106 expert Disney World tips and tricks for the best vacation ever

View of a Disney park at dusk

Magical, memorable, and maybe a tad bewildering to plan. A trip to Disney World is an incredible experience for anyone of any age, but there’s no denying that organizing the adventure is complex. 

The team of expert travelers at Greenvans has compiled a list of 106 Disney World tips to make the planning process easier. We’ve done the road trip to Orlando many times and know that there’s a lot to consider. So, we’ve broken the list down into six easy-to-read categories that range from how to pack to our best advice for Disney World. 

How to prepare for Disney World 

Millions of people visit Disney World each year. From Magic Kingdom to Epcot, there are countless things to do. 

It’s essential to arrive calm and prepared. How, you ask? Here are 15 Disney tips and tricks to help you create a solid game plan and make the most of your time in the Happiest Place on Earth.

1. Create a daily schedule

There are four parks and a multitude of resorts, not to mention activities in Orlando and the beach just an hour away. Making a daily schedule will ensure you cover all the hot spots on your list while still leaving some time for spontaneity.

Source: VisitOrlando.com

2. Book reservations ahead of time

Disney is popular all year round. Since the pandemic, tourism has surged. It’s critical to reserve everything, from tickets to park entrances to dinner reservations, with as much advance notice as you can. This will help you avoid disappointment upon arrival.

3. Hire a Disney travel agent if needed

There are a lot of Disney World tips and tricks to make trip preparation easier. Still, it’s a meticulous process and requires substantial amounts of your time. While totally doable on your own, you might not have extra hours to devote or may simply be uninterested in taking on the challenge. In this case, it could be best to hire a dedicated travel agent.

Source: VisittheUSA.com

4. Get your steps in early

Walt Disney World is roughly the size of San Francisco. This means you’ll be walking a lot. Prepare for the physical requirements by increasing your step count and cardio activity in the weeks and months leading up to the trip.

5. Study up on Disney World’s transportation

The transportation system within the parks is intricate and involves gondolas, buses, boats, and the iconic Monorail. It’s extremely useful if you know how to use it! Take time before and upon arrival to understand the way it works so you don’t waste any valuable park time.

Source: WDWFocus.com

6. Download the My Disney Experience app

Need help with, well, everything? The My Disney Experience app can assist you with:

  • Trip planning
  • On site navigation
  • Wait times for attractions
  • Digital ticketing
  • Hotel room access


Download it before you go so you’ll be a pro at using it by the time you get there.

Source: Google Play

7. Research Disney dining options

There are multiple dining plans available. Depending on how many people you’re traveling with or how often you plan to dine out, a package could be a good idea. Make sure to go over each option and decide if it’s worth the cost.

8. Understand the park layouts

Treat a trip to Disney as you would a trip to a new city. Look at a map to get a feel for the geography and to plan which parts of the park you’re going to group together.

9. Research park attractions and shows

Have a good idea of the most popular rides, highly coveted showtimes, fireworks displays, and opportunities to meet your favorite characters. Don’t miss out on any exciting activities that will make your trip unforgettable!

10. Understand Disney’s PhotoPass service

If you want to immortalize your Disney experience, the PhotoPass service offers guests the option to have photos taken by professional photographers all throughout the parks. The photos are available digitally and can be shared through the Disney Experience app.

Source: ww-magazine

11. Research Disney World’s special events

Check the resort calendar for any special holiday events or character appearances that might be going on while you’re there. 

Source: WDWPrepSchool.com

12. Request Disney’s DAS service ahead of time

If anyone in your party has a disability, you may be eligible for Disability Access Service, so do adequate research and secure the pass before arrival.

13. Review Disney’s park rules and policies

The last thing you want to do is unknowingly break a rule or violate a policy you didn’t know existed! Review the guidelines to ensure an incident-free experience.

14. Purchase water park tickets

Especially if you’re visiting in the hot summer months. There’s nothing better than cooling off in the lazy river after a long morning of rides or an afternoon exploring the safari. 

Source: Travelandleisure.com

15. Embrace the magic and flexibility

Planning is necessary for a trip like this, but also remember that a lot of the magic is in flexibility and spontaneity. Don’t ruin a happy trip with too much rigidity. If things don’t work out quite as planned, that’s perfectly okay! The first and most important goal is to have fun.

Advice for Disney World: packing edition

Packing appropriately for your Disney vacation is crucial. Here are 19 suggestions for organizing your suitcase to guarantee a successful trip to Orlando

We advise starting to pack a few days to a full week before departure, giving you plenty of time to gather the necessary items without feeling stressed.

1. Bring your walking shoes

The area is vast and the lines for attractions can be long. It’s crucial to have solid walking shoes to avoid discomfort and blisters. If you plan to invest in a new pair, make sure to break them in before you go.

2. Pack for the weather and time of year

Florida’s climate varies depending on the time of year, so it’s important to pack the right clothing. Research the weather for your trip dates. If you’re going in the spring, summer, or fall, light and breathable clothing is ideal. Winter sees cooler temperatures, especially at night, so bring layers to prepare for temps of all levels.

3. Don’t forget a safety kit

A small safety kit containing essentials such as band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes can be a lifesaver during your trip. Your local drugstore will likely sell a compact kit for around $12.

4. Invest in external battery chargers

You don’t want to miss capturing a magical photo opp because your camera ran out of battery. Investing in a reliable external battery charger is worth the cost for uninterrupted fun at Disney World.

5. Bring sun protection

It’s not called the Sunshine State for no reason! With more than 300 days of sparkling sun per year, it’s advisable to protect yourself from the strong rays. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are useful.

Source: AllEars.net

6. And bring sun relief

No matter how careful you are, there’s always a chance that the sun will leave its mark. Don’t forget a bottle of aloe vera gel or lotion to relieve those pesky burns and itching.

7. Pack ponchos and waterproof shoes

There is always potential for rain, especially in the fall, so bring a poncho to stay dry during sudden showers. Waterproof shoes are a great investment, as walking around for miles in wet shoes and socks is very uncomfortable!

8. Carry a refillable water bottle

The one free item you can rely on in Disney is ice water. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and protect the environment too!

9. Make snack packs

Some of the best advice for Disney World is to bring your own food, as there are no rules against doing so. Snack packs should be high energy and easy to carry, so carry along some nuts, energy bars, and fruits to keep you hydrated and satiated during a long day at the park.

10. Bring a backpack

Speaking of snack packs, you’ll need somewhere to put them! A backpack that slips on and off easily and fits all the necessities, from food to ponchos, is a useful tool for a full day of exploration.

11. Don’t forget your ID and travel documents

It’s important to have your ID, tickets, and any necessary travel documents with you at all times. Keep them in a secure and easily accessible location to avoid any inconveniences at the park entrances or during your trip. If you prefer, bring copies instead.

12. Pack some swimwear

It’s hot! Take advantage of that steamy Florida weather with a day at the water park or the hotel pool. Having swimwear on hand allows you to take advantage of all the water-based attractions and amenities Disney World has to offer.

13. Purchase a portable fan or misting fan

Compact and battery-operated fans are convenient to carry and can make a significant difference in your mood when that midday sun hits. It will keep you cool and calm while waiting in line or taking public transportation.

14. Bring Disney-themed attire

Enhance your experience by adding a touch of Disney magic to your wardrobe. Buy a few character t-shirts, hats, or accessories to get into the spirit and create memorable photos.

15. Buy cooling towels

Looking for instant relief from the heat? Pack some cooling towels in your backpack. All you need to do to stay fresh is activate the towel with water, wring it out, and place it on the back of your neck. It stays cool for up to three hours and costs $20 or less on Amazon. 

Source: SnappyTowels.com

16. Pack lanyards for pin trading

Not sure what pin trading is? Don’t worry, we will explain later. If you decide to participate, lanyards are the only way to show other traders that you want to get in on the fun. Pack a few to have on hand while wandering the park.

17. Bring a pack of Disney postcards and stamps 

Don’t waste time waiting in a long line to buy overpriced postcards to send to Grandma and Grandpa. Buy a pack online before you go, bring some stamps, get your postcard rubber-stamped at The Newsstand Shop, and pop it into one of the mailboxes found throughout the parks for delivery.

18. Don’t forget a wine opener

If you plan to picnic under the fireworks with the family and would like to share a celebratory glass of wine or two with your partner, double-check that you’ve packed a wine opener! There’s nothing worse than setting up a fabulous picnic only to find you’ve got no way to dive into the booze. 

19. Bring a travel journal

Bringing a travel journal is some of the best advice for Disney World. Documenting what worked and what didn’t will make the next trip much easier. Keeping notes on your favorite rides, parks, and memories will make this trip last forever.

Source: Amazon.com

Budgeting tips for Disney World

What is a realistic Disney budget? The answer depends on many factors, including where you plan to stay, what you want to see, and how you intend to get there. Costs can add up quickly if you’re not paying close attention.

There are plenty of ways to visit the Happiest Place on Earth without breaking the bank. Consider these 18 budget tips to make your vacation to Disney World unforgettable — not unaffordable! 

1. Set a realistic Disney budget — and stick to it

Overwhelmed about how to prepare for Disney World? Start by building a realistic budget. Consider what you’re willing to spend overall, and break that cost down in terms of food, lodging, transportation, parking, and any extras like day trips or shopping. Leave some extra funds for unexpected occurrences and stick to it.

2. Utilize Budgeting Apps

If budget planning is not your forte, consider using an app like EveryDollar. It helps take the guesswork out of creating a budget, especially when determining the cost of a Disney World trip, which can quickly become confusing.

3. Carry cash for easy payments

You might be wondering — does Disney take cash anymore? The answer is yes, and that’s good news for anyone concerned with overspending. Allot your daily purchase amount in cash and bring only that amount. Once it’s gone, it’s time to go back to the hotel or enjoy free activities, like strolling Disney Springs.

4. Eat breakfast at your hotel

The most reiterated financial advice for Disney World is to watch your food costs. It can add up quickly and before you know it, you’re over budget. Save your money for character meals and midday refuels by eating the included breakfast at the hotel. 

A pro Disney World tip — take a few extra pieces of bread or fruit to munch on throughout the day!

5. Bring your own snacks

If you’ve browsed our packing list, you already have snacks in your suitcase. The added bonus is that by bringing nuts and granola bars, you can avoid overspending on snacks at the park, which cost at least $6 apiece.

6. Stay on property

It may seem counterintuitive, but staying at a Disney resort can save you money. There are various benefits to doing so, like complimentary transportation and extra time in the parks through the “Early Theme Park Entry” program.

7. Purchase souvenirs online

Souvenir prices at the parks are significantly inflated. Buying what you want online can save you a chunk of change and keep you from buying things you might not really want because you’re swept away in the moment.

8. Take advantage of free amenities

Looking for some Disney World recommendations that aren’t pricey? Believe it or not, the park offers many free amenities to take advantage of. Transportation, parades, fireworks, interactive play areas, and character meet and greets are available at no cost.

9. Spend a day doing something else

If you take a day off from the parks, you can go to plenty of other places and still be immersed in Disney magic. Head to Disney Springs for shopping, restaurants and free entertainment. Go to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort for dinner and stay to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks on the beach—for free!

10. Plan a weekday trip during the off-season

Rates are often higher during weekends, summer months, and holidays. So if your schedule is flexible, try to work around those times so you can save some extra cash.

Source: Undercover Tourist

11. Buy Disney gift cards ahead of time at a discount

Sam’s Club, Target, and Walmart sell discounted Disney gift cards between 4% and 5% off and are super easy to use onsite (and are a great way to stay within your budget!).

12. Don’t buy the Disney PhotoPass

Save almost $200 by not purchasing Disney’s PhotoPass service. Instead, purchase a stand so you can take family pictures around the park without hiring a photographer. Or, ask your neighbor while waiting in line to take a photo with your phone. You can always have it professionally printed, for a much lower cost, when you get home.

13. Buy everything you need ahead of time

From bandaids to peanuts, water bottles to character t-shirts, one of the most useful Disney World tips is to buy whatever you need before you get there. Prices on even the simplest items are significantly higher inside the park and can inflate your spending if you’re not careful.

14. Like Disney pins in bulk 

Are you planning to take part in pin trading? Take advantage of this Disney tip — buy your pins ahead of time. Character pins can range from $8 to $10 at the park, but if you buy them online before you go, they run for as little as $1 each.

Source: DisneyDose.com

15. Take advantage of status discounts

Are you a Florida resident or a former or an active-duty U.S. military member? You’re eligible for some significant discounts! Florida residents can save 40% on 4-day park tickets, and military personnel can purchase a 4-day ticket for $349 plus tax.

16. If you plan to rent a car, don’t rent it at the airport

Renting a car offsite from the airport can save you up to 26% in total. Even with the fee charged by Uber or a taxi from the terminal to the rental station, you’re still set to save a pretty penny.

17. Better yet, rent a van from Greenvans and drive down to Florida

Calculate how much you can save by renting a passenger van and taking a cross-country road trip to Disney on Route 1. 

A van rental eliminates transportation to and from the airport, multiple plane tickets, and a rental car. You’re no longer at the mercy of a delayed or worse, canceled flight. 

18. Use points to book your hotel

This one might seem obvious, but with all the details to consider while booking your Disney trip, it’s easy for important information to slip through the cracks. If you are part of a points system, be it Marriott or a credit card program, use what you have to book a hotel and free up some extra cash for spending.

Tips for making the most out of your time at Disney

There are lots of Disney tips and tricks meant to make your time at Disney the best experience possible. Here are 19 tried-and-true suggestions that Disney experts live by to craft a magical vacation in Orlando. 

1. Use your Magicband (if you bought one)

If convenience is what you’re after, Magicbands are designed for exactly that. They literally open doors, pay for food, and fast-track you to the front of very long lines for attractions, including the park’s most coveted rides. 

The band is not for everyone, so do your research to decide if this investment will enhance your Disney experience.

Source: DisneyFoodBlog.com

2. Don’t try to see everything

Being realistic with your expectations is key to an unforgettable trip. Some very useful advice for Disney World vacations is to see what you can, but don’t try to see everything. 

Attempting to discover every nook and cranny of the park will only lead to stress and disappointment. See as much as you can, and be okay with leaving some activities for next time.

3. Print out itineraries ahead of time

In the same vein, knowing exactly which sights cannot be missed and scheduling them appropriately will make your life easier. Bring a printout of your itinerary and stick to it. Remember to schedule time for spontaneity — you don’t want to miss a great experience just because your itinerary didn’t allow for it!

4. Prioritize a few activities a day

There’s a big difference between crafting a schedule from home and actually being at the park. There are so many things you simply cannot account for until you’re there. Bathroom breaks, longer-than-usual lines, minor emergencies, and transportation timing can significantly shift your schedule. 

By prioritizing just a few activities each day, you can successfully complete your goals without rushing and with enough time to truly enjoy your Dole Whip in the sun!

5. Purchase tickets in advance

Don’t waste time waiting in line to purchase tickets at the park when you can simply buy them in advance. This is one of the top tips for Disney World and its importance cannot be overstated.

6. Visit Disney Springs

You don’t have to go to a park every single day! There is plenty of magic outside of the boundaries of Walt Disney World, like in Disney Springs, which offers dining, shopping, and entertainment options. An afternoon here gives you a break from the crowds and adds variety to your experience.

Source: TripAdvisor.com

7. Rent a van to explore the Orlando region

A spacious passenger van is perfect for exploring places outside of Disney World, such as Universal Studios, the Kennedy Space Center, or the beach! 

8. Arrive early for rope drop

Set your alarm and arrive at least 30 minutes before the park officially opens so you can be first in line for rope drop, getting you to the rides you want before the masses.

Source: Disneytouristblog.com

9. In fact, just arrive early

The parks often open before the time listed on the website, so arriving even earlier may get you into the park faster.

10. Go shopping in the morning

If you’re one of the first guests to enter, this is a good time to go shopping! Avoid the crazy lines in souvenir shops that start to snake by mid-morning.

11. Head to the back of the park to start your day

The excitement of being at the most magical place on earth can lead to a loss in logical thinking. Most people will beeline directly to the closest attraction, which is why our Disney tip for you is to do the opposite — start your journey in the back of the park and make your way against the crowd to the front.

12. Visit one park per day

Even with the Park Hopper pass, there is no guarantee you’ll be able to visit two parks in a day, especially during high season. Eliminate the wonder by committing to one park per day. There’s plenty to do, and exhausting a park early means more time at the hotel pool.

13. Remember to make your park reservation

Of all the Disney tips and tricks, this just might be the most useful. Do not forget to make a reservation for each park you want to visit! A ticket purchase does not translate to a reservation, so secure your Disney Park Pass booking before you get there.

If you really don’t care about rides or your kids are too small to go on them, avoid the popular ones altogether. Skipping a spin on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance could save you a lot of time and frustration that comes with long waits under the blazing sun.

Source: Mousehacking.com

15. Or purchase an Individual Lightning Lane for those rides 

Visitors can purchase an Individual Lightning Lane entry for up to 2 experiences per day, so if there is a ride you really can’t miss but the rest aren’t of interest, buy only what you want and forgo the rest.

16. Hop on the PeopleMover when you need a break

This is a sweet Disney tip that satisfies the need to travel within the parks and see the sights along the way. Bonus — you’ll get to ride through Space Mountain!

Source: BlogMicky.com

17. Cool down with a 3D Film 

Make your way to Epcot’s Imagination! pavilion for a midday rest better than naptime. Catch a short Disney or Pixar film inside the air-conditioned Magic Eye Theater. Rejuvenate without missing a moment of Disney magic.

18. Plan your meal time and order in the morning

There’s no need to find yourself “hangry” and waiting a long time for your dish when lunchtime rolls around. Each morning, schedule and order food so that when it’s lunchtime, your food is hot and ready. 

19. Book your dinner reservations 60 days out

If you’ve decided to stay on the property, use the My Disney Experience app to make dinner reservations early. Guests are eligible to book restaurants 60 days out plus the length of their stay, so if you’re spending seven days at Disney, you can secure dining up to 68 days before arrival.

Traveling tips for your next Disney vacation

Knowing exactly how you plan to get to Orlando and how you will move around once you’re actually there can be the difference between a good experience and a fantastic one. 

Travel is an often-overlooked but critical piece of the Disney puzzle, so read our 17 suggestions to avoid any unnecessary snags. 

1. Decide how you’ll get there

No matter how you slice it, a trip to Disney is a big endeavor. Knowing how you’re going to arrive will eliminate a lot of stress. Are you going to fly? Take a train? Drive? Decide what’s the smoothest way to get there considering the size of your group and your geographic location. 

2. Consider renting a van

Renting a passenger van is a good option for larger families or groups who want to avoid the stress of flying. Consider turning your journey to Disney into a spring break road trip adventure and stop in some interesting places along the way. 

3. Book your travel early

The last thing you want is to reserve your nonrefundable tickets only to find out there aren’t any convenient flights for your dates. That’s why booking your travel early is included in our list of Disney tips and tricks. 

Waiting for airline prices to drop is often futile — it might be worth the extra dollars to know that your arrival is secure.

4. Stay longer, pay less

Not a budgeting tip, per se, but rather a perk. The daily park price drops significantly when you stay for seven days instead of three, starting at $109 for a one-day ticket and $69 per day for seven-day tickets.

5. Rent a vehicle if you’re staying off-site

There are hundreds of hotels within a half-an-hour’s drive of Disney World. If you plan to stay in one, because of points or otherwise, renting a van is a comfortable and affordable alternative to a car rental. It gives you more space to bring what, and who, you want — so you don’t have to miss out on any road trip essentials!

6. Have rideshare apps downloaded

Yes, Disney has an intricate transportation system. However, there might come a moment when everyone is too tired to deal with it. 

When that happens, order an Uber or Lyft so you can get where you need to know as quickly as possible.

7. Plan your trip according to the temperature…

Florida is a hot place. It might feel like your kids’ summer break is an ideal time to visit Disney, but the weather could prove otherwise. Weather in January and February is cooler and more manageable, with the additional perk of smaller crowds. 

8. …and hurricane season!

September and October are the peak months of Florida’s hurricane season. This doesn’t necessarily mean you will experience a hurricane, but you will likely experience stormy weather. Theme parks in the rain aren’t optimal, so plan around this time of year.

Source: Climatecenter.fsu.edu

9. Avoid peak season and holiday weekends

Aside from higher costs, peak season at Disney means massive crowds. The park can hold up to 70,000 visitors and is generally filled to capacity over school breaks and holidays. Avoid these times of year if you can, and if you can’t, try to plan your visit a few weeks before or after the holiday itself. 

Thinking of traveling over Memorial Day but don’t want to fight the masses at Disney? Check out our 14 best East Coast weekend getaways for Memorial Day.

10. Check your points

If you are enrolled in a points program through your credit card or with a specific hotel brand, see if any of the nearby hotels are covered before you book a room.

11. Travel to Florida by train

Starting or ending your Florida getaway in Miami? The Brightline rail runs from Orlando to the Magic City and is a fun way to get there. What’s more, kids 12 years old and under ride free with the purchase of adult tickets.

12. Factor in a day to see a rocket launch 

The Kennedy Space Center is a mere 66 miles from Disney World and it’s a fantastic day trip. Check the website’s calendar for upcoming rocket launches and make sure to reserve your spots in advance. 

Source: KennedySpaceCenter.com

13. Calculate a least 90 minutes for onsite transportation 

Remember, Disney World is the size of a small city, and understanding that transport around the parks can take up to one-and-a-half hours will help you plan your itinerary more accurately.

14. Genie+ might drain your phone’s battery

As mentioned, battery packs and portable chargers are key to a pleasant experience at Disney. Charge everything each night so you don’t find yourself without access to the perks of Genie+.

15. Give yourself a lot of time at the airport

If you choose to fly, make sure to give yourself ample time to get to Orlando’s airport. It’s the busiest airport in the state! Better to be waiting around for your flight than missing it.

16. Skip Saturdays at all the parks

Spend Saturday somewhere else to avoid massive crowds and long lines! It’s a great day to explore Disney Springs, go to Cocoa Beach, or check out some things to do in Orlando. 

Source: WorldClassVip.Com

17. Leave space for souvenirs

We know there is a lot to pack to ensure a smooth vacation, but a top tip for Disney World is to leave space in your luggage to bring some magic home. 

How to make Disney fun for little ones

Going to Disney World is a child’s dream come true. To make sure the experience is everything they expect and more, follow these 18  Disney tips and tricks below that are expertly crafted with kids in mind.

1. Take plenty of breaks

Disney is a magical wonderland, but there’s no denying that it’s hot and crowded. The excitement of Cinderella combined with lots of walking can be overwhelming for all of us, especially the little ones. 

Take lots of breaks, drink lots of water, and go back to the hotel for a catnap if necessary.

2. Bring a stroller or other carrying device

Disney World is the size of a small city. Even the most active of children will tire out after some time. Be realistic with the amount of time your child can keep up and use a stroller to conserve energy.

Strollers can be rented on the property or you can bring your own. Our passenger vans are spacious enough to fit everyone and everything comfortably, so don’t hesitate to bring yours along!

3. Pack entertainment or toys

There will be times when you’ll have to wait in line for rides, lunch, or meet and greets with famous characters. Bring something to keep occupied that also fits snugly into your backpack — crayons, legos, and portable games are good ways to pass the time.

4. Set expectations

This might be the hardest part! Set your kids up for success by keeping their expectations realistic. Explain that it is not a guarantee that you will run into Elsa. That way, if you do, the moment will be extra special!

5. Know the height requirements for rides

One size does not fit all at Disney World. Check your child’s height against the requirements before getting in line for a ride to avoid wasting time and a big disappointment.

6. Plan a character meal on a leisure day

A day at any of the parks is sure to be a busy one. Reserve a meal with your child’s favorite character on a leisure day so you can relax and enjoy the moment without needing to rush off to the next appointment.

7. Find the hidden Mickeys

There are more than 1,000 Mickey images hidden around the resort. Turn this into a fun family scavenger hunt or use it as entertainment while waiting in line.

8. Talk about the parks you want to visit

Before you go, sit down with the kids to see which of the four parks is a must if which, if any, are of no interest. No point in wasting time in a park that no one wants to go to!

9. Spot giraffes at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

A day off from the park doesn’t mean you won’t have fun! Spend an afternoon at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, spotting African wildlife and splashing around Samawati Springs Pool. 

10. Buy a Disney-themed backpack

This Walt Disney World tip is twofold because it saves you money and it will make your little ones happy. Shop online for a Disney backpack before your trip and fill it with the day’s essentials each morning of your vacation.

11. And a Disney-themed water bottle

Ice water is free in the park, and your child will love asking for refills in their brand-new, Disney-themed water bottle. 

12. Learn about pin trading

Pins are popular at Disney. Some people collect them, while others trade the pins between other guests or the park’s cast of characters. It’s a nice way for kids to make friends or overcome feelings of shyness when approaching a character. Pins cost $8 – $10 apiece at the resort or can be bought in bulk on Amazon.

13. Take a family photo at Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse

Remember the Swiss Family Robinson? Watch the film before you go and explore a recreation of the shipwrecked family’s treehouse where you can take a family photo with lush, tropical scenery as your backdrop.

14. Know the feeding schedule at Kilimanjaro Safaris

If you want to take a safari ride and visit the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon. This coincides with the animals’ feeding times and will give you the best chance to see as much wildlife as possible.

15. Surprise them with souvenirs 

Tuck a little Disney souvenir under your little ones’ pillows or leave it on the nightstand so they can wake up to a little gift! Not only will buying the souvenirs online before you go save money, but it will also add to the magic of the experience. 

16. Map out where you’re going to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks show 

This is a highlight of the trip which can quickly become a nightmare if not planned properly. There are many downloadable maps online to secure the best spot. Scope out your spot, pack a picnic, and get there as early as you can!

17. Ask a cast member to skip the Haunted Mansion 

If your children are young or easily frightened, you can still go on the Haunted Mansion ride without going through the Haunted Mansion itself. Let a cast member know you’d like to skip the scary part, and they will escort you to the ride.

18. Keep the kids entertained on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway

There are more hidden Mickeys to be discovered on the runaway railway than anywhere else in the park. This Disney tip should keep the little ones busy for a while!

How can I make Disney World better?

Make Disney World better by planning ahead, budgeting your adventure, reserving restaurants well in advance, and packing according to season. Bring accessories to make your trip easier, like portable fans and chargers. Set expectations with your family about what is, and what isn’t, realistic. 

Most importantly, be pragmatic with yourself — if it all feels too overwhelming, hire an agent to help you make the most of it.

Arrive happy at the Happiest Place On Earth

One of the best ways to keep everyone’s spirits up is by making sure the arrival is seamless. If possible, consider renting a spacious passenger van to keep the whole family comfortable on the way. Make a playlist of your favorite Disney music, bring along some themed games, and plan a few interesting stops to break up the ride. 

Vacations should be fun from start to finish, and with Greenvans by your side, you’re guaranteed to arrive happy to the happiest place on earth! 

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