Ultimate Walt Disney World Trip and Travel Hacks List!

[@carriel3054]

My husband and I bought matching Mickey watches on our last trip. We put them on immediately. His stopped working about 1 hour later. We went back with NO receipt (lost) and NO packaging (thrown away) thinking we'd have to beg for a replacement... NOPE. No problem. Cast Member said "Help yourself to a new one!" and we were on our way. Amazing customer service.

[@rebekahallen6188]

When I last visited WDW I had a full size backpack full of stuff. I was chaperoning a high school marching band of over 100 kids and I had everything you could think of (bandaids, aspirin, sunscreen, extra socks, etc...). Getting thru bag check took a couple minutes for just my bag. But on the last day, I had put everything into one of 3 gallon sized clear ziplock bags. The security guard that time looked in my bag and said, "Oh my gosh! You're awesome!" She went thru everything in about 20 seconds. It was a huge difference in time. If everyone did that, bag check might go much faster!

[@lenarosa5948]

Rebekah Allen are there lockers or cubbies available for you bags at rides tho??

[@steventeixeira9176]

Rebekah Allen Us band kids are expensive

[@thewillwiththeskill]

thank you brilliant person!!

[@craftysoutherner2023]

Pack some crystal light/koolaid/powerade single serving packets in your bag. Free ice water becomes a nice flavored beverage!

[@msvalina007]

I don't know how much you get paid, but you have the perfect voice for this vlog. Something about your voice that just makes me excited to go! Forget that it's also informative! You deserve a raise!

[@PunkyPink85]

The background music always gets me excited to go too!

[@Vaderd2k926]

I heartily agree but being a big time AJ fan, let me tell you SHE is the one giving out the raises! Lol. She’s awesome and her blog is awesome.

[@vedasl5]

Yes AJ fan... Love your Disney voice

[@maryannadkins2705]

YOU are so right! I had sworn off all things Disney...until I discovered this channel....

[@OkieGal2]

I agree 1000%!

[@mikewilson416]

I Would just like to say a huge thank you for this video. We are going for a week starting Saturday. I phoned this morning and got a 25% discount applied to the hotel rooms we booked 8 months ago. This video literally saved me $1300.

[@screambluemurder101]

mikewilson416 how?!

[@alyssajohnson3834]

How ???

[@aquasheep9535]

Did Jesus have a cat? Because you can apply newly released discounts on rooms you have already booked. So if you book a room for full price, check every few days to make sure if there’s any discounts. If there is, call them tell them you want the discount on your room and they will apply it! Means you can book rooms way ahead, but still get a good price!

[@cocothedogwholovesdisney9410]

Is it weird that I’m going to Disney in like two years and I keep watching these because I am saving up for it

[@scarlettturner2187]

Coco the dog who Loves disney I am doing exactly the same :) I’m going in August 2021 :)

[@kimlouwhoff]

I am doing the same! And I'm going in november/december 2022 😁

[@jannatmusawi1229]

Me too lol! I dont know the exact time I'm going but it's probably in December or January of 2022.

[@katiecross3151]

Not at all. I have no plans to go to Disney but I am just obsessed with Disney

[@cole7942]

Scarlett Turner i’m going the too or at least most likely!

[@missybarbour6885]

One time my friend bought a Snow White souvenir cup and dropped it later that day, shattering the ornamental Snow White. As soon as it hit the floor, cast members she described as "like a ninja SWAT team" swooped in to sweep it up and had a replacement in her hand before she had any idea what was happening!

[@taffysaur]

Love stories like this.

[@carlom2286]

mychael since you like stories like that.. Once I was in Magic Kingdom anda cast meber like literally just like touched my arm and she was really nervous and was saying sorry all the time I told her not to worry we were waiting in a line it was 40 celcius, she brought me a lemonade slurpee

[@shaniaa.1397]

Disney...better than the FBI

[@choirfandomcookingrantsand496]

@@shaniaa.1397 I dont sleep right at my home in my own bed but when I go to Disney World I fall asleep like a baby and I feel safer. I dont know why but there is a sense of peace and safety that I feel on property.

[@cortneykuskowski3970]

I was at universal studios when I had this happen to me. Broke my Harry Potter cup once I left park and got back to resort hotel. I was really sad and they came up to me and asked what happened. I told them and they literally ran to the park and got me a new one. It was a heck of a trek for him to go to. Love places that take care of their guests.

[@marclovel]

Personal Tip: If you want to ride the Avatar: Flight of Passage, but you're unwilling to wait for 2-5 hours in line, try going to Pandora just after the Rivers of Light show. Usually, people go home after that. For some reason the Disney app don't update near closing time as it said the wait time was 2 hours, but then we managed to breeze through the line in less than 40 minutes. It was by far the best "experience ride" I've ridden in Disney. :D

[@ReneeGaud]

Not really a hack but I like to hide all the H2O products they leave in your hotel room (shampoo, conditioner, lotions etc..) The maid usually replenishes them every day. At the end of the week, ​I have a nice collection. When I get home I donate them to our local women's shelter.

[@hi-rq8iq]

Renee Gaud aww that’s so kind of u

[@TheMissess4]

Awww. It's a good cause. Love it

[@morganw2492]

That's a great idea! Shelters are always looking for hygiene item donations

[@horeageorgian7766]

It is still called stealing, despite the enthusiasm here.

[@ReneeGaud]

It isn't stealing when they stock your room with these products for use. There are no instructions on what I can and cannot do w/ these items.

[@deliriouslyj]

I have one that I haven't seen mentioned anywhere! If you stay in a Disney resort, they have an option that you can skip housekeeping during your stay and you'll get a gift card rebate. When we stayed last September, we were at the All Star Movie Resort for 4 or 5 nights and got a $40 gift card for skipping housekeeping. We called the front desk if we needed extra towels or shampoos, etc and they'd bring the stuff up. We did this again when we were there in February. The first time they offered, but the second time we had to ask. But still.. I don't mind getting a gift card and having to make my bed myself ;)

[@scotthouston4714]

You confused me there for a minute. Since usually room service means getting food delivered to your room. I was going to say that would be a really hard to do at the campsites and in the cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds. So you skipped the mousekeeping service. Well the cabins you could do that too, since they do have some cleaning supplies in the closet. A vacum and a broom. That is all I can remember right now of what was in the closet there.

[@deliriouslyj]

Fixed - thanks!

[@scotthouston4714]

Your welcome. I just imagine someone ordering room service in the cabin. By the time it got to them. The food would be cold or warm.. They probably have some insulated bags to keep the food warm or cold. Now I have to find out if they do have room service there in the cabins at Fort Wilderness. I will have to wait till Oct to find out though, :)

[@MaureenKenzakowski]

@@scotthouston4714 no .

[@mauricedibert2635]

Did the same. Used the gift card on Merch! Also I usually leave small tips for the cleaning staff. Saved that too.

[@maureennikitas3760]

Thanks for this great info! One tip that someone mentioned to me is because so many people lose their cell phones, make your lock screen a screenshot of a cell phone number of someone else in your party. (Not your own cell # LOL) This way if your phone is found (we found one on Thunder Mountain) someone can call the phone # that you put on your lock screen.

[@rebekahallen6188]

Maureen Nikitas BRILLIANT!!!!

[@ericholmes3363]

this is very helpul

[@cheflilyo3142]

Genius!

[@malbell0329]

I love this idea

[@robertatkinson6864]

On most Android phones there is place in settings where you can set a Lock Screen Message. I have mine set to provide emergency contact information, Name and phone Number.

[@kairi4evur]

As a CM at Pecos Bill's, I cannot thank you enough for the bit about there being two lines at each register. Spread 👏 the 👏 word 👏

[@divinemrsq]

Aww, Pecos Bill's is my favorite QS, when I first became a passholder it was 20 percent off so we went for that, then became addicted to the fajitas! I miss the ayce guacamole though, sigh :)

[@Leafpool2]

My hack has always been going in off-season. Small crowds, nobody ever believes me when I say December/January are the best times to go. Also put your fast passes, dining reservations, parades, etc. In your phone calendar. Usually the default alert setting is it reminds you 30mins beforehand. Seems a lot easier than scrolling through phone pictures too especially if you have a lot of them... A lot of these have worked for me at Universal too

[@robertatkinson6864]

The week between Christmas and New Year is actually one of the busiest times of the year, but otherwise I do agree with you. Late Apr-May and Sept-Oct are also good times to go with less crowds.

[@taylorharvey6091]

Leafpool2 december isn’t the absolute best because in the beginning to the middle it’s nationals for us cheerleaders and then also christmas after that, so that whole month is pretty much full

[@kimberlysmith7540]

Love the gift card idea! Maybe we can give the kids each their own with a set amount on it, and they can spend it on whatever they choose to in the park! Once its gone, they are done with souvenirs!

[@maddyyarema3119]

Kimberly Smith Kroger card holders get up to 4x fuel points at Kroger gas for gift card purchases!

[@divinemrsq]

I do this with my daughter :) I also give her a couple of rolls of quarters and a baggie of shiny/new pennies for the souvenir coin pressed penny machines!

[@buckylovesplums_6731]

That's was my family does they get each of us a gift card

[@orangeblossom300]

We did that when we brought our six kids. Worked beautifullly

[@rooftopvoter3015]

Once its gone, they are done with souvenirs! Wanna bet?

[@fuzzyli1974]

If you bring a stroller, get a $1 poncho or shower liner to put over it Incase of rain and secure it with those office clips. Works great, keeps everything dry!

[@alexquirk561]

One idea for buying merchandise, if you're there for a week, wait a few days to buy merchandise. Take pictures of what you want, and in the second half of your trip start buying some of the items you looked at previously. Could prevent some of those impulse buys.

[@michellechetrit4057]

Alex Quirk i do this as well!

[@whome718]

if you prefer bottled water and you’re bringing a backpack or bigger bag, I definitely recommend going to walmart or a grocery store and buying a case of bottled water! you can buy like 30 bottles for $4 as opposed to just buying one for $4 in the parks

[@emilymccratic9672]

My best tip for WDW is to get a backpack from Amazon, a small to medium one for the parks. I use mine as an autograph bag that I add onto every trip. Mine is a white one and the characters sign is in different color sharpies that i bring with me!

[@NismoakaNismovsky]

Also, it's a good idea to bring extra pair of socks and few plastic zip-bags to your park backpack. They're great to hide umbrellas, ponchos and other stuff (like souvenir mugs, iced water bottle taken from your hotel room or soaking wet socks you just changed, lol) to keep everything tidy and dry in there.

[@MandalorianFanboy]

If you are worried about battery life for your phone, spend $30 on Amazon and buy a battery phone case. I love it. Half way through the day I push the button on my battery case and 30 min later fully charged again. No need to fool with charging cables either this way.

[@spraypaintninja2716]

This is amazing I have one and they work great

[@sugetoosty1685]

Yes, I have traveled all over the world, and one thing that saves me besides off-loading a bunch of pics/vids before going- is to take a back-up battery and plug the phone in...has literally saved the day before.

[@dolfan29]

Disney only allows soft sided coolers only (the collapsible kind). No hard coolers allowed! They will make you return it back to your car or room.

[@mvass294evr]

Packin' Hack....Buy the Disney Tote bags from the Disney store before you go on your trip. Store them flat behind the zipped liner of your hard side suitcase or fold them up in a carry on. Use them to bring home souvenirs. They can be carried on the plane. On Southwest airlines you get 2 checked bags per person for free and 2 carry on's per person. So if you have 2 adults, that's 8 total bags! (Although we only check 1 bag per person.) We often come home with more than we left with and we also don't fold our clothes when we are coming home. We just throw them in the suitcase. Don't ask me how, but, we almost always cut it close with the checked bag weight limit. This is where the tote bags come in. Use the tote bags for the souvenirs or items that cause your checked bag to be overweight as a carry on. If your flight leaves after your check out time, you can leave all of your carry on bags with bell services at your resort and go to the park for the day and then pick up your items when you board the magical express back to the airport. The second packin' hack I have is to take a small container (like a food storage container) and put a couple of detergent pods in them. We don't always do laundry on our trips, but, on longer trips we plan for it. Any trip longer than 7 days will almost require a trip to the laundry. We pack our detergent and a few dryer sheets. Then we don't have to buy it and it is ready to go when we are. It also makes those suitcases smell nice. Packin' hack 3...Espsom Salts are your friend. Buy a small container from the dollar store. It comes in a pint size milk carton container and it can be placed in your checked bag. I put mine in a zip loc bag for extra assurance that it won't break open. After a long day in the park, I come back to the resort and fill the tub with about 3 inches of water and soak my feet. You can also do a full on bath, but, for me the feet are enough. It gives me a bit of relaxation before turning in and I have the energy to get up and to it again the next day. We are in the park anywhere from 8-12 hours so those feet are tired at the end of the day. I hope you enjoy my packin' hacks.

[@cheflilyo3142]

Thank you 💜

[@Lucretiaseesall]

Yes, Thank you for those hacks. Will most definitely put Epsom Salts on my list!

[@PrimeTime-rp3lq]

Thanks

[@suehypno4u]

* Have a larger caribiner clip on your bag--it's great for hanging your bag off doors in restrooms, hanging mugs or bags or other things off your bag, etc. * If you take prescription medications, pack more than what you think you'll need for your trip just, just in case--I ended up staying 3 days longer than planned due to Hurricane Irma and went those three days without my high blood pressure meds, which definitely impacted how I felt during the rest of my time there. I wasn't able to get additional meds there because nothing was open due to the storm. * Pack a proper footcare kit (blister bandages, needle, moleskin, little folding scissors [useful for other things, too]). * If traveling solo, use spray sun screen rather than lotion--easier to hit those hard-to-reach spots. * Buy a reliable hand-held battery-operated personal fan outside the park--mine pumped out some serious wind and it was a lifesaver during the worst of the heat/humidity. Plus the kids in line around me loved getting a surprise gust of wind. :) * Pack a tiny umbrella rather than a poncho--I found that I preferred carrying that, or just getting a little wet, to pulling on a piece of plastic. It was so humid and stiffing under it that I ended up more wet from sweat than rain.

[@rooftopvoter3015]

It was so humid and stiffing under it that I ended up more wet from sweat than rain. Susan you have to toughen up if you want to do the theme parks.

[@sugetoosty1685]

brilliant idea on the meds, I've been through a natural disaster and unexpected trip delays- it's definitely safer to have extras on-hand!

[@mistressluckykitty]

A great hack that I learned from a cast member on my last trip involves souvenirs and getting them to your Resort and eventually home. Intead of lugging that bag of souvenirs around with you all day while at the park, you can have that package sent directly to your Resort from that store. You fill out a claim check, and as long as your departure day is more than 2 days away you can pick up that package with the souvenirs you purchased at a kiosk inside your Resorts souvenir shop. Then, once you're ready to leave for home, you can have actually have all of those items shipped by Disney to your home for a very reasonable fee. I filled up two giant boxes of stuff, and had it shipped back to California, for $20 a box. The reason it was so inexpensive is because there is a limit to the fee that they can charge you. They also wrap up any fragile items so that they don't get damaged in shipping. If anything does get damaged during shipping Disney will replace it. I had purchased coffee mugs for all my co-workers along with some other items, and everything arrived safely and right to my door. I didn't have to worry about exceeding the weight limit on my luggage for the flight home, which was a huge Plus.

[@DFBGuide]

Love this tip! I use this service all the time. Actually just included it in a voiceover we're doing for a video coming up this weekend or next week!

[@beckyjo2914]

Another hack: bring multiple pairs of sneakers so that if you end up getting blisters at all you can switch them. Also bring moleskin sheets to wrap or cover blisters. I thought I bought the most comfortable pair of nikes before my trip last year and they ended up not being wide enough for my little duck feet, luckily I had my second choice sneakers from 7th grade all lined up and ready to go and my pinky toe was wrapped in moleskin the rest of the week

[@sugetoosty1685]

Yes on the moleskin!

[@barbaragarnar9639]

This video was the best!! Thank you SO much! Just got back from Disney and would have had NO idea about the water- that was life changing, not paying for water bottles constantly! My kids tend to overheat really easily, so we were constantly grabbing ice water for free, and we travelled through the stores in Main Street to save time and keep them cool. We also had 2 water spray fans break that, thanks to seeing you video, we knew to ask to have replaced and they did with no problem. Also brought the sharpie for character visits. Started the park from the back on our last day and got to ride Splash Mountain 3 times in a row with no wait. The whole time we kept saying how great and helpful this video was! You made our trip so much easier!

[@stillblessed77]

Take a filtered water bottle to dump the free water in that you can get. Sometimes the water tastes a bit funny so the water filter solves the problem!

[@mariannej8454]

Taking screenshots of My Disney Experience app is a great hack! Not only does using the app in WDW parks drain my phone battery as you mentioned, it also will not work because the Wi-Fi signal is low.

[@mwmotorsports]

I started using the Fuel Rod portable chargers while in the parks. It's $30 for the initial purchase but after that you can exchange a dead pack for a freshly charged one from machines located throughout the parks. And you get to keep them for home use as well. They are rechargeable power packs to keep your phone or tablets fresh on the go. It's been a godsend on our past trips.

[@FCAVipers]

Yes, Fuel Rods are great. We bought one in the park for $30 then learned you can buy them online for $20 plus $5 shipping, thus saving $5 (or more, depending on how many you buy) as long as you order with enough time before you're heading to the parks. But they really are a godsend, at the parks and any other travel you do. :-)

[@ComicContent2002]

This channel really is great. The videos are done so professionally and the information is so reliable and accurate.

[@TerrenceMarie]

Tip for Soarin! If you are scared of heights and ride in the back and the dangling feet will help u bring urself back to earth. I was so terrified heights when I went. I was only 9. The feet helped me TONS and I still had alot of fun bc it's such a beautiful ride.

[@braedendrescher1115]

Hey guys! Big DFB fan here, was wondering if you guys could do an episode about the water parks! Going there pretty soon and am curious about the food options! Thanks guys (:

[@jordynnell5096]

Braeden Drescher I second this!!

[@ChemistryTalkwithDan]

Something else to add about travel agents is that you don't pay extra for them. Disney includes the price of a travel agent in the packages so if you don't use an agent you are technically paying for something that you're not using. A travel agent is especially helpful for the special offers because when they are announced your agent should check them out without you needing to say anything, and if the offer saves you money they can switch things over for you. Even if you don't go through a travel agency at least use the Disney travel agents because they often have access to offers that are not online. One time I booked a trip with us staying at a value resort, and when I called to confirm the reservation the agent was able to get us into a moderate resort for the same price. It was awesome!

[@natalieryan1499]

Not trying to brag or anything like that just to saying that our families travel agent is my moms best friend since preschool

[@lou-annewilliams6074]

One thing about travel agents if you use one they have to make any changes or cancellations. For some that's great others a pain

[@alexisphil]

Going to Disney in 2019. Haven't been since 2009! Your videos are a huge help!

[@rooftopvoter3015]

I take it you 2nd mortgaged your house to pay for the trip?

[@misafreak]

Last video im watching before my travel. Sunday, Magic Kingdom! Awesome tips

[@oliviamickens4898]

I like the idea of buying souvenirs ahead of time they’re way cheaper and if u have kids , just keep them in a book bag (with the receipt so the staff knows u bought them) and give it to them at random times thru the day so they feel like you really bought them something in the excitement of the moment :)

[@DaniGyrl82]

I usually have a large backpack whenever we go. The night before we freeze several 8oz water bottles and grapes (yum!!) And we pack small Tupperware with our sandwiches, frozen bottled water and grapes...the frozen items keep our sandwiches cold and fresh. We bring a lot of those small frozen water bottles actually. And we bring flavor packets (koolaid or crystal lite, etc) so as the bottle melts we have ice cold water and can flavor it if we want...instead of sticky juices that make us more thirsty. We always have cookies and chips too. Before we started staying on site and taking advantage of the dining plan, we made sure we had foods of our own in the parks to avoid spending a lot of money on food while there.

[@alexandriahardy8977]

Just a thought here, but if you are one to plan your trip out down to the times you breathe you might want to consider packing flip flops for the water rides instead of wearing your tennis shoes. If you bring a bag, or something to put them in while you're riding, you can switch to your flip flops and never have to worry about your shoes being wet. Just wear them till your feet dry, or bring a towel and dry them off when you change!

[@bethrocity]

hahaha - "down to the times you breathe" love it

[@intothevoid7062]

A good hack we have found is going to a water park after it rains. When it rains most people leave the park, however if you try to stick around you can get on rides with massively reduced wait times. Though a point to note is that the parks do completely shut if there is a bad thunderstorm (most of the storms when we have travelled just blow off after an hour or so).

[@christinejohansen8267]

One thing you forgot: Disney now charges for packages. 5 dollars per package, so please be careful when ordering from Amazon, because they will break up your packages and you will be charged per piece.

[@ninaj9601]

Christine Johansen Thank you for the tip!!!😋

[@chrissy3083]

I wonder if you could use amazon locker?

[@natashayc]

Yes, that changed sometime between 2016 and 2017, because I got deliveries both trips and the $5 charge showed up for the first time in 2017. I just looked up Amazon Locker locations, and they are typically at 7-Elevens or Whole Foods, which aren’t on Disney property. If you have a rental car, you could go pick it up before going to the hotel. But then by that point, you might as well be stopping at a grocery store instead of having something shipped.

[@ingridmasogayo3626]

My bill was $50 (which they waived), Taking an uber to wal mart is cheaper!

[@dianabadger2493]

@@ingridmasogayo3626 how did you get it waived?

[@mrmj30]

Haven’t watched the video because I’m in school but I wanted to let you guys know that I’m going to WDW in April and your videos are the reason I’m prepared.

[@ComicContent2002]

Mark Miller glad to hear. It really is a great channel

[@TheAryaShow]

Mark Miller ME TOO

[@nikkipenilla6652]

Same!!

[@lahleesi6573]

Me too😁

[@horeageorgian7766]

Now we are all a lot better informed. Thanks, we all needed to know.

[@bxhamm01]

I never hear anyone talk about this but we had this happen so I know it works. If you buy a Disney poncho and the weather shreds the poncho (we were there during a tropical storm), shops will replace the poncho for free. We save ponchos and reuse them and, even though the ponchos were older, they replaced them when they ripped. I know Disney ponchos are expensive but this is pretty cool.

[@caroleezekiel6000]

bxhamm01 thanks, I did not know that. We have several, and have had them for years. One ripped, and I taped it. Not sure if I still have I. I need to check, since we're going back in a few months.

[@MrYoonKim]

Hey! Always love your videos. My Tip below. During my stay (August, HOT) I froze 8 bottles of water for the next day. Placed them in a plastic bag within my backpack. Water was iced and ice cold ALL DAY!

[@MyLady22]

That’s great if your resort has a freezer but most of them don’t have a freezer and the newly refurbished ones definitely don’t have freezers.

[@butterflyforeve]

Or if you don't stay at a resort. I always rent a house and pay half what it cost to stay at a resort.

[@evanlongo7589]

ha my grandmother always used to do this but it would never melt in her cooler so we just were trying to suck 3 drops of water out of the frozen bottles. it was frustrating. haha.

[@scotthouston4714]

Well if any of you like the outdoors. The cabins in Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds has a full size fridge with automatic icemaker. The bad part is. Since Fort Wilderness is very big you would need to add in the expense of renting a golf cart or be at the mercy of the internal buses that loop around the grounds.

[@priscillaramirez8218]

I’m going in August I did not know Disney world would let you bring water bottles ???

[@maryannadkins2705]

Okay, this sounds like I am a cheapskate....I mail down a package to the resort. I fill it with fruit snacks, cereal boxes, glow necklaces, first aid kit, portable snacks and gum. Yes, gum. Not sold in Disney. If we are going during Halloween, the gel clings will help decorate your resort window (and be able to find it, too). Dangnabbit, now I want to plan a trip.

[@caseymoran6628]

Omg I'm so inspired!

[@vinortez5715]

Mary you're not a cheapskate, it isnt cheap to go to Disney.

[@joshuawells4842]

Hooked on this channel, so informative

[@samstevenson9410]

I've found that early May is a good time to go too. It's right after the college Spring Break rush and before schools get out for the year. It's really only a two week window, but definitely consider it if you're able to!

[@jakemangano7804]

My thing for water is always bring a camelback. The one that I have it basically a regular back pack with a 3 liter sack that I fill up every morning with ice and as it melts throughout the day you get cold water and it keeps you cool because the ice is sitting on your back.

[@whome718]

I make my fast pass plans for the day my phone screensaver! it seems a little extra but it’s so nice to just click my home button and see where I’m going next!

[@lisabarnby965]

Love your vlog. Not sure if anyone mentioned this, it's nothing incredibly novel, but there are a lot of great places to take breaks. One of my favorites is the play area in the Dumbo line. It's dark, great a/c, plenty of seating, and the kids love it. My 4 year old likes this better than the ride itself. I sit there in the cold and dark (I find it very peaceful), have a snack, and re-organize my backpack.

[@breezamarron9004]

My family and I go religiously, so here's my tips: -Put everything you're going to wear in large ziplock bags, then label it Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, etc.Then put the dirty clothes back in those bags when done. Avoid stuffing everything into your suit case and it not fitting. -If you have kids, best time to go is when they're 5. why? they can somewhat remember the trip later on in life. Most likely won't need a stroller. Tall enough for most rides. Most likely won't need a nap. - For birthdays and other gift giving holidays, ask for disney gift cards. use those for souvenirs, ears, extra spending. -Animal Kingdom is a half day attraction if you don't have kids. DONT fight me on this lol. After Animal Kingdom, try checking out Disney Springs or Hotel hop on the monorail. -Fast passes are your best friends on this trip. -Best time to avoid lines? during big parades/light shows or an hour before closing.

[@ericholmes3363]

good tips but i feel like 5 is the best age for a first time trip not just all the time

[@lauragwillim1055]

Bree Zamarrón i feel the same about animal kingdom. Even with my son at age 12 we didn’t spend the day there. Lots of little kid stuff and not enough roller coasters/rides for us. Ate some good food at Yak and Yeti

[@Melina_Shadow]

Shopping and getting things at the park is part of the magic. We planned our last/first trip ourselves and had a great time. I watched a ton of KZbin videos and looked up a ton of blogs and learned everything myself. We will be going this November and I will be planning myself again.

[@austinschlepp4417]

Wear shorts with multiple pockets. I tried to have wallet, cameras, keys and stuff for the family in my exercise shorts and lost everything on some rides. Luckily cast members found everything. In case you lose items during the day you should keep track of the order you rode rides.

[@michaeljohnaragon9316]

13:00 the last time I was at Disneyworld, I remember it was a super sunny day and I bought some awesome aviator glasses at one of the stores and I failed to keep my receipt for those glasses. But, they ended up breaking the next day and I went back to the store to see if I can buy a new pair and the service was so kind that they looked up my purchase from my magicband and they immediately replaced them for free.

[@landonwolf]

Wear athletic (non-cotton) socks! They are made to keep the sweat away so your feet will stay dry. My wife and I wore them on a 2 day trip to Disneyland, everyone else's feet in our party were sore and tired but we could have gone for another 2 days, no problem! It also helps on rides like Splash Mountain where you can walk out with your shoes soaking wet but your feet are totally dry! They're available online or at any sporting good store.

[@RobSchipperennl]

I have a question / suggestion for a next video: Best breakfast options in Disney Springs. Especially for people staying in the Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels this could be super interesting.

[@Ranger2306]

This was so useful!!! Watching your videos has not only helped me be more excited for going to WDW this year but also, way more prepared!! Thanks!! :) :)

[@paulcarson1802]

The rider switch service has changed quite a bit over the years. We just went to Disney World the 1st week of January 2019 and they will no longer let you do a rider switch if a child doesn't want to ride. You have to have a child that is too short to ride. We were told that at all 4 parks by several different cast members. Also, one thing we did this visit that saved us a ton of money was we went to Wal Mart in Orlando and bought large plastic water bottles. We also bought 11 gallons of water and each night we filled up all of the water bottles, put them in the fridge and took them into the park each day. We put a gallon of water in the bottom of our stroller and that was always plenty to get us through the day. If going during the summer, I could see easily going through 2, if not 3, gallons. We had 3 adults and 4 kids so it was a must for us.

[@alexkadin7200]

Love your videos! One thing you didn’t mention that is a HUUGE benefit and reason to buy an annual pass for at least one person in the party. YOU GET PHOTOPASS FOR FREE! can edit and add borders and stickers for months after and make great souvenirs. Just make sure whomever has the annual pass is the one who gets their magic band scanned. Includes all ride photos and secrets special videos from rides and the great “magic” photos where they insert characters

[@sealyt4836]

She did. 2:33

[@ElderEmo06]

I’ve never been, have always wanted to go. This channel is perfect for planning my first trip!!

[@rooftopvoter3015]

Then you need to live a little. Get trampled, wait in long lines, eat greasy foods, memories after that.

[@chiefskippy00]

Thanks for a good video with good audio and not having 5min of intro garbage and scattered info before getting to the content. Well done!

[@lizciampa]

That trick about dollar store glow sticks worked perfectly. My kids were completely entertained by those.

[@buckylovesplums_6731]

They don't last long

[@naseemsyed9383]

Hi..I have seen your video during our Disney planning and 7.10 you mentioned that we can go at the security check on the other side of the table if the line is at one side. I used that trick at magic kingdom park during our trip. Line is at one end and I directly went on the other side of the table. The people assisting the queue was also mentioning that the bags will be checked on both sides. While I'm heading to the security my husband warned me that the line is here. I replied we can go on both the sides and before placing my bag at the table I checked with the security person can I place my bag. He said yes and took my bag immediately for checking. Mean while one lady in the queue started yelling at my husband that we are very rude people to bypass the queue, when he said it both side of the table , she says she should get the first chance to go at the other side not we. She didn't stop there and said many things. My husband was very upset on me that I didn't listen to him and went forward. Looking at us the security person asked " are you ok madam" , I told him I'm ok but there is a confusion about the queue. He said loudly that she is good, she is fine. When I looked at her she seriously said "Go Go". We never cut the queue. I moved forward since I watched this video.This left a bad experience and magic kingdom stays in our mind for wrong reasons. I'm just sharing that no one should experience this using this hack.

[@imaQTPi5]

Barbie Princess my mom world for Disney World for 32 years. We have been there a lot. I have to say I don’t want to go back because people are so rude. I do not consider making use of both sides of the line rude. It is there for everyone. Nothing was stopping that woman. She should have asked herself why she didn’t smarten up.

[@annabelleletizia1750]

Hey! I love your videos, they are so helpful! I’m not sure you mentioned single-riders lines. This obviously doesn’t work for younger kids, but it’s a great time-saver. I went to animal kingdom two years ago with my family of four, and we wanted to go on Expedition Everest. Unfortunately, the line was very long (like always lol) and we didn’t have a Fastpass. Luckily, we noticed a sign for a single rider line, and there was no one in it!! I went on the die six times in a row while have to wait in line for five minutes at most! Our party did not get to sit together obviously, but we were able to go on the ride multiple times without waiting in line! It was awesome!!!

[@JasmineLeeamazing]

Annabelle Letizia great tip! For parties of adults this is very useful!

[@maddie5329]

We did this for splash mountain and rode like 5 times in a row

[@victoriaharris3113]

I went back and forth between test track (single rider) and soarin doing this for like 4 hours

[@samanthaingersoll2356]

Can you make a video on packing/packing lists? :)

[@Jimbodisfan]

I used to get on the WDW Railroad upon entering Magic Kingdom for the very first time on a trip, to get an overview of the park.

[@rooftopvoter3015]

I do the same thing and I call it a recon mission

[@franciswolin595]

THANK YOU FOR THE CONNECTED SHOPS! I'm very sun sensitive and have to wear SPF shirts and carry a parasol in addition to standard sunscreen protocol whenever I go to Disney World and not having to be in the sun whenever I first enter the magic Kingdom sounds absolutely magical!

[@carriel3054]

Buy a multi pack of disposable ponchos from a camping supply store. Just bring one into the park for each member of your party. If it rains, it's usually for only a short period in the afternoon, and I personally don't like carrying around a wet poncho for the rest of the day, so I toss mine when the showers are over. You can also use it on Splash Mountain to stay dry, or on the seat of a water ride so your bottom doesn't get wet. If that feels wasteful to you, offset that by bringing a refillable water bottle and foregoing plastic, refusing plastic straws, and choosing snacks that do not come in plastic packaging.

[@thecowgirl56744]

I called Disney to adjust my reservation and while we were on the phone she looked for a room discount without even having to ask! she was so nice and very helpful!

[@jackg.7745]

The baby swap option is the best. A few years back...during the official opening of Rockin Rollercoaster to be exact. I was lucky enough to meet Joe Perry of Aerosmith and his young son in the baby swap area of Dinosaur in Animal Kingdom. The band was at WDW for the grand opening. I didn’t let on that I knew who he was and I think it made him more comfortable and talkative. We spoke for about 10 minuets and he was a really nice guy. We rode the same ride but our ride photo didn’t come out. I guess Disney stroked it so people wouldn’t freak out. Anyway...Use the baby swap option if you need to because you never know who you might meet.

[@livingoutloud77]

Jack G. I

[@The_LadyAJ]

My hack is less of a hack and more just a good idea. First, my family usually travels with just four people total, and all of us are adults. Last time we went to Disney, we took a nap every single day. We'd go to one park, head back to the hotel at noon, take an hour nap, and head to a different park for the rest of the night. It was great, cause we missed the most crowded, hottest part of the day, and after the nap we all felt like we were human again. We did the same at Universal. It really changed our trip for the better to have that extra bit of sleep and downtime in the middle of each day.

[@HeidiSKulesh]

Fantastic job, AJ - Lots of GREAT tips there! I have also had fantastic experiences with Garden Grocer, always did while staying DVC. I have not done Soarin'' since it changed to around the WORLD, but have heard that in addition to asking for front row to avoid feet, you should ask for middle (Section B maybe?) to avoid what I hear is some pretty horrible distortion (curving) on the sides of the screen. I have some laundry tips - I bring either a nylon or plastic garbage bag for laundry - helps keep it in 1 place, and separates dirty from clean clothes. I also throw some scented dryer sheets (if you can use scented) in the bag, and in my suitcase to keep things fresh. I can then use them to do laundry at WDW, and I keep them in suitcases between trips for the nice smell. :) I also love to pack moleskin for blisters - easier to apply, and personally better for those "blistery areas" that may develop. I also advise to bring a basic "health kit" - cough medicine, ibuprofen, etc, or get them delivered with groceries. Have paid Disney prices when I got a cold - was NOT fun!!

[@DFBGuide]

Great tips, Heidi!!

[@jennifermurray8995]

In certain instances Disney will replace broken items even after you have left the park, and you are back home. This happened to us this year. I called and explained what happened, they sent me a replacement.

[@DFBGuide]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@bethanystockman9380]

I've rented a stroller and will be renting a double stroller from Kingdom Stroller for my trip in December

[@FiolettaArts]

Your tips are so helpful. I’m going with my mom in two weeks. I’ll be making a list what to do at Disney based on your videos! Your videos are so organized and helpful!

[@jmajette2]

On my last WDW trip in 2005, I went late September into early October. It was during a free dining event. I never saw the parks so crowded for that time of the year. Even the food court at my resort was busier than usual. For that very reason, I deliberately chose to avoid free dining events when booking my upcoming WDW vacation. That was my experience. It may not necessarily be yours. Great tips! Thank you.

[@AzraelThanatos]

Not Disney specific, but if you are going to be using a backpack, you can normally stop at outdoors outfitter type stores and ask about getting it adjusted properly for you. While you might not realize it, or at first quite feel it, they know how to adjust the packs to be best carried for you. Less issues and other things, and they can normally also point out ones that aren't going to fall apart on you... I've carried several things with me that I need one, get them adjusted pretty much every time I get a new one that isn't exactly the same as the prior one and I can straight up adjust it to the exact same positions. For Disney and other places where you would be carrying it around...I even take my nephews and niece with their school bags for the same reason. All you might have to do is listen to a bit of suggestions for camping supplies and the like at the same time, which can be its own fun, but the better fit of the pack is worth it. Also, while ice water is free around the park, one of the good things to have is a nice sized refillable bottle, one of the insulated metal ones with a strap is a great choice for this kind of thing. You can fill it up with the free water and having the bottle means you can get some of the smaller powdered drink pouches to bring with you. The major thing I've dealt with at several parks, including Disney, is sweating out some of the essentials and having something like gatorade powder to dump into the bottle and shake up is something that will help you deal with the day better because it's not just water that you're losing in the sweat, but stuff your body needs and spending a buck for a bunch of those packs is cheap and easy, and you'll end the day feeling a whole lot better. This is even more of something useful if you are from a more temperate region of the country as you tend to not be used to the heat if you're there during the normal vacation times. Plus, while water is a great thing, it does wear on you if your stuck with it a lot, and the packets are dirt cheap...

[@ericaschmerica10]

With strollers, there are tons of stroller rental places in Orlando. You can rent a really nice BOB stroller for $75 and have it delivered to your resort. At the end of the week, you leave it right where you find it. It was a lifesaver and we didn't have to use the hard plastic disney strollers.

[@colonelpotter]

I'm a Starbucks Shift Supervisor and the ones in the parks are Licensed stores witch do not accept rewards and the Starbucks in Disney springs are Corporate ones and will accept rewards, both will accept your Starbucks Card.

[@sadie5136]

The best travel agent EVER is Its A Small World Adventure by Donna Snow! We got major discount and some extra little items shipped to us. Its so amazing and helpful!

[@mrblah9107]

As a former friend of Pluto 😉 they do take a break every 20-30 mins. 20 in the summer, possibly 30 in the winter. However, they only take about a 5 minute break before they come back out unless it’s lunch time or last set of the day. So stay in line unless you know it’s about to be parade time or the end of the day 😃

[@2371mishka]

My family goes every year for thanksgiving and it is always such a great time. Never super busy or over crowded. Also weather is great never too hot; nights can get cold so bring a light jacket. This is also a great time to go cause they are normally just bringing out the Christmas stuff so you can et first cracking at those awesome Disney gifts. Speaking of gifts, always use the shop Disney app while looking at stuff you wanna buy cause the app allows you to check the bar code and make sure you aren't over paying for something you can buy at home. Happy Traveling everyone!!!

[@heatherlang428]

All great advice! We are taking my 1 year old son to Disney in October(he will be almost 2 by then). I like the idea of the rider switch and I was so happy to learn about the baby care centers. That’s amazing! We live in Atlanta so we will be driving, but I still like the idea of shipping items ahead of time so we don’t overload the car. And then we can just leave the stuff there. Love your videos always such great tips!!

[@scotthouston4714]

Well maybe we will see you there. My Mom and me are going in Oct. The later part of Oct. So that we can experience two holidays down there. We will be staying at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds.

[@JerryGeorge1966]

So glad I watched this video. I checked the special offers on the bottom of the page and was able to apply it to our reservation. It saved me $136. More money for souvenirs. :) THANK YOU!

[@taterhoffman]

I'm planning a WDW vacation for my family for this August. Thanks to your tip about special offers, I was able to call WDW and apply an offer to the trip. I saved $279!!! Thanks AJ!!

[@michaelnorton148]

In Walt Disney World I went to eat. Found a Register with a huge line on the right. So I started the left. There was a HUGE moan from the right. I turned to them and said, "So get behind me !!! ". NOBODY moved !!!!!

[@T3hXinro]

I love that tip, but I'm worried that if I actually use it, I might die of karmic payback!

[@maddoxjake]

I've been in this situation before, I usually stand to the back and invite people in front of me to fill in the empty side ahead of me. Same at the supermarket when a new lane opens, unless they're already unloading their cart.

[@penelopepitstop762]

I was wondering about that too! Seems like doing that would make a lot of people mad. I think if there is only one cast member standing there then the proper thing to do would be to wait in line, but I've seen where they have 2 cast members working at the same station.

[@kathkwilts]

Michael Norton if you snooze, you lose... I don’t even feel bad... if other people in line are ignorant or not paying attention, I just bypass them...

[@The2firebirds]

They all must have been polite Canadians.

[@notryland1]

Once you’ve used your three fast passes for the day, check the fast passes that are available every time you use one. You can oftentimes get a fast pass for the same ride right after you get off of it. We rode Rock N Rollercoaster 6 times in a row because I was checking for fast passes while I was in the fast pass line.

[@kat.labs1018]

Would you recommend I bring my refillable water bottle? Are there refill stations/water fountains in the parks?

[@texasfan54]

The tip bout the strollers is on point, bring your own. Last time I went to Disney, I had my nephew with me and he was bout 4 and sometimes he didn't want to walk and I wasn't bout to carry him the whole time or I wasn't bout to rent a stroller. Bringing our own saved money and saved my arms lol

[@sarajones8517]

Satu'li Canteen in Pandora (Animal Kingdom) is the best place to order from the kid's menu. The menu is really similar to the adult menu but WAY cheape so you can save money for dessert! The Blueberry Cheesecake Mousse is STUNNING and so delicious! The chocolate mousse is also really good especially if you love chocolate but the Blueberry one is where it's at!

[@shalaew]

Not only discounts on the websites but check with local banks and check with company's that you work with!!!! I work for Citi bank and they have FANTASTIC discounts on airlines, car rentals and yes even up to 50 percent off Disney world park tickets!!!!

[@iamswell]

I have cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that makes me somewhat heat intolerant, and requires me to rest roughly at least 30 minutes every 3 or 4 hours. The First Aid/Baby Care stations have little rooms for nursing mothers that they let me use to rest. I had a towel and backpack, and just laid down on the floor and rested for a little while. They also have this in Universal. The times I have done this there was never anyone else there, so I wasn't taking up any space that a nursing mother needed, and it allowed me to recharge without going back to the hotel.

[@ashbee7669]

i know that people are aloud to visit different resorts and hotels, and a great idea if anyone needs regular house necessities such as diapers, food, etc. is to go visit fort wilderness lodge and campground. they have 2 different convenient stores in the resort with cheap things that people may forget to bring or they need a little extra, this is a great little hack.

[@josephmacintyre9174]

Once I became hip enough to realize a "hack" meant it was a travel tip...I enojoyed the video & it's good info Thank you very much...

[@samanthabest8926]

Enojoyed...............:::::::::

[@GlutenFreeRennFairy]

They even replaced a bag I had a year later. It ripped a few days after purchase, but I didn't make it back to the parks till the next year. They found it and replaced it for me without a question. It was really nice of them.

[@carleighdawn4961]

little tip for water as well, many starbucks locations have a trenta sized cup (extra large) and you can usually get an ice water for free. just ask for a trenta ice water ! my sister and i did this our whole trip :)

[@ksm13706]

My mom and i went to Orlando in April (14 to the 22) and it wasn't that bad at all, there where alot of people out (obviously lol) but it wasn't as bad as going there in June. So I definitely recommend heading down there in April too! ^-^

[@maddieclarke258]

Kikibay _bee I really like going in April too. It's warm enough that you feel like it's a summer vacation, but not so hot that you can't enjoy yourself and the crowds aren't really as bad as everyone says they are

[@ksm13706]

maddie clarke Right isn't wonderful around that time?! We didnt go to Disney that year but we did go to Universal (crowd wise id say its the same as disney) and it was wonderful, i was so not stressed out there it was fantastic! xD

[@goodmorninguser]

Yes, late April is a decent time! Early April is usually pretty busy because of Spring Breaks but it usually will die down a little towards the end of the month.

[@coricross682]

Heading down there this April myself. Hoping for some great weather

[@ksm13706]

Cori Cross Me too! The weather was fantastic last year, so fingers crossed for this year! 🤞🤞

[@alisonkelly1986]

I think your blog/channel does an excellent job- information that is precise, correct and presented in a way that it is easy to digest. I will be recommending it to anyone who is looking to travel to Disney. Thanks-

[@DJ118USMC]

2:11 - Phhhfffff! I'm from Arizona I welcome the rain! Don't need no stinkin panchos or umbrellas. :P

[@starbruner7194]

DJ118USMC OMG same! I'm from AZ too!

[@deb220706]

I'm from Ireland, i was born in the rain.

[@TheRaveyBabyy]

Las vegas here lol i wouldn't mind

[@13meli55a]

I don’t know what the rain is like where you’re from, but in Orlando, your clothing and shoes will be wet if you go in the rain. Like as if you stepped in a shower. That’s why the ponchos are so expensive.

[@theazureknight8975]

DJ118USMC Lucky. My Chicagoan snow survival skills are useless in Disney.

[@mkklaus6892]

Unless you are a group of big eaters, want to spend lots of time at character meals instead of in the parks, and only will be eating the most expensive items; the dining plans have never worked for us. We always save hundreds over buying dining. Plus we get a deal on rooms which you can't do if you get the free dining. Nothing is free you pay one way or the other.

[@NismoakaNismovsky]

Exactly. "Free dining" in "Disney language" means "park tickets and hotel reservations at full price", which can actually make worse deal than to get discounted room with full-priced Dining Plan (if you really need one).

[@lauragwillim1055]

Mk Klaus I’m with you on that one. It’s too much food for me and my family. Did it once but never again.

[@CP-sm9nb]

Rider's Swap was a life saver when I was at Disney last time!

[@mrssilvas]

One thing I wished I had on my last Disney trip was a foot massager. So I have decided to order one from Amazon and have it delivered to my room before I arrive for my next trip. Your feet get exhausted after so much walking!