info.

7. Bring your cellphone AND CHARGER.

8. Triple check all camera supplies and bring extra batteries and memory (or you will end up with Kodak disposables for your once in a lifetime family RV trip to the Grand Canyon- but I digress).

9. Don't waste time, increase stress, and induce tears by pushing kids to do rides they are afraid of- Use the kid swap, then the others get to ride 2X!!

10. READ READ READ these boards and the guides, ask questions, to maximize your knowledge of the things that are most important for your familyl.

NB

 

[WaltD4Me]

I love these kind of things!

1. Start gathering your information EARLY...a week, or even a month
is not enough time to plan a Disney vacation. I'd say to start planning
at least 3 months in advance, especially if you have never been to
Disney or haven't been in a long time.

2. Find a good Disney site (like this one!) and check out what the
man on the street is saying...I NEVER would have known about
Turtle Talk with Crush at Epcot if hadn't been for this message
board!

3. Have a GENERAL plan...I don't believe in planning every second
of your trip, but you at least need an idea of where you will be
going and what you will be doing each day. If we didn't have our
plan we would have wasted alot of time deciding where to go and
what to do all the time.

4. Skip Mears and look into getting a car service (if you aren't driving
yourself.) One of the best tips I got from this board was about
car services. We had a great company and the grocery stop made
of world of difference to us.

5. Stay on site OR if you can't manage that, at least stay at one of
the hotels near DTD (Like the Hilton or Wyndham)...the CLOSER to
Disney the better!

6. Take into account how BIG Disney is and realize you can't/won't
get to see everything. (You can't do MK in one day, plan for
at least two days there.)

7. Definitely do a character meal!!!! - At least one. We did five!

8. Don't rush...if you are exhausted you can't enjoy it as much!

9. Sign up to receive newsletters on every Disney site you can,
I got a TON of great information and some really good dearls
from those newsletters!

10. Go to Disney with the mindset of a child. Disney is truly a
magical place if you let it be.


Lisa

 

[Jillpie]

A couple of months in advance, start your list. The list includes every single thing you use every day, from toothbrush to sunscreen. If you think of each detail early, you'll get to DW not forgetting a thing. As you pack each item, cross it off the list. Works every single trip perfectly, haven't forgotten a thing yet.

If you budget, I do the envelope thing too! I can't tell you how awesome it is to have each day's money ready to go, right down to the last day. Never run out of funds this way. I will add to this tip. Have an envelope ready for the towncar, one for tips, kennel for the dog day before trip, you get the idea. It is an unbelievable great organizational tool if you love to budget, down to each and every day. For this coming trip in April, I did my envelopes (with travelers checks, and some cash) last week. I had 22 envelopes total! But now I"m all set. Its a great feeling.

Use the early entry perk for MK. Get ready the night before, packing the backpack with snacks, camera ready to go etc. And get up early and be on the bus by 7:15. It is so worth it to ride the rides with no crowds.

Have a ball planning!

 

[WDWprincessloyola]

HHhmmmm...trying to think

1) Plan ahead, months in advance for some things, and then WRITE IT DOWN, keep a journal or something of airplane/car/train schedules, what park what day, free days, etc....if you write it down you can always refer back to it and change things
2) Make a list of things you need to bring with you like medications, extra contacts/glasses, etc (I am all about making lists)
3) Know what rides, parades, and shows you want to see so you are not walking back and forth all over the park trying to see everything you want.
4) If you can spend two days in each park, do it, that way you can split up what you want to see, revisit favorites, and take your time.
5) For the people in the party who are mature enough, share information as to where the tickets are and who has them, each have a fanny pack/ backpack, each have a map, don't let one person keep track of EVERYTHING, if at least two or three people try to know everything, chances are someone will remember something.
6) Bring backups for camera, cell phones, anything, you never know when you might need it.
7) Take a day off in the middle of the vacation, time to sleep in and give your feet a rest.
8) If you are visting a park or a store more than one time, hold off on buying on impulse. What looks great one day might not look as great the second time around, that way you can spend your money on what you really want.
9) Don't assume anything...ASK! Look at a map, see the Disney web pages, ask the knowledgeable looking person with the Disney binder, ask a cast member, it never hurts to ask.
10) Have fun and enjoy yourself, don't let other people, your party, the weather, the lines, the crying children, the ride malfunctions, whatever ruin your day, there will be something there to brighten the mood. That's why you are at dinner right?

 

[lsutigger2]

Some of these are repeats but they would be on my list:
Relax and enjoy the sights. There is too much to see to rush by everything.
Do a backstage tour if able to do so (ie, ages of children, interest, etc) Have done both at AK and they were wonderful
Do at least one "special" thing - character meal, water park, special show, etc
Collect something - autographs, pressed coins, pics of (name your favorite thing), pins, etc
Take someone elses pics for them, so they can be in the pic also
Stay on site - makes a difference in the experience
Have patience with others
If you have young children in the group, remember their needs and wants.
Have a Dole Whip at MK - they are the best!
Take lots of pics, even unusual stuff. Makes those memories last!

 

[uva185]

In no particular order...

1. Stay on-site.
2. Book room in advance so you can get the room / view you really want
3. Book the airfare in advance.
4. Reserve a towncar to pick you up at the Orlando airport.
5. Plan your day to day activities in advance!
6. Leave the last day unplanned so you can do your favorite activity!
7. Use Fastpasses!!
8. Take a mid-day pool break!
9. Take lots of pictures!
10. Remember you are on vacation, take time to relax!!!

 

[andrabell]

Wow, such great tips everyone!

Pick a very specific and easy to find rendezvous point in case you get separated from your husband/partner/group.

Plan some "primers" before the trip, to get some extra anticipation going. I bought a lovely card for my DH that had a picture of the back of two wooden rockers with a bottle of wine in a table in between, the chairs are overlooking this gorgeous woodland nature scene. I told him that it's us at the Wilderness Lodge and he really liked that.

Also, about the pedicures. They take all the hard skin off the feet, which may not be the best idea when heading for Disney where you will log in many miles each day. The bottoms of the feet can be sensitive after a pedicure leaving them vulnerable to hot spots and blisters. A better idea might be to plan a pedicure at a Disney spa halfway or more through your trip as an extra indulgence and pampering from weary, park romping piggy toes.

 

[ExPirateShopGirl]

There is no way I can compete with the WDW-specific tips, but I will share with you our time-proven methods for coming home with more room in your suitcase than when you arrived, even after buying every goofy, dopey (puns intended) souvenir you can buy!

When we travel for a week or more, we have to bring our favorite shampoos and toiletries. While Mickey soaps are cute, they are never as good as what you normally use. Therefore, when we are close to traveling, I stop using the shampoo when the bottle gets half empty. I place that bottle aside and begin a new bottle, saving the half-bottle to pack for the trip. I do the same with conditioner, deodorant, sunscreen, toothpaste, disposable razor, anything we will all use for the week. This way we get to use our favorites and we simply throw them away on our last morning, and we get to use that space to pack souvenirs.

Now here's the scary part. We also do this with clothing items that are probably past their prime; socks, t-shirts to sleep in, basically things you wouldn't necessarily wear to the park, but need nonetheless. No laundry, no fuss no muss and, of course, more suitcase space! I don't let the kids pack too many t-shirts and I never let them pack sweatshirts, as I know they will get both during our stay.

Every morning I awaken thankful that iPods were invented, now we can eliminate all those pesky CDs! Yay!

Pack comfy (broken in) shoes and be prepared for blisters with neosporin, a variety of bandaids and Dr Scholl felt thingies and liquid bandage, too.

Yes, I'll still probably pack too much!

 

[ValerieK]

Thanks everyone. I am drawing up a list to include in a basket for a fundraising auction for my DD's preschool. I have put together a basket of things you would use on a trip to WDW. I had made a list, but wanted to see others opinions.

 

[minmate]

Here's just one tip I would like to add to all the great ones here:
Take a few minutes each night to write down the highlights of the day... get everyone's highlight if possible too. That way, you will have a written record to coincide with the pictures... and you can make notes on what worked and what maybe wasn't so great for the next time you go!

 

[ValerieK]

Here's just one tip I would like to add to all the great ones here:
Take a few minutes each night to write down the highlights of the day... get everyone's highlight if possible too. That way, you will have a written record to coincide with the pictures... and you can make notes on what worked and what maybe wasn't so great for the next time you go!

THis is a good one, I do this with my passporter, but I would have never thought to include this.

I just may have more than 10 to do.

 

[eeyore0062]

1) Stay onsite
2) Stay in a resort closest to the parks you will do most frequently
3) take clothes that are appropriate for the upcoming weather (always a poncho or umbrella and a light wrap for going into the air conditioned buildings).
4) take the time to figure out the best tickets for your trip before getting in line to buy.
5) make priority seating arrangements for at least 1 meal per day.
6) be flexible, in case of weather, not feeling well, etc.
7) plan breaks in your touring, whether they be during the day, or a non park day during that time.
8) find out which parks have EMH and when, and plan accordingly.
9) Take at least 2 pairs of comfortable walking shoes, so you can switch off from day to day.
10) have at least some plan for what you will do in each park, so you don't waste precious time looking at maps and planning once you get into them. Birnbaums, the Passporter or the Unofficial Guide are all good references, as well as All Ears Net and of course The Dis!

 

[ValerieK]

Well here is what I came up with. What does everyone think?

Tips for Planning a Trip to Walt Disney World

1. Do your research. Buy some guide books, especially the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World by Bob Sehlinger. Learn about the resorts, attractions shows and other activities available at Disney World. Search the internet for sites about WDW, there are tons of them. http://allearsnet.com is one of the best around. Deb Wills has put together a fabulous site. You can find pictures of the resort rooms, attraction information, and menus from all the restaurants and much much more.

2. Research Price for Rooms and Tickets and Transportation. Check
www.DisneyWorld.com for prices for rooms and tickets. Price everything out separately. Often times the packages are more expensive than booking everything separately. You can have a TownCar service pick you up and return you to the Airport if you don’t want to rent a car. They will even stop at a local grocery store for you.

3. Stay on Site. There are resorts in all price ranges, themes and size. You get several perks staying at a Disney resort including having your purchases sent back to your room and The Extra Magic Hours (EMH) at the Parks. One of the parks will open early or stay open late for resort guests only.
Less crowds and you are often able to get more rides done in less time.

4. Have a GENERAL plan. Make a general plan of what parks you will be going to what day. Check the Official Walt Disney World Site for park hours, parade and fireworks times and what attractions will be closed during your time there. www.DisneyWorld.com

5. Have each family member create a “Must-Do” list. You will not be able to see and do it all, even if you stay a week. Pick the important things and make sure those get done. WDW is the size of the city of Boston! There are 4 parks, 2 waterparks, 2 miniature golf courses, several golf courses, a shopping district, a speedway and much more!

6. Plan your Meals and do at least 1 Character meal. Schedule at least one sit-down meal a day. It makes a nice break. Make Priority Seating arrangements 90 days before the day you want to eat, especially during busy times and for Princess meals. Cinderella’s Royal Table breakfast in the
castle at the Magic Kingdom is full 5 or 10 minutes after the Dinning Reservation Center opens.
I have seen little girls in tears at the castle because their parents told them they could eat with Cinderella, but the parents did not know that this was the hardest reservation to get.

7. Arrive Early and take an afternoon break. Get to the parks 30 minutes before they open, especially if you have young kids who want to ride Dumbo. You can usually get 4 or 5 of the FantasyLand rides done before the crowds get bad. Get out of the parks in the middle of the afternoon. Go back to the resort and rest. Go swimming or just check out the resort. You and the
kids will need the break. Go back to the parks in the evening.

8. Use FastPass! Use the Fast Pass system it will save you time. It is FREE to everyone, not just resort guests. Know what rides you want to do and where they are located. Maximize your time by getting fastpass as often and as early as you can. Fastpasses sometimes run out for the more popular rides during busy times.

9. Take lots of Pictures and take time to write about the days events. Bring lots of film to take pictures, film is expensive at WDW. Take a few minutes to write down about what happened that day, especially if you scrapbook. The Passporter (www.pasporter.com) has special pockets for you to do just that! And some of the most easy to read maps of all the parks.

10. Most important one....relax and smell the roses, or turkey legs, or cinnamon nuts, or chlorine pools. Whatever. Just relax. WDW isn't going anywhere. If you rush around like a chicken with it's head cut off, you are going to miss something truly unexpected and magical. Slow down. Enjoy!!!!
(Thanks to goofy4tink on the DISboards for how to phrase this wonderful tip)


Edited to add new sentence

 

[MazdaUK]

This is my first time in WDW, but I practised in Paris a couple of years ago!

Just a couple to add...

Have a chiropodist do your feet (not just a "pretty pretty" pedicure) but do it a couple of weeks before you go so you're not too tender.

See as many of the shows as possible - they are all fantastic and included in your ticket (so saving £30+ per ticket to see shows at home), and a re a great sit down to recruit your strength

Eat very early or very late

Accept there is too much to do all in one trip

Don't set a schedule that has you dashing from one side of the park to the other (and back) - plan a circular route

Don't keep leading your kids to rides, deciding that "Half an hour wait is too long" and dragging them on to the next one. In fact if they're too young to read don't even tell them it is a long time, just play games in the line, look for the wonderful Disney detail and enjoy being there!

Can't wait - 17 days now

 

[mickeyluv'r]

1. bring your cell phones - keep them charged, set them to vibrate, and keep them in a pocket.
2. minimize the stuff you'll carry with you each day. Remember the mantra: Lightweight is good! How much will it really save you to carry item "x" around all day vs. how quickly you'll tire out?
3. Do bring a light sweater/sweatshirt/jacket. It will protect you from too much sun, light rain, air conditioning, cool mornings, cool nights, etc.
4. Time is money. If it saves time, it may be worth spending a few extra bucks, if you are able.
5. wear great walking shoes, the whole time you're there - even if you're just going out for a quick stroll.
6. Dress smartly on the plane - long pants (if you are binging them - easier to wear than carry), wear layers, wear SENSIBLE shoes (what if you had to escape quickly?), account for changes in weather between destinations.
7. Drink lots of water.
8. Use restrooms when you pass by them (esp. if they don't have a line!)
9. Consider wearing a swimsuit under your clothes for the day, especially if you plan on hitting the water rides.
10. Even if you don't plan on going on the water rides, don't wear clothes that become see-through when wet.

 

[mickeyholic]

1. STAY ONSITE
2. Book early, best sites book fast
3. Pack comfy clothes/shoes
4. take mid-day breaks and rest
5. Bring plenty of film
6. use a backpack
7. Must be in a Disney frame of Mind, It is not important if you are 50 years old, you have to act like a kid.
8. read a guide book & read mousesavers.com for useful tips
9. carry water bottles
10. definitely carry autograph books

 

[scran]

We've discovered that it's so much easier to keep track of 3 little boys when they all have the same colored shirts on. I know this sounds "cutsie" but believe me, it works. Orange Gap shirts are awesome.....lot of blue and reds but you can sure spot orange in a crowd. Their dad and grandfather wore orange polo sport shirts to make it even more user friendly.

 

[twotoohappy]

Wow! Everyone's ideas are so great
Here's mine.....
1. Stay onsite...if you go often, then buy DVC. It's worth it!
2. Use a towncar service with a free grocery stop and stock up on soda/water
3. Relax. Slow down. Enjoy what' around you. Smile and say hi to people!
4. Share an Illuminations cruise.
5. Bring a stain stick.
6. Bring crystal light individual drink packets and put them in your water bottle.
7. Bring enough glow bracelets to share with strangers.
8. I keep an eye on the Disney Store for "cheap" gifts to bring.
9. Take a picture with your family in the same spot every year.
10. Have your pictures developed on Main St. with some disney borders.

 

[gurleym]

All great suggestions Here is what I do top 10:

1. make reservations early especially if staying on sight the earlier the better this will also help in planning your budget.
2. purchase park tickets early cheaper than buying them at the gate.
3. keep an eye on airfare prices if you have to fly, look for great deals when you find one go ahead and grab it while you can fares change all the time.
4. check out different websights like this one to answer any questions that may come up. mousesavers.com and allearsnet.com are also great for answering any questions and helpful on ideas to save money.
5.prepare an itenarary for each day (always great to know which parks you want to go to each day also helps to plan where you want to eat so you are not constantly park hopping for every meal.
6. allow time in the afternoon to take a break (this is a must WDW is a big place)
7. make your priority seating (PS) 90 days ahead of time.
8. A character meal is a must we like Chef Mickey at breakfast. This is a great way to meat the characters up close without all the waiting in line. They also love to pose for pitures and autographs.
9.If you have kids especialy older ones let them do something like pin trading (you can find pins on ebay at least half the price of WDW prices they just have to have disney on the back to trade) or collect the smashed pennies or just see if they can find the hidden mickeys. This just adds a little extra thing for them to want to do.
10. and probably the most important thing is to have fun fun fun.