Is it your first time visiting Walt Disney World? Are you feeling overwhelmed by what to expect and about what you need to plan? Don't worry we are here to help you! Disney is such a fun and magical spot but in order to get the most out of your vacation, there are few tips you should keep in mind, all of which we have outlined below! Here are the biggest Disney World mistakes first timers make in 2026 and how to avoid them.
Not Planning Your Trip Early Enough
Disney trips require more planning than almost any other vacation. If you have a list of things that you must see and a limited amount of time at Disney World then winging it when you arrive is a recipe for disaster.
About three to six months before your trip it's a good idea to decide:
- Which rides are must-do experiences
- Which parks you’ll visit each day
- Where you want to eat
Dining reservations disappear sometimes even before the 60 day booking window opens up to everyone. If you have spots you must eat read our guide on securing those hard to book dining reservations. And if you have no idea if where you want to eat will be tricky to book, check out The Hardest Dining Reservations to Get at Disney World.
Not Packing for Florida Weather
Florida weather can be a beast so make sure you pack accordingly. In the summer (April-October) bring shorts, tank tops, and plenty of sunscreen. If you are visiting in January and February be prepared for the possibility of some real cold snaps. There are times when you actually need a winter coat, hat, and mittens.
Even if you are used to the cold I find the high humidity here in Florida makes the cool weather have a sharp edge that really necessitates the cold weather accessories. Always check the ten-day forecast before you leave for your trip.
Underestimating the Florida Sun
The Florida sun is not forgiving, make sure to use sunscreen even if you normally tan. Also, watch out for dehydration. Drink plenty of water, Disney has many free water fountains around all the parks. If you are thirsty, you are probably already dehydrated.
Not Learning the Lightning Lane System
Many first-timers arrive without understanding Lightning Lane and Genie+, which replaced FastPass. If you opt to skip the added cost, just know that popular rides can reach 2+ hour waits when not utilizing the lightning lane system.
Disney World Resort guests can book 7 days in advance of check-in at 7:00 a.m. EST for their entire trip (up to 14 days). Off-site guests can book 3 days in advance of their park visit at 7:00 a.m. EST, one day at a time. There is a lot to understand when it comes to MagicBands and Lightning Lane we recommend reading MagicBands What You Need to Know for all the details!
Going During Major Holidays
There are a lot of amazing special events that happen at Disney World around the holidays. This does not, however, mean you should visit on the actual holiday. For all holidays, major and small, expect heavy crowds at all of the Walt Disney World theme parks.
Eating the Basics, Burgers, Hot Dogs, Pizza
Disney has really changed a lot over the years and has a lot of great dining options outside of your standard burgers, hot dogs and pizza. Don't overlook things like the Epcot Festivals and it's unique snacks.
The Sunshine Seasons over at Epcot offers fish, pork, and chicken which are great hearty options. Flame Tree Barbeque serves up some delicious ribs. If you need some inspiration read our guide to the best fast food to eat at Disney World.
Sleeping In
One of the best ways we recommend getting more done at each park is to arrive for the opening (especially if you don't want to pay for Lightning Lanes). If you do take advantage of getting there early we have been able to squeeze in up to 5 attractions in our first hour of arrival. If you sleep in and get there an hour or two after park open we can guarantee you will wait in line for every ride.
Not Scheduling Transit
This is imperative when park hopping! Did you know you can end up waiting up to 20 minutes for a bus to arrive? You should also keep in mind that depending on where you are going travel time from point A to B can be 10 to 15 minutes as well. You don't want to miss your dining reservations.
Buying the Wrong Tickets
When you are purchasing your Disney World tickets make sure you only purchase what you and your family really need. For example, if you choose to add water parks on to your ticket make sure to check that one of the water parks isn't close for refurbishment. Each year Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach close for a period of time for their refurbishment.
Not adding the park hopper option to your tickets is a great way to save money on your vacation. If you have toddlers or younger children traveling with you odds are it's going to be hard to visit more than one park a day when you factor in nap time. Plus the fewer bus trips when you are dealing with a stroller the better! For more information on tickets for Disney World read our guide.
Under-planning
I have heard many first-timers lament that they didn't take the opportunity to plan more. There is so much to do at Disney that it can be overwhelming if you aren't prepared for what to expect. You don't have to plan right down to the last second but we recommend at least thinking out where you want to eat and which parks you want to visit on each day. One of the best ways to start is to follow Planning Your Disney Trip in 10 Steps.
Over-planning
While we do recommend planning out your details on your trip, we don't want you to go so far to the extreme that you don't take advantage of enjoying the small stuff. Stop and enjoy the street performers or grab a Mickey Premium bar and watch as the tourist stroll by.
Remember this is also your vacation! Relax and enjoy don't over do it and wear yourself out so much that you need a vacation from your vacation! We recommend picking 3–5 must-do attractions per park and then enjoying the rest of your time as opportunities pop up.
Not having a Dole Whip
This is the best treat that Disney World has to offer, at least in my opinion. If pineapple soft serve deliciousness served in a cup isn't your style make sure you at least enjoy one of Disney's iconic snacks. We covered the Top Ten Snacks on the Disney Dining Plan if you are wondering just what these iconic Disney snacks include.
Wearing the Wrong Shoes
An average guest can easily walk over 5 miles during a full Disney World Park day! Can you imagine how your feet are going to feel after that? Blisters have to be one of the worst things to get during a Disney World Vacation. You may now be wondering what is the best shoe to wear to Disney World?
We know it's different for every individual so I would stick with your go-to comfiest shoes you own. Also, make sure that you break any new shoes in before you go. If you want more suggestions on shoes, read Top 5 Best Shoes to Wear at Walt Disney World.
Forgetting to Hydrate
Florida heat combined with constant walking can quickly lead to dehydration. Bring a refillable bottle and take advantage of free water at quick-service restaurants. For more tips read How to Stay Cool at Disney World!
Not Taking Midday Breaks
Many first-timers stay in the parks from rope drop to fireworks. And let's face it, that’s exhausting. A park fully park day easily jumps up to 18,000 - 20,000 + steps! It's not a bad idea to stop back in at your hotel in the mid afternoon for a 2-3 hour break and rest up so you can make it to the firework show or nighttime parade!
Plus mid afternoon is when Florida is at its hottest and Disney park crowds are at it's busiest.
Buying the Wrong Ticket Type
When you picking out of your ticket just know that a park hopper isn’t always necessary. Families with young kids often prefer one park per day because taking a break for an afternoon nap can be essential and you will need the evening to get in fireworks and any attractions you missed. If you do opt to park hop note that transportation takes time going between parks even if you are driving yourself and not relying on Disney transporation.
Forgetting Portable Chargers
Between the My Disney Experience app, photos, and Lightning Lane bookings, your phone battery drains quickly. You can opt to bring your own that you recharge on your own. Or our favorite to bring on long park days are FuelRods. They have kiosks at every park and hotel at Disney and offer free swap outs for fully charged batteries.
Not Slowing Down and Enjoying the Magic
The biggest mistake I find on vacation? Treating Disney like a checklist. Some of the best moments come from watching your families eyes light up at the magic of a night time parade. So be sure to relax with a snack and enjoy the atmosphere.
Final Tip
Disney World vacations are expensive—but with smart planning, they can also be one of the best trips you’ll ever take.
Avoid these mistakes and your first trip will feel far more magical.
I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!
Amanda
Wednesday 4th of October 2017
I think you got your fast pass dates mixed up. It's 30 days if you ARE staying on the resort, 60 if you aren't.
Jenny
Tuesday 5th of December 2017
The author is correct, because why would they give more special treatment to those NOT staying on property? It's just another incentive to stay on resort property for their stay
Patty Staricha
Thursday 5th of October 2017
It's correct : ) they let Disney Resort guests book 60 days out so they have the advantage! That's why those Flight of Passage FPs are impossible to get!