Disney World with Kids: 10 Tips for a Perfect Holiday

Disney World is an amazing place for a family holiday with an unparalleled array of attractions to keep the kids entertained. Before you book your Orlando flights, check out the Globehunters top ten tips for getting the most out of your family holiday at Disney World.

1) Beat the big queues with a fastpass

Lengthy queues can certainly be a drawback of Disney World’s popular rides, particularly during peak season. By getting a Fastpass from the ‘Fastpass Distribution’ points near the entrances of certain rides you can then return within an allocated time and get to the front of the queue far quicker. Even without a Fastpass, by going to the most popular rides at the beginning or end of the day you can cut queue times in half and stop the kids getting frustrated.

2) Bring your own food

Not a lot of people realise that Disney World actually permits visitors to bring in their own food. Whilst it may not be practical to carry full meals around all day, by bringing some snacks to eat throughout the day it’s possible to save a fair few dollars. If you’re in a self-catering holiday in Orlando during the summer try freezing some soft drinks overnight so they remain cold until the afternoon. Having a snack and cool drink to hand can postpone a tantrum!

3) Book restaurants in advance

Sit-down restaurants are exceptionally busy; so much so that it can be impossible to get into any of them without a reservation. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to make these reservations as early as possible – even as soon as you’ve booked your flights to Orlando. Some Disney restaurants are starting to operate a traditional booking system; many still operate a Fastpass-style system where those that have reserved are fast tracked to the next available table. 

Advance reservations can be booked at 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or the Central Reservations Office - at 407-WDW-DISNEY (407-934-7639.)

4) Get the best apps

There are loads of useful mobile apps that can help make your Disney experience run smoothly. The £1.79 Walt Disney World Maps Box Set is a lifesaver when it comes to finding your way around the parks and is a handy modern alternative to using a dog-eared paper map. The WDW Radio app is also a great way to stay up to date with all goings on at Disney World and has some useful podcasts to check out.

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth at Epcot

5) Dress Appropriately

For a comfortable day in the Disney Parks be sure to familiarise yourself with Orlando’s weather. During the summer Orlando is prone to afternoon downpours so keep a waterproof at hand. Outside of these downpours, the sun can be very powerful so remember to take sun cream. If your kids are planning on going on rides that involve getting wet (and let’s face it, they are!) be sure to allow for this and pack a change of clothes.

6) Wear the right footwear

Whatever your plans for your day, it will involve a lot of walking so make sure that all the family is wearing appropriate shoes - comfortable trainers can be a lifesaver. If you’ve got room, consider packing some flip-flops too in case their trainers get soaked.

7) Plan your route for the day

Whatever part of Disney World you’re in, it’s important to plan your route for the day. The Magic Kingdom, for example, is split into six different lands that cover a large area. An average day at Disney can involve 8.5 miles of walking and by planning a logical route around the park you can limit the amount of walking needed.

8) Rent a pushchair for young children

Even if your kids no longer need a pushchair at home, this is something to keep in mind. As previously mentioned, a day at the Disney parks will involve a lot of walking and renting a pushchair (or stroller) gives tired kids a chance to rest, and saves parents from carrying them! A single stroller will cost around £9 per day – a double will be around £18. Cheaper multi-day rates are also available.

9) Split the day in two

There is an abundance of accommodation either within the parks themselves or right on the doorstep. Consider starting out early and then heading back to relax in the pool for a few hours in the afternoon. Not only does this break up what can be a tiring day, you can then watch the spectacular fireworks display at Magic Kingdom in the evening refreshed after an afternoon break. 

10) Have fun!

It can be tempting to try and fit absolutely everything in at Disney but sometimes it’s just not possible. Instead of trying to see and do everything in one day, sit down with your kids and pick the essential attractions and rides. Have fun seeing and doing those and then see what’s nearby. Whatever you see, it will be an unforgettable holiday!  

Globehunters provide Orlando flights throughout the year as well as Orlando holidays and car hire. Book online or call 020 3384 6000.

Do you have any tips you'd like to add to the list? Let us know below!