5 Tips for Managing Disney-itis!

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100% Recommended

Nicole Newfield

Mahtomedi, MN
Magic Coordinator & Travel Specialist

Walking down Main Street with the scent of Magic in the air...is there anything better?!  Let me help get you into that moment and so many more, where your days are full of fun and memories to last a lifetime!  I love planning and will design an i...

We’ve got your trip booked, your initial steps done with getting your My Disney Experience account set up and your park pass reservations secured, and you are so excited!  It can be hard to wait for the trip to finally arrive, but embrace the anticipation-it really does add to the fun and excitement of the trip!  Here are 5 ways to make the most of the days leading up to your special vacation!


1) Countdown:  Who doesn’t love a good countdown?!  Search Disney countdown blocks on Etsy and you will see some great options!Other families have loved making paper chains-you could make one for the weeks at first.  Then as you get down to that final week or two, you could make a smaller one to represent the days!


2) Gifts: Birthdays or holidays of any kind coming up?  Relatives who are looking for gift ideas can do Disney gift cards so the kids (or you!) can pick out souvenirs, or they can gift a pair of comfy mouse ears from Etsy, or a fun Disney outfit or toy from Shop Disney.  Disney shirts are so fun for everyone and there are tons of options on Amazon, at Target, on Etsy, or on Shop Disney.  A family photo frame is also an amazing gift.  Carry-on size suitcases are easy for kids to wheel in the airport.  Another great idea is a lightweight backpack for them or you to wear in the parks.  It can be convenient for each child to have a small backpack so 1 parent does not end up toting 1 heavy bag!  Comfy tennis shoes or sports sandals like Tevas (which also come in handy for rainy park days or for water rides) are also super handy to have ahead of time to begin breaking in!  


3) Plan Snacks & Dining:  This can be so much fun!  Disney has so much more to offer than just standard theme park food-there are tons  of unique and amazing offerings!  Check out table service, quick service, snack options, as well as bar and lounge locations.  You can read reviews, listen to podcasts, or watch youtube video clips-whichever way is the most fun for you!  When you stay on property, you can make your table service dining reservations 60 days ahead of your check-in day, for the duration of your trip (up to 10 days).  I have tips and information on dining options for clients to help with this process!


4) Look into the EPCOT festival that is happening during your trip dates: There is a festival throughout most of the year at EPCOT!  Explore articles (such as from the Disney Parks Blog), and youtube videos on the festival to find out more about the special food booths, decor, and entertainment offered!


5) Plan for your Resort Time:  Down-time at your resort is something everyone will look forward to!  We like to plan for a break after lunch at the resort in the air conditioning to rest and rejuvenate.  This strategy can work great after you have hit the parks for early park admission.  Then after the break you can hit the parks with renewed energy for dinner and evening activities.  You can also build pool time in, during an early afternoon break, or on some of your evenings.  Depending on the length of your trip, you may want to schedule a rest day at the resort.


What is your favorite tip for managing Disney-itis as you wait for your trip to arrive?!

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