Top Five Tips to Avoid Meltdowns in Disney World

Mickey Ice Cream bars aren’t the only thing that meltdown in Disney World, but you can maintain a happy group by following just a few tips.

Disney World may be known as the most magical place on earth, but guests certainly aren’t immune to stressing out, getting tired, and melting down.

1. Manage Expectations

As you probably already know, Disney World is huge, and it is unrealistic to expect to see and do everything even during a very long vacation. Take advantage of the option for Advanced Dining Reservations to get into a few of your must-do restaurants, and schedule your FastPasses wisely. These things should be part of a reasonable touring plan, but remember not to pack your plan with too many reservations. If you have more goals than you can meet, you’ll likely get frustrated that you can’t complete everything you wanted to.

Instead, have realistic expectations and realize that there is way too much to do in a few days or even a couple weeks. Remember: when you get home, you’ll remember the memories you made and not how many attractions you visited.

Don't worry, be happy! It's a Disney vacation after all.
Don’t worry, be happy! It’s a Disney vacation after all.

2. Make Healthy Choices

For most of the year, Orlando, Florida is hot. There are also a ton of people. Combining heat and crowds could spell bad news for your health.

Getting sick can ruin your vacation pretty quickly. Be sure to wash your hands regularly, avoid handling or hanging on potentially dirty railings and doors, and remember to use sunscreen regularly to avoid sunburn and other common health issues related to heat and sun exposure.

Not only is it important to make healthy choices around the parks, but you should also plan meals and hydration carefully. There is so much to eat and drink around Disney World that you could easily overindulge. I’m not saying to skip that delicious cupcake or the sugary slushie, but remember to eat healthy foods like a chicken sandwich along with plenty of water. If you’re feeling thirsty, you’re probably already dehydrated, and that spells trouble!

3. Take a Break and Rest

It’s no secret that I am a big fan of the midday break. This is the time that the sun is at its peak and so are the crowds. Whether you head back to your hotel for a nap or a dip in the pool, settle down in an air-conditioned restaurant for a good lunch (which is much more affordable than a table-service dinner), or take in a show or a calming attraction (many of which are also air-conditioned with comfy seats), you’ll appreciate the time off your feet and the chance to cool down and rest.

You can’t expect that these short-term solutions will keep you going though. Be sure to get a good night’s rest at least a couple times during your vacation because hitting every rope drop, extra magic hour, and firework can really wear you down quickly especially in the warm Florida climate.

4. Don’t Stress Out

With crowds come some rude, fatigued, and irritable people. If you encounter one of these people, just smile and be polite. Set a good example for your kids and for the other people around you. Getting stressed about someone cutting in line or taking too long to order their food won’t solve anything, but it will certainly stress you out unnecessarily. Take a tip from Frozen, and Let It Go!

5. Perform Random Acts of Magic

Being polite can go a long way, but random kindness can be even better. Kindness can make you feel better and also make someone else’s vacation more magical. If you see a couple with a Just Married, Just Engaged, or Honeymoon celebration button, congratulate them. Tell the person wearing a Happy Birthday or Happy Anniversary button “Happy Birthday” or “Happy Anniversary.” If it seems appropriate, tell a little Princess how pretty she looks (without seeming creepy, of course!) You can even offer to take a photo for a family so everyone can get in the shot. Your fellow guests will not only be thankful but will probably return the favor.

It’s also nice to recognize a Cast Member for a job well done. A simple “Thank you” can go a long way, but if you think a Cast Member went above and beyond the call of duty, send a recognition e-mail to wdw.guest.communications@disneyworld.com.

What’s your best tip for avoiding a meltdown in Disney World?

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