To keep your suitcase tidy and prevent dirt transfer, use clear bags to store shoes, especially after they've been worn or gotten wet.
Planning
Disney planning tips.
Booking windows, trip rhythm, backup moves, and family-specific decisions.
Use disposable changing mats when using public changing tables in hotels or parks to add an extra layer of protection between your baby and the surface.
Use collapsible sand buckets and toys for beach or sand play, as they are compact for travel and easy for children to use.
Consider packing Yodo minis with a DIY card holder for a portable and engaging activity for children, especially during travel times.
If traveling with children, use a portable potty seat that suctions to the toilet seat; it makes using public restrooms less intimidating for toddlers.
Use reusable travel laundry sheets by adding them directly to the washing machine with clothes; they are effective for stain removal and space-saving.
Take a portable phone charger that can provide multiple full charges and plugs directly into the wall, eliminating the need for an extra charging cable for the power bank.
Use wet bags for packing wet or soiled items like swimsuits or shoes, preventing moisture and dirt from spreading to other belongings in your luggage.
Pack immune support spray for daily use during vacations to help prevent illness, especially when traveling with family.
To save space when packing, use suction storage bags for bulky items like coats or extra clothing, significantly reducing their volume.
Swap your Epcot day to a Sunday if Monday Lightning Lane prices are significantly higher, as this may indicate lower crowds.
Purchase Standby Skipper to help manage Lightning Lane selections and reduce phone time in the parks.
If staying at a Disney hotel, take advantage of the early entry hour to experience popular rides with minimal waits.
If you visit Disneyland Paris expecting it to be exactly like Disneyland in California, you might be disappointed; instead, appreciate it as a unique Disney experience.
Check the Fresh Baked Street Team updates for Mission: Breakout at Hollywood Studios, as the operating status of all three ride vehicles can significantly impact wait times.
When waiting to board your Disney cruise, use the Navigator app to favorite activities so you receive timely notifications once onboard.
If your child is hesitant about kids' clubs, use the Navigator app to stay in contact and reassure them that parents are never too far away.
Book cruises during Marvel Day at Sea, Pixar Day at Sea, Halloween on the High Seas, or Very Merrytime Cruises for unique character meet-and-greets, shows, and seasonal activities.
Consider booking cruises outside of special themed events like Halloween or Christmas if you prefer a traditional Disney Cruise Line experience without heavy holiday overlays.
Consider booking a group tour to Disneyland Paris, as they can sell out quickly.
Visit Pizzafari and Rafiki's Planet Watch early, as both locations and the Bluey experience close earlier than the rest of the park.
Utilize the focus lock feature on the new streaming app to prevent fireworks from disrupting the camera's focus.
Be at the Disneyland gate by 7:30 AM or earlier to be ready for rope drop at 8:00 AM and maximize the first two hours in the park.
Avoid starting your day at 1:00 PM as this is peak crowd time when morning and afternoon guests converge, and popular Lightning Lane selections may be sold out.
Book a Port Adventure like a family bike and snorkel pack in advance for Castaway Cay.
Towels are provided when you get off the tram at Lookout Cay, so you do not need to bring your own.
For an easier time filming on vacation, consider using a phone instead of a larger camera like the Osmo Pocket 3.
Check adjusted operating hours for onboard activities like the Aquaduck and Oceaneer Club, as they can be impacted by island visits where staff may be deployed.
Check in as early as possible, typically 30 days before sailing, to select an earlier arrival time and board sooner.
Pack swimsuits in your carry-on so you can use the pool immediately, as your main luggage may not arrive until closer to sail away.
Complete the health questionnaire as soon as it's emailed on the morning of the cruise to avoid check-in delays.
Connect to the ship's Wi-Fi upon boarding and use the Disney Cruise Line app to favorite activities, check your dining schedule, and ensure reservations align.
Plan your Epcot trip around a festival like Festival of the Arts, Flower and Garden, Food and Wine, or Festival of the Holidays to take advantage of extra food booths, entertainment, and activities.
In more remote areas of Costa Rica during an Adventures by Disney trip, do not put toilet paper in the toilet; use the provided trash can.
Adventures by Disney provides multiple meals and snacks throughout the day on excursions, ensuring you won't go hungry.
When booking a port adventure, check the Navigator app for the specific meeting location, as it can vary (e.g., D Lounge or Buena Vista Theater).
If booking the 'Discover Nassau by Land and Sea' excursion, consider booking only the 'sea' portion, as the land portion was disappointing and did not visit all advertised locations.
Consider booking excursions through the cruise line for guaranteed timely returns, even if independent options might seem more appealing.
To avoid disappointment on port adventures, be aware that itineraries can change, and not all advertised stops may be visited.
Book Lightning Lane selections as early as possible, ideally for the morning, and then modify them to later times if needed.
Consider modifying existing Lightning Lane selections to later times instead of trying to move them to earlier slots.
To maximize your day, book all your Lightning Lane selections for the earliest possible times back-to-back.
Disney hotel guests can make Lightning Lane pre-selections 7 days in advance, while off-property guests can only do so 3 days in advance.
Log into the My Disney Experience app at 7:00 a.m. on your pre-selection day to secure your preferred Lightning Lane times, especially if staying off-property.
Try to secure an early return time for your first Lightning Lane selection, as this allows you to immediately book another one after scanning into your first attraction.
Make advanced dining reservations for character dining 60 days in advance starting at 6:00 a.m. EST, logging in 15-30 minutes early for potentially better availability.
Book tours 60 days in advance, starting at 6:00 a.m. EST, and leverage your Disney hotel stay for an earlier booking window.
If you prefer not to use MagicBands, request Key to the World cards from Guest Services for park entry and charging privileges, which can be easier for children to manage.
Use luggage tags sent by Disney Cruise Line to have your luggage delivered directly to your stateroom.
Book your first three Lightning Lane selections up to 7 days in advance if you have a resort reservation, or 3 days in advance if you do not.