Are you thinking about a magical Christmas trip to Walt Disney World but worried it’s too late to plan? Fear not! Even if you’re planning at the last minute, you can still have an unforgettable holiday adventure in this magical kingdom. Here are some tips to make your last-minute trip to Disney World a success.
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Be Flexible with Your Dates
Try to be flexible with your travel dates. The week of Christmas is super busy, so consider arriving a few days earlier or staying a few days after New Year’s for a more relaxed experience. Your method of travel also has the potential to alter travel dates, as flight availability may vary but you can drive to and from Disney whenever you want.
Book Accommodations ASAP
Check out Disney’s on-property resorts for convenience and proximity, but don’t forget nearby hotels which may be more affordable. Considering how busy it is this time of year, I highly recommend you avoid driving around the resort if at all possible, so try to target resorts that offer free park transportation.
Use the My Disney Experience App
This app is your best friend for planning. It shows wait times for rides, helps with restaurant reservations, and even has maps of the parks. Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes can also be booked via the app and will help you skip the lines for your favorite attractions.
Pack for All Kinds of Weather
I live in central Florida near Walt Disney World. As I am writing this, it is in the low 50’s outside. In a few days, it will warm up to be in the mid 70’s. While we do not experience a ‘winter’ like other parts of the country, it can be quite chilly here, and then warm up later in the day. Packing layers, rain gear, and comfortable shoes will be essential in ensuring you enjoy your vacation.
Plan for Crowds
It is going to be BUSY. To ensure you enjoy your trip, you need to be mentally prepared for large crowds. Have a plan but be ready to go with the flow. Sometimes, the best moments are unplanned! Also, plan to take breaks back at your resort; downtime will help you relax and recharge.
Related: Disney World Updating Virtual Queue Guidelines in 2024
Enjoy the Special Holiday Events
Don’t miss the unique holiday parades, shows, and decorations. They are what make a Christmas trip here so special. The Festival of the Holidays over at EPCOT is AMAZING and should not be missed, and when you hit Christmas week the parade that is typically reserved for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party starts to run during the day at Magic Kingdom. The decorations are beautiful at night, with the holiday edition of the Tree of Light Awakenings over at Animal Kingdom a personal favorite of mine.
Remember the Essentials
Pack chargers, sunscreen, hats, and water bottles. Staying hydrated and protected from the sun is crucial. They call Florida the Sunshine State for a reason, come prepared for it!
Set a Budget
Things can add up quickly at Disney. Set a budget for souvenirs, snacks, and experiences to keep your spending in check. Disney Gift Cards are accepted pretty much any place that takes credit cards on Disney property, and are a great way to help you stay on budget since you know the Gift Cards are funds that are specifically targeted for your Disney purchases.
Relax and Have Fun
Holiday trips to Walt Disney World are all about making memories. Not everything will go as planned, and that’s okay. You may not be able to check out all of your favorite attractions, and that’s ok too. Enjoy the magic of the moment!
Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!
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