Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming if you’ve never been (or if it’s been years since your last trip). Disney is constantly changing, updating, and evolving, so knowing the key things to know before your Walt Disney World vacation will help you save time, reduce stress, and get the most value out of the money you’re spending.

These are the most important Walt Disney World tips to know before you go:

1. Park reservations are not necessary for most guests

Disney no longer requires theme park reservations for date-based tickets — but if you have an Annual Pass, you may still need a park reservation depending on the date and time you enter. This is one of the biggest things many first-time Disney World visitors miss. Policies change frequently, so always verify based on your ticket type.

2. Multi Pass and Single Pass (Lightning Lanes) are optional, but extremely helpful

Multi Pass and Single Pass are Disney’s paid systems that help you access shorter waits. You’ll purchase these passes 7 days prior to your vacation if you stay at a Disney Resort or 3 days before if you aren’t staying on Disney property and pre-select up to 3 Lightning Lanes each day you have valid park tickets for MultiPass or up to 2 Single Pass attractions per day.

Some days it’s worth it — some days it isn’t. Crowd levels, seasonality, and park choice matter. (This is something I advise my clients on individually.)

3. Park hopping now begins at 11am

If you have a park hopper ticket, this is important to know. This earlier park hopping window gives you more flexibility when planning your day.

4. Dining reservations open 60 days before arrival

Popular restaurants are competitive — especially character dining. Mark this date. Set reminders. Or work with a travel advisor (me) who will give recommendations and help you with a strategy for reservation day. If you are staying at a Disney property, you can make all of your dining reservations for your vacation (up to 10 days in length) 60 days before your arrival date. If you are staying off property, you can make dining reservations one day at a time 60 days prior to the day you want the reservation.

5. Transportation takes longer than you expect

Walt Disney World Resort is massive. Whether you’re taking the monorail, bus, Skyliner, or boat… give yourself buffer time. Plan 60–90 minutes to travel between locations, especially for time-sensitive dining reservations.

6. Mobile Order will save you time (and sanity)

Use Mobile Order through the My Disney Experience app so your food is ready when you are — instead of standing in line with starving kids (or adults). You can pre-link a credit card to. your account for a quick check out!

7. Florida weather is unpredictable — pack for it

Bring ponchos, portable chargers, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, fans, and refillable water bottles. Weather can change quickly, especially during summer.

Rechargable Mickey shaped fan - click pic for link to Amazon

8. Having a flexible plan makes your trip easier

Disney World is magical — but it’s not a wing-it vacation anymore. A loose, strategic plan makes it easier to pace your day, prioritize favorites, and experience the most without stress.

Final Thoughts + Why Working With a Travel Advisor Matters

A Walt Disney World vacation is a big investment. When you go in prepared, you will enjoy it so much more.

I help families plan smarter Disney vacations with strategies that fit your kids, your travel style, and your budget — so you get more magic and less stress.

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The Top Things You Should Know Before Your Walt Disney World Vacation