10 Disney Planning Mistakes That Can Add Stress to Your Vacation

A Disney vacation should be exciting, memorable and fun. But with so many options, it's easy to make a few planning decisions that can leave you feeling rushed, overwhelmed or exhausted.

The good news? Most of these mistakes are easy to avoid.

Here are ten common Disney planning mistakes we see and what to do instead.

1. Trying to Do Everything

Disney is designed to make you want to do more than you possibly can. Instead of trying to experience every attraction, focus on the rides, shows and experiences that matter most to your family. Disney is just so immersive with its theming, activities, cast members and surroundings that you can't possibly take it all in during one day or one trip. That's a part of what makes it such a magical trip and why it's so easy to return to even after years of visits - there is always something new to do and see.

2. Skipping Rest Time

Many guests underestimate just how much walking a Disney vacation involves. Whether it's a resort break, pool time or a leisurely lunch, building in rest can make the entire trip more enjoyable. We are a family of rope-drop-to-park-close visitors, but we still try to incorporate meals or restful activities in the middle of the day. Sometimes that is a table service meal and sometimes that is a quick service lunch followed by Carousel of Progress or Spaceship Earth—both air conditioned, sit-down experiences.

3. Choosing a Resort Based Only on Price

The least expensive resort isn't always the best fit. Transportation, location, amenities and atmosphere can all play a role in your overall experience. A less expensive resort may save money, but if you're spending extra time on buses every day or missing out on amenities your family would love, it may not be the best value for your trip.

4. Wearing Brand-New Shoes

This one may seem small, but your feet will thank you. Always break in your park shoes before your trip. Most guests walk between 15,000 and 25,000 steps per day at Walt Disney World. Even a small blister can become a big problem by day three.

5. Waiting Too Long to Make Dining Plans

Popular restaurants can fill quickly. Even if dining isn't a top priority, it's helpful to have a rough plan before you arrive. You can begin booking dining reservations 60 days before your trip and for some popular restaurants, that is how far out they will book up. If you're excited to meet the princesses, Mickey Mouse or Beast, reservations at character meals are especially desired.

6. Ignoring Transportation Options

The Skyliner, Monorail, boats, buses and walking paths can all impact how your day flows. A little transportation planning can save both time and frustration. This is true when getting to-and-from the parks but also when resort hopping. Because you cannot ride transportation between two different resorts, you have to know how to use various transportation options to get from one to the other. For example, if you're staying at Port Orleans Riverside but want to visit the Grand Floridian, you can hop on the Sassagoula boat to Disney Springs and then take a shuttle bus to the Grand Floridian. You can also take a shuttle bus from Port Orleans Riverside to any of the 4 parks and then take another bus or the Monorail to the Grand Floridian.

7. Overpacking Your Park Bag

It's tempting to prepare for every possible situation. But carrying a heavy backpack all day can become exhausting. Bring the essentials and leave room for comfort.

8. Focusing Only on Attractions

Some of the most magical Disney moments happen between rides. Explore a resort. Listen to live music. Watch the parade. Take time to notice the details. Each area of Walt Disney World is highly detailed and customized. Slow down and notice the work that the Imagineers put into each space.

9. Not Checking the Weather

Florida weather can change quickly. A small umbrella, poncho, cooling towel or refillable water bottle can make a big difference. If you get caught at the park without a poncho, visit any of the stores and you can purchase a Disney-themed poncho for about $13.

10. Forgetting to Leave Room for Spontaneity

Sometimes the best memories aren't on the itinerary. Leave space for unexpected discoveries, surprise character encounters and moments that simply make you smile. Some of our favorite Disney memories weren't on the itinerary at all. They happened when we stopped to watch a street performance, discovered a quiet corner of a resort or changed plans because something unexpected caught our attention.

The Goal Isn't to Do Everything

One of the biggest lessons we've learned through our own Disney travels is that a successful trip isn't about accomplishing everything on a checklist. It's about creating memories with the people you love. The rides, restaurants and reservations are important, but they're only part of the story.

Because a little magic doesn't have to stay on vacation.

Bring a little magic to your everyday.

Your Pals,

Brittney & Courtney