Top 5 Park Tips

Wow, just about 1½ years to go if we go in August 2011.



One of the best sources of Disney World information is The DIS Boards, a huge, unofficial Disney parks forum. I read it often, and have compiled this top 5 list based on a few threads about mistakes people have made on their daily trips to the parks.

1. Take care of your feet. If planning to buy new shoes, buy them at least one month in advance (many people swear by Crocs). Take a good walk a few times a week in the weeks leading up to the trip to condition your feet (and your legs) for the parks; you'll be doing a lot of walking, and you may be surprised how unprepared your body is for it. Some prefer to pack 2 pair of park shoes in case one pair just isn't working out. On the trip, pack an extra pair of socks in case yours get wet if it rains. To prevent blisters, I recommend a product called Body Glide, which you can roll on your feet (and thighs, if you like), deodorant-style.



2. Drink water to prevent dehydration. This will be especially important in the Florida heat. There are a few options available. Counter-service restaurants will provide ice and water (not filtered) at no cost. You can also bring a hard-plastic water bottle (with or without a filter) and refill it in the parks if necessary. Some people bring flavour packets to add to their water. Don't drink too much coffee or caffeinated drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.



3. Bring essentials each day. I already mentioned packing an extra pair of socks, but other essentials might include sunscreen, snacks, batteries, ziplock bags (to protect your camera, for snacks and leftovers, or to store a wet cloth). One word of caution is to not load up on too much; you're not going to want to be weighed down all day.



4. Don't think you have to stick together. While I tend to have idyllic notions of everything touring the parks as one big group, the overwhelming consensus is this is a recipe for disaster on many levels. People will want to do different things, one big mob moves very slowly (partially due to lots of waiting on others), and tensions can rise. It's okay to split up for a little while, or even whole days. Some might prefer to just meet up during mid-day breaks or dinner, on certain days or every day, and that's okay.



5. Don't be miserable. This one's pretty direct, but a sour grape can ruin it for everyone (see tip #4). You'll see families that are stressed out and unhappy everywhere; don't be one of them. Relax, have fun, and have consideration for the people you're with. Kids will sometimes dictate the direction the day goes in (see tip #4 again). Mid-day breaks will help with this in a big way. Plans can and will change, and someone will probably tick you off at some point; roll with it. It won't be possible to see everything, but there's a good chance that your first trip to Disney World won't be your last, so don't sweat it.