Walt Disney World: Know Before You Go
Slinky Dog Dash
Smart planning tips to set your spring and summer trip up for success
Now that the holidays are wrapping up, it’s officially time to start talking strategy — especially if you’re thinking about Spring Break or summer travel to Walt Disney World. These seasons bring crowds, higher demand, and more moving parts, which means knowing the little things ahead of time can make a big difference in how smooth (or stressful) your trip feels.
Below are some of the most helpful “know before you go” tips — the ones many guests don’t think about until they’re already in the parks.
Master the My Disney Experience App (Before You Arrive)
The My Disney Experience app is the backbone of your Disney vacation.
Mobile Ordering (A Quick Guide)
Most Quick-Service restaurants use mobile ordering
Order in the app, select an arrival window, and tap “I’m Here” when you arrive
Skip the physical line and pick up your food when it’s ready
Pro tip: Place mobile orders before peak meal times to lock in earlier pickup windows
Mobile Checkout While Shopping
Many popular stores now offer mobile checkout through the app
This works at locations like World of Disney at Disney Springs and The Emporium at Magic Kingdom
Scan your items, pay in the app, and show your receipt at the exit
This is a huge time-saver, especially during busy evenings and holidays
Your Phone Is Your Lifeline — Bring a Reliable Charger
At Disney, your phone is:
Your park ticket
Your dining plan tracker
Your photo hub
Your park map and show guide
A portable battery pack is not optional — it’s essential. FuelRod stations are available, but bringing your own trusted charger will save time and frustration.
Disney’s Pop Century
Resort Door & Window Decorating Is More Popular Than You Think
If you’re staying at a Value or Moderate Resort, decorating your door or window is extremely common — especially during school breaks and holidays.
You’ll see this often at resorts like:
Disney's Pop Century Resort
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Disney's Port Orleans Riverside
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort (non-tower rooms)
Popular decorations include:
Window clings
Battery-powered lights
Magnetic door décor
Personalized name signs for kids
Not only does it add fun, it also makes your room easier to find after a long park day.
Have a Simple Laundry Plan
Most Disney resorts have laundry facilities, which can be a lifesaver on longer trips.
Bring:
A few laundry pods
A collapsible laundry bag
It helps manage kids’ clothes, cuts down on overpacking, and keeps suitcases lighter for souvenirs.
Plan for Temperature Swings
Florida weather can be unpredictable — especially in spring.
Mornings and evenings can be cool
Indoor attractions and nighttime shows often feel chilly
A lightweight jacket or hoodie for each family member is a smart move.
Ship Souvenirs Home (Don’t Pack Them)
Many Disney stores offer package shipping right from the register.
This is especially helpful for:
Lightsabers
Large plush items
Fragile souvenirs
It keeps luggage manageable and avoids the stress of packing breakables.
Savi’s Workshop - Build a Lightsaber
Rider Switch Is a Game-Changer for Families
If someone in your group can’t or doesn’t want to ride a particular attraction:
Use Rider Switch
One adult rides first, the other waits with the child
The second adult rides without waiting again
This works beautifully for families with mixed ages.
Early Mornings Matter More Than You Think
The first hour of the day is:
Less crowded
Cooler
More relaxed
Even arriving 30 minutes earlier than the general crowd can dramatically improve your experience.
Check Your Dining Receipts
If you’re using a dining plan:
Your receipt shows remaining meal and snack credits at the bottom
It’s the easiest way to track usage and avoid unused credits at the end of your trip
Did You Know? I Monitor Promotions for You
Here’s something many travelers don’t realize:
If I book your Disney vacation and a better promotion comes out later, I automatically monitor and update your reservation when eligible.
That means:
You don’t have to watch for deals
You don’t have to rebook
You don’t have to spend hours on hold
I handle it — so you get the best possible value without the stress.
Final Pro Tip (The One That Matters Most)
The best Disney strategy? Using a travel advisor who knows Disney.
I’m your back-pocket guide — the one who:
Books your trip
Monitors promotions
Plans strategy
Helps you pivot when plans change
The guide you never knew you needed 😉
So let’s get you booked — and then let’s plan a Disney vacation that actually feels magical.
Spring Break and summer dates are filling fast. Reach out now to get started.
