There’s nothing like watching your kid’s eyes light up in front of Cinderella Castle… but let’s be real—Disney can turn magical to meltdown real fast if you’re not prepared. Whether it’s your first visit or first time bringing kids, here are the top mistakes parents still make in 2025—and how to avoid them.
❌ 1. Not Booking Lightning Lane in Advance
Disney’s new Lightning Lane Multi Pass lets you pre-book ride times—but only if you do it ahead of time. Waiting until the park opens = fewer options and more standing in line.
✔️ Book your rides 3–7 days before your park visit (depending on where you’re staying).
❌ 2. Underestimating Walking Distances
You’re not just walking around a theme park—you’re walking 10+ miles a day. Kids get tired, adults get cranky, and those cute shoes? Not worth it.
✔️ Wear broken-in sneakers and rent or bring a stroller—even for older kids.
❌ 3. Skipping Rest Time
You’re not weak for needing a break. Meltdowns happen when parents try to “power through” from rope drop to fireworks.
✔️ Plan a mid-day break or head back to the resort for a swim and snack.
❌ 4. Booking Late Breakfasts
That 10:30 breakfast sounds chill—until you realize it kills the best ride time of the day.
✔️ Eat early or later. Use the morning to knock out high-demand rides when lines are shortest.
❌ 5. Not Planning for Rain (or Heat)
Florida weather doesn’t care about your itinerary. In summer, it’s 90° with a 4PM storm like clockwork.
✔️ Bring ponchos, cooling towels, and backup outfits—yes, even for you.
❌ 6. Only Using the Disney App for Wait Times
The My Disney Experience app does more than show wait times. It’s your map, mobile order system, ride booker, and genie pass manager.
✔️ Download the app early, log in, and learn the interface before arrival.
❌ 7. Not Checking Height Requirements
There’s nothing worse than a disappointed kid turned away at the ride entrance.
✔️ Check height requirements ahead of time. Some “kid rides” still have limits.
❌ 8. Doing Magic Kingdom on Day One
It’s tempting—but Magic Kingdom is the biggest and most overwhelming park.
✔️ Start with something simpler like Animal Kingdom or Hollywood Studios to ease in.
❌ 9. Forgetting Portable Chargers
That app you rely on? It drains your battery. Fast.
✔️ Bring a portable power bank. Disney sells them—but you’ll pay more for less.
❌ 10. Not Booking Transportation in Advance
From Orlando airport to your resort, getting there shouldn’t be the stressful part.
✔️ Skip the rideshare chaos and book private transportation in advance (like We Drive You Fly). We include car seats, help with bags, and make that first impression magical.
🎯 Final Tip:
Disney is incredible—but only if you go in prepared. Avoid these rookie moves and your first trip won’t just be magical—it’ll be smooth.
Need help planning your transportation, stroller rentals, or just surviving the first day? We’ve got your back.