Thank you! Gary, we just posted a video breaking down Disneyland vs Disney World-- would love for you (or any Disney Parks fan) to watch it when you have the time. Check our channel please and thank you!
The broken merch! 🙌🏼My husband was a little too happy one night and it was our very last night - as we were walking to the buses leaving Epcot he was skipping(😂) and he dropped my brand new Epcot 35th Anniversary mug (the one that has all the old Epcot logos on it!) and ran back into the park to go back to purchase another one. Well the cast member remembered him and just have him another one! 😳😭 it was totally my hubby’s fault and was going to pay for it, but she insisted on it! We love Disney CM’s so so much!
I broke my shoes (Crocs) at Disneyland. I went to buy another pair. I casually mentioned that I broke my shoe and the CM gave me the Crocs for free. Love Disney CMs
My all time best tip for Disney when travelling with really little kids comes from my parents: if you have multiple kids that you maybe dont want to spend $40 on snacks from a kiosk, or maybe don't want them to eat a ton of junky snacks all day long (we had two kids with very weak stomachs), my parents would go to the grocery store before we left for the trip, and buy "fancy" snacks that we didnt get normally in school lunches or at home. they would also save our Halloween candy (we often went to wdw in early november) They would package them into snack sized portions if they weren't already, and bring them to the trip. when we were on the trip, they would dump everything on a table in the hotel, and we would pick 3 or 4 things to put in a fanny pack, and we could graze as we pleased throughout the day. Cheaper than only buying park snacks, more convenient than lugging around one big cooler all day, and still special for us!
One thing we always do is carry little packets of the powdered Pedialyte or LiquidIV to help keep us hydrated. We drink water non-stop, but the heat can sometimes really get to you and having those helps immensely. Also, having one before/after a few adult beverages is a definite lifesaver.
We share one backpack, and alternate who carries it. The one backpack speeds getting through the park entrance as the one person goes thru security bag check and everyone else just goes right thru gate. Saves a ton of time. Our last trip (pre-pandemic), we used one backpack for 5 people. The backpack carrier should be your speed walker as they can catch up the quickest.
Park bag: medicine, sunscreen, mist fan, empty water bottle to refill, phone charger and battery back ups, snacks, lunch box to store park bought snacks, ponchos, zip locks, bandaids, deodorant, socks. I use a large back pack and only fill it about a quarter way so there’s room for souvenirs! I usually keep my wallet and phone in a Fanny pack for easy access.
I don't really worry about snacks. We plan on eating one good meal at a park and we can make it between meals without snacks. Mist fans are useless to me. Basically it's ponchos, water bottles, and phone charger. Deo is for everyone else except me😉
Yes and yes. We just posted a video breaking down Disneyland vs Disney World-- would love for you (or any Disney Parks fan) to watch it when you have the time. Check our channel please and thank you!
Pro tip: don’t stress about fast passes. When fast passes return. It’s easy to grab almost any fast pass. So if you don’t get that Mine Train FP 60 days out. Don’t stress. With a little work while in the park. You can almost always grab a last minute FP. Great way to keep the kids busy in line. Delegate fast pass searching. Kids love to play on phones and it also gives them the chance to be the hero of the day when they find a hard to get FP. Double win!!!
Thank you! We just posted a video breaking down Disneyland vs Disney World-- would love for you (or any Disney Parks fan) to watch it when you have the time. Check our channel please and thank you!
We saved a lot of money by buying a $10 toaster, getting bagels, cream cheese and yogurt. Family of 4 and saved lots of $$ by eating breakfast in the room. We donated the toaster when we left :)
We do breakfast and coffee in-room too! Breakfast sandwiches, even if your room doesn't have a microwave, room temp isn't bad. I also bring my keurig because, imo, disney coffee kinda sucks outside starbucks. (i do allot at least one proper disney breakfast though...gotta have a mickey waffle at least once!)
@@beckyg2292 We do something similar. We're DVC and stay at the boardwalk villas so we always have a kitchenette in our room. We don't COOK while we're there (that's part of the vacation, as my mom says lol), but since we drive we DO bring a couple plastic bins with grocery stuff in them (like our own coffee, sugar, powdered donettes, other breakfast quickies/late night snacks) as well as a couple plats of bottled water and soda. Also, since we go out there every year (again, because DVC), we have an Owner's Locker which is AMAZING. It's a service that is partnered with Disney and for $99/yr they store a BIG purple bin with locks on it in a climate controlled warehouse, deliver it to your resort, and pick it up at the end of your stay via bell services. We store LOTS of convenience things like paperware, plasticware, toiletries, shampoo/soap, blowdryer, umbrellas, cooling towels, basic otc medications, power strips, extension cords, etc which makes packing a lot easier and gives us the extra room in my dad's truck to bring grocery items with us. We've been using OL for at least the last... ten years? It's fabulous!
We also eat breakfast in our room...pop tarts, oatmeal packs, juice boxes...saves us a bunch and the kids all take turns eating while the others are getting dressed.
Adding onto the flavor packets in your water - I used to bring instant coffee in a small ziplock and creamer pods for an easy iced coffee on the go (I’m not a huge Joffrey’s fan and sb line is usually so long!!)
Brilliant. I can't tell you how angry I was when I realized they don't serve coffee everywhere in Disney World. I'm from WA, so I never have to actually look for coffee.
TIP: We fly southwest you can check 2 bags per person. We are family of 3 so we pack one or two extra bags that are mostly empty to bring back souvenirs from the park. This is a good idea if you fly an airline like southwest and if you know you'll be bringing back oddly shaped items, such as light sabers or Disney toys especially if you have a child that has their own spending money. Will save you from having to pay Shipping back to your house or from over stuffing your luggage on the return trip home.
Nice tip! We have some bags that fold or collapse flat that we pack into the bottom of our other luggage. Then, we can put dirty clothes or soft goods in those, and have our main luggage for purchases or anything bulky.
@@RobStevens64 We've done that as well. With the so many odd shaped toys we do a large hard case suite case, divide our clothes in all of them on the destination flight and then they are almost always full on the return flight
I’m flying southwest soon. Is it 2 carry on bags or 2 regular bags?? I was planning on bringing one big carry on bag in Lou of bringing 2. Just wasn’t so sure!
Tip: "Don't Split The Party" doesn't apply in Disney, not everyone has to ride every ride together, eat every meal together, or stay in a complete unit. if there are littles, ride wimps, or folks who don't fit ride constraints; be okay to ride something else instead of just being constrained to the bench.
That is what me and a work colleague did when we were in Japan. We split up a whole day while at Tokyo Disney Sea. The first half of the day, I went on the roller coaster rides that I wanted and my colleague went on the more mild rides. Then in the second half, we spent the day together watching shows, eating dinner and Fantasmic! By doing this, we both got to do what we wanted separately and we still had time to do things together. Total win-win!!!
The group I was with did this, we had 5 adults and 1 kid, I think we were all at the same park a handful of times. We each had a way of contacting each if we wanted to meet up, and we tried to end the day at either Epcot or HS due to our hotel being on the Skyliner.
Yes, yes, yes. It's a bit different since the youngest in our party is my 25yo sister so splitting is a lot easier, but YES all the same. Both me and my sister have bad backs and my mom is SUPER claustrophobic, so that decides a lot as far as rides go. But when my sister wanted to build a lightsaber last year? My parents - who aren't _huge_ Star Wars fans - are in their 70s with mobility scooters (they've been married for over 50 years and they're _so cute_ riding around side by side!) so they tooled around the park together while I went as my sister's +1 to Savi's Workshop to film it, then we all met back up after it was done via texting to decide what to do next. My parents and I are big foodies but my sister... isn't. So while she loves places like Via Napoli, California Grill isn't her Thing. My parents and I LOVE it, though. Our solution? We always stay at Boardwalk and spend most of our trips in Epcot. So when the time comes, my parents and I leave to go to California Grill while my sister stays behind solo in Epcot, gets some of her favorite counter service for her dinner (fish & chips), and shops for her friends back home while FaceTiming with them while we have our fancy meal. Then we meet back up for what remains of the evening/fireworks. We still get our gourmet meal, she gets to have one of her favorite meals again AND spend a couple hours talking to her friends while shopping for them, everybody's stuffed and happy. Gravy! 😊
#1 is a MUST! My sister and I were in Epcot and we got a garden grill reservation with an hour notice!! And garden grill is SO worth the hype. So good!!
AJ, you forgot the locker tip. OMG, that was the greatest tip ever! We used to carry a backpack that got heavier throughout the day. Now we go straight to the locker and drop stuff off over the course of the day.
Smart for your back and your brain! We just posted a video breaking down Disneyland vs Disney World-- would love for you (or any Disney Parks fan) to watch it when you have the time. Check our channel please and thank you!
I'm just a German and honestly even with our more stable weather the apps are often not right and I have two I use daily to figure out an average between them.
26:00 i remember back when i lived in FL and had passes. One time my wife said i'm walking through the shops i need some of that A/C it was either our 2nd or 3rd time at the park when we realized that you could walk straight through. That beautiful Florida sun can be brutal if you're outside all day. Every little break was heaven after a few hours of enjoying the park
4:04 100% on the same page with this one. I usually book a hotel starting the night before first park day. Everyone is usually pumped and stays up late = sleep late because I don't force them into "extra psycho hours" at 6am. The earliest I ever arrive at a park is 11am or noon. By the time all the sleep deprived early birds are falling out, sunburnt and can barely walk anymore (4pm-ish) we are cranking out rides in short lines and fresh til the end. Even have gas in the tank for Downtown Disney Springs after.
21:59 Yes, there IS an upstairs to Columbia Harbour House BUT there is no elevator, so if you have a tray of drinks good luck getting up those stairs! You can't hold the handrail because you need both hands to hold the tray and there is NO anti-slip tape on the steps. I very nearly took a tumble down the stairs when I was there in 2019. Added bonus: the drinks don't have lids so even a wobble results in a gusher of pop all over the staircase. Tons of fun.
Before my short trip last month you suggested in one of your videos bringing different types of masks and I was SO glad I did. Going from cloth masks to the more medical style and back again was a much needed switch up!
Tip to skip breakfast in the parks and go straight for rides during park opening: buy the small cereal cups and milk cartons ahead of time at a grocery store (or get it delivered) and have breakfast in your hotel room. Saves money and time!
a thing i always must bring is a rag! it's easy and small to bring and you can use it to mop up a wet seat on a water ride so you're not sitting in a puddle or use it to sit on a damp outside bench after it rains.
We often use one of the hotel's hand towels for this. Also bring ziplocs for your phone and anything else you don't want to get wet, not only for wet rides but rainstorms as well!
Two words: laundry view. If you are like us with a little kid, we don’t over pack and do laundry on vacation. My wife found laundryview several years ago that tells you all of the open or in use washers and dryers at the Disney hotels and can even alert you for when your washer or dryer is done. So, you don’t spend time waiting in the laundry room at your hotel.
I am a wheelchair user from the uk 🇬🇧 and the best tip I was given was about bathrooms. There are 2 types of disabled (handicap) bathrooms that you have to be aware of so you don’t get caught out. If you follow the normal signs ♿️ you will find yourself at a slightly larger stall with handrails but no room for your chair and no way to shut the door. What you need to look for is an attendant toilet, of which there are a couple dotted about. The best one is always by the first aid place. Same is true for hotel rooms. “Florida adapted” are for those who use crutches or sticks. If you use a chair they won’t be enough.
Also, do t forget to apply for a handicap badge if you are driving. Apply to city hall in advance. They need proof of you blue badge and they will send it to you. When I last went it was $40. But well worth it
Bringing backup masks was definitely a lifesaver for me when I went for the first time last year because I dropped a mask while at Disney Springs and because I had plenty of extras with, it wasn't a big deal because I was able to put on a clean one and store the dirty mask for washing later.💙💙
When my dad and I went back in 2018 I was starting to get anxiety and the crowded street was making it worse and I cut all the way down main street exiting out of the gift shop closest to the gate and it saved me so much time
A tip my family uses for buying stuff is don't buy it till the end of the day. If they are out of stock for the thing you want we always go to DIsney Springs at the end of our trip and buy it there.
@@THESH4RKN1GHT I had a friend that went in January and they said that option is not an option right now, BUT you can have the purchases sent to customer service area at the park and you can pick it up afterwards.
I remember when I was 2-3 I watched Stacey and when I was 8 we stopped going to Disney resorts and I haven’t seen Stacey in years and we are staying at the Art of Animation hotel in November and I can’t wait to watch Stacey. BTW I will never forget when she went on Tower of Terror and said “what goes up most come down”! 😇😁
Finally going back to Disney after 11 years, it is pretty overwhelming considering I am the one planning it this time, but these videos are so awesome and helpful, just a couple more weeks to go!!
When we travel we keep our STUFF - souvenirs, delicate purchase etc and SHIP OUR LAUNDRY. Who cares if I have to wait an extra day or two to wash clothes ;-)
This is a good idea although if you buy on the Disney app for some souvenirs it’s free to ship most of the time and you don’t have to worry about things getting broken which happened to me. I do buy some merch at the park but some things are cheaper online
We've shipped things home before too! If the resort you're staying at has convention facilities their business center can handle the shipping for you. You can also order things from Amazon in an emergency and have it delivered to the resort and the front desk will hold it for you!
I would love to see what you include in your park bag. I've been to Disney several times with my family when I was young. However my fiancee and I are going for her first time in September. It would be nice to know what you bring as I've never had to plan in the past and I'm in charge of making our plans now :)
I haven't finished the video yet so if I repeat anything AJ says, I apologize!😅 I have a bad back so I like using a crossbody little backpack purse thing that has two major compartments, a couple minor zipped pockets, a velcro flapped pocket for my phone, and a mesh pocket that can fit a bottle, poncho, or micro umbrella. Small carabiner clips can come in handy for attaching things to your bag like sunglass pouches, umbrellas, bottle holders, or even small shopping bags. DEFINITELY bring a battery for your phone! I also have a little fan that plugs into the bottom of my phone OR the battery that's nice when you're in line or taking a break and looking through the My Disney Experience app at wait times and such. You MUST use that app. It's glorious and keeps track of literally everything in one place. Keep a text document on your phone to use as a daily trip log. Just jot down bullet points of things that happen each day along with restaurants you eat at, snacks you really loved, rides you loved, interactions with guests and cast members, funny things, etc. You can easily do that while sitting and taking a break during the day. You'll forget a lot of those small things, and I LOVE looking back on my old trip logs years later. 😊 Cooling towels are fabulous, too; the kind you get wet and flap in the wind to get them cold again? We got ours at Walgreens. Put it in a quart size Ziploc and you can refresh it at any drinking fountain. Bring Ziplocs for your electronics and important things not only for wet rides but also sudden rainstorms. Try to find _UV umbrellas._ They have a special UV blocking coating on the inside, and it literally feels a good 10-15° cooler underneath if the sun is beating down on you! Bandaids. Plenty of bandaids! A small bottle of plain old Purell was a staple in our bags long before Covid because the parks are a damn petri dish. It's also good for cleaning up minor sticky/dirty spots on counter service/snack stand tables with a couple napkins. We bring a big bottle and leave it in the room to refill our small bottles as needed. I carry a mini nail file in my bag, too, bc fingernail snags drive me CRAZY. I use one of those metal accordion style card wallets for the things I use frequently like AP card, Tables in Wonderland, ID, credit card, gift cards, etc. and keep it in an easily accessible pocket of my bag so I don't have to dig for it. My wallet is in my main bag with less used but important cards (like health insurance, AAA, back up credit card/debit, etc) along with my cash that I don't use that much in favor of charging to the room via MagicBands. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle, especially one that can be attached to a bag via carabiner clip. More and more drinking fountains are getting modified to have bottle refilling stations mounted in the walls, which can save a ton of money. If sunlight bothers you while sleeping, bring a couple binder clips with you to clip the curtains closed in your room until you wake up for the day. Pack medicine like Pepto, Imodium, Tums, etc. in case of tummy upset from all the rich snacks/meals/drinks. If it's supposed to be really warm that day, hold off on drinking anything alcoholic until 4pm when the heat of the day is over. Orlando is still REALLY HOT in September and there isn't much breeze during the summer. Pack an extra pair of "park shoes" so if one pair gets soaked in the rain, you can let them dry COMPLETELY in the room the next day while wearing the extra pair instead. My family likes to have one "sit down" meal a day, usually dinner, and we just graze/snack the rest of the day around that meal. There are so many fabulous snacks around the parks that grazing is a must! If there are any table service places you REALLY want to eat at, make an ADR (Advance Dining Reservation) if possible. ADRs open up six months in advance, and some restaurants fill up IMMEDIATELY even six months out. If you want any meal recommendations I'd be happy to share my opinion on that, too!😊 That's about everything I can think of right now. I hope this helps!
Floridian here. If you don’t have a stroller to carry all those things, dom’t overload your bag, because you have to carry it all day. You can buy almost anything you might need in the shops. You can get medicine for upset stomach at first aid. If your shoes might get wet, take them off and put them in a plastic bag before the ride. I can think of only one ride in Animal Kingdom where that is a concern and they give you a dry place to store your belongings during the ride. Hat, sunblock, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, cell phone with My Disney App, and wallet, in a crossbody bag is all you need. If it is very hot, an umbrella is a great idea. Clip it to your crossbody. Keep it simple, don’t weigh yourself down. Edit: FYI :September is hot and can be rainy in Florida.
@@kriscynical what do we do with the bags when we are going to get into a ride or a game? Can we place them in a storage, or someone of the party has to wait in the line with the bags? I'm going in July for the first time.
@@Vickimer21 As far as I'm aware (I haven't been able to ride thrill rides in more than a decade because of my back), every ride is designed to accommodate bags. Like Soarin', for example, has nets under the seats for bags and shoes that could easily fall off while in the air.
I left the park with a balloon but it came off the string and flew away, but I didn’t notice right away. Disneyland was already closed but they let me back in to get a replacement balloon. They couldn’t fix the fact that I looked crazy walking through the parking lot holding a string without a balloon, but they did give me a new balloon. I just wish I had been a little kid- but nope- grown adult. 🤦🏻♀️
When I was 4 years old on my first Disney trip back in 1988 my parents bought me one of those old silver Mickey balloons, and at one point in the day I started pointing at a balloon that was flying away, saying "Look! A balloon! Bye, balloon!!" Then my parents pointed out it was MY balloon. And then I started crying. lol (But they got me a new balloon after that!) Edited to add that was the same trip I was sitting in the stroller while my mom went into the bathroom, my dad was sitting on a bench with me while we waited, and by the time she came back out of the bathroom a Mickey doll almost as big as I was had somehow ✨magically appeared✨ in the stroller with me. My mom took one look at it, _looked_ at my dad, and said, "And how did THAT get there?" My dad looked surprised, "How did what get where?" Mom: _"That_ Mickey."😏 Dad: "Oh, _that?_ I have no idea."😁 Mom: _"Uh huh."_ I'm 36 now and I _still_ have that doll.😊
My biggest tip is work around the park, don’t go running back and forth. Start in Adventureland and end in Tomorrowland. Start in Dinoland and end in Pandora
My family has been going to Disney now for over 20 years and yes we make almost no plans.... We've gotten to the point where most of our trips are spontaneous and the reservations and plans are usually just the few priorities for that trip. Things always have a way of working themselves out
When my best friend and I do the festivals at Epcot (our favorite park) such as the food and wine festival, we split the cost of food. You pay at this kiosk, I pay at that kiosk. We also agree on the food item we will get. We've gone and spent $100 or less each including getting a souvenir like a mug or shirt.
That's a great idea! My boyfriend and I will be in Epcot for the garden festival so we may try that. I'm vegetarian and he isn't, so we may have to split up for some things.
I must agree with the crowd here, AJ! You have to do a "what's in my park bag" video. You teased us with it here...we all want it so looking forward to watching. Viewership will be record high and please your sponsors!
YES. It's really a great show with some amazing animatronics for the show's age. Please actually SEE IT at least once before utilizing it as a nap spot, y'all!
22:50 If you wanna practice Toy Story Mania before your trip, there's a way to do that. A Wii port was made back in 2009, and it's also available on Steam for 20 bucks. It's exactly like the ride, so you can play to your heart's content until your trip, and create the perfect strategy. Yeah. I know, go figure.
Surprised you didn't mention the lockers. I bring tops and bottoms for the whole group - extra underwear is especially important for the kids. If they get drenched on Splash Mountain, not only will they want dry socks, they will want dry underwear. If you go during chilly weather, wear jeans (long pants) into the park and stuff your shorts into a locker to pull out later when it warms up. Love those lockers!
The only caveat I came across with the shipping things home is if you buy merchandise from a Third Party shop (more common in Epcot on the Showcase) or (surprisingly) any of the souvenir vessels from Oga's Cantina. If Disney can't find it in their system by scanning it, they can't ship it from the gift shops. Fortunately the Cast Member's at the gift shop were very nice and packaged up what they couldn't ship so I could ship it from the Front Desk. Regardless, it was MUCH easier than trying to get everything I bought into my suitcase and on an airplane for the trip home!
I would really like it if they keep relaxation stations. It was so nice to have a place to take a break or wait on my sister when she had to go back to the hotel to get things she forgot lol.
The nap at midday is my biggest tip. My family got park hoppers, back in the beforetimes, so we'd go to one park in the morning, take an hour nap during the hottest, busiest part of the day, then go to a different park for the evening feeling happy and refreshed! I maintain that our trip wouldn't have been nearly as good if we tried to push through the whole day, every day.
First Aid also has the stuff to repair eyeglasses! My dad lost a screw out of his glasses years ago right in the middle of the park and thought he was SOL, but I had the thought to TRY the first aid station because... why not? It turned out they had several kits right at the front desk and the CM fixed them right then and there!
What I always put in my park bag: Water bottle (can be refilled around the park), sunscreen, chapstick (with SPF), hand sanitizer, hat, mini foldable umbrella and snacks (Oh! And also extra socks in a ziplock bag for the water rides - I learned this the hard way and had to buy expensive Disney socks). I would also definitely include a backup mask if going to the park nowadays. Also, my favorite kind of Disney bags are LoungeFly type backpacks.
Places that I like relaxing in to beat the heat/ sensory overload: pinnochio village haus (especially for people watching) carousel of progress, aquarium after finding nemo, impressions of France and the connected pastry shop, tables in Japan, land pavilion, fountain/ marble steps in Italy, Columbia harbor house, and generally any inside quick service with tables. (Obviously we grab a snack while in restaurants) also asking for ice water is a life saver and has kept me from fainting many times. Also don’t feel guilty about having a rlly short day so you can go further the next day. Another tip: check the weather and pack for anything and everything.
When we stayed in the Pop Century resort they put us in the 80's building. It was walk to get anywhere but it was quieter there and we got a nice nature view. So I guess it depends on your preference, be closer to transportation and it be really loud (the pool are was so noisy) or have a quiet place to relax but be far from everything.
First Aid centers are great. Last time I went I got blisters from walking and it got so bad I needed band aids. I looked for band aids through the stores. It was hard to find any but eventually did and bought some. But here’s the thing, looking for a place to put the band aids on we bumped into the First Aid center. They gave me better and as many band aids as I needed when the band aids I bought weren’t that great... for free.
Great tips! A tip that I figured out last year that has been a life saver is that I use a clear plastic small container tote with snapping on lid that I store the mouse ears and magic bands along with lanyards that I plan to use on that specific trip. Keeps all my Disney accessories in one place during the whole Disney trip. I come back from a park and put everything back into the bin and its ready for the next day when I need to get ready to go. The plastic tub also protects my ears from getting messed up. It also fits in a suitcase or carry on if I’m flying or traveling.
Was at MK and DHS last weekend. Was told by the host at each table service, we did a total of 3, that we could remove masks once seated. Was told to only wear the masks when getting up from our table to walk through the restaurant. I feel they may have rolled that one back.
Need to mention that sending purchases back to hotel for free is not available during Pandemic. We loved this extra magic from Disney pre COVID. Hopefully this service will return when Disney World goes back to normal.
This is a great list. All good tips. For years, we have done the rope-drop, mid day break, then split up. Some stay to fireworks, and the rest can lounge at the pool. Also, apart from checking cancelled ASDRs, I'll check for cancelled fastpasses while in line. Most days I can get through without staying in any lines. Just keep refreshing fastpasses and grab a cancelled one before someon else. And battery packs. Especially now, disney has you use your phone for everything. and everyone kinda needs there own phone... so expect to bring lots of battery packs, cables, etc.
I like the tip to check if some of the souvenirs you want are actually on Shop Disney. Then just make the order and have it shipped to your house, savings space for those park-only souvenirs.
Ok pro tip we just realized. You can get last minute ADRs at almost all the restaurants in Disney springs if you use Open Table. We planned a trip a week before we left, and got a res for 7 at Wine Bar George 4 days in advance, months after they all sold out on MDE
My gear (as the child with my family): •ponchos (we have the frog tog ones so they have bags that come with them) •astro glide (chafing) •backup battery •masks (this time) •sunscreen •airpods
Just a heads up on the new mask thing, I was in Epcot last week and Disney Springs tonight. The "masks on unless actively eating" rule isn't a super harsh one. We took ours off when we got to the table which is what we've been doing since things re-opened and haven't been asked to change it once. If you are walking around with it down below your mouth or even just drooping below your nose they will say something and if you don't comply they will confront you. I've seen them do it. Be safe.
I started laughing at the take a nap at American Adventure. When I was there two years ago, I fell asleep a couple times during my show. Then again, it was our first day there and I had been up about 18 hrs by then.
@@wendyarmstrong9321 lol 😆😂🤣I thought I was the only one. They really should have a capsule hotel INSIDE the park I would pay for a nap!!! The Hassel of going back to the room EVEN a Disney room is toooo much for me.
Hey AJ the extra pair of socks is great idea. I mostly wear wool socks a brand called Darn Tough. Wool socks are great for when it rains because wool drys faster then cotton. They also retain heat.
You know what's one of the things that I love about your videos ? I never care how long they care coz I know every minute is super important haha. I didn't even realise I sat through 37mins when I usually take a break every 15/20min of study :P
get magic band protectors on amazon! the second ride we went on in a morning at hollywood was rockin roller coaster. my magic band came off! luckily i caught it. you can get 11 protectors for 7 dollars and they help keep your band on :)
We use ride share around Disney to save time. Sometimes the buses take forever and with the cost of a vacation, a ride share is the way to go. A So there are plenty of users and lift running around DisneyWorld.
I would love a Disney park bag for you type video, so like if you have young kids, kids, if it's just you, or two people. My park bag needs some work and every time I go I find something I need in my park bag and my regular bag. Also, 2-gallon bags are a lifesaver. and a carabineer for store bags if you forget to do the pickup and that way the blue doesn't get on your hands.
Gonna sound weird but I always pack the underwear I mean to throw out and toss it during the trip so I have extra luggage room for souvenirs going back.
It's not weird at all. I take nice clothes that I buy at thrift stores when I am traveling. I leave most of these to be donated to homeless shelters when I leave. And I have plenty of extra room In my suitcase on the way home!
AJ can you do a video on single travelers? And something on people with mobility issues? like what are the best rides, how to get on and off rides with a scooter? how to do dining with a scooter?
Would definitely love a “what’s in my park bag” video!
Yeah like shoehorn it into another or make a mini episode
Definitely would like to see that
Yes me too
Yes!!! Great idea
I’d like that too
Bathroom tip in Epcot: go to the world showcase pavilion just past the Canada pavilion. They are huge and mostly empty.
The big bathrooms in America are really great, too, even though they're a lot more busy. They have enough stalls, though, that it's rarely an issue.
Thank you! Gary, we just posted a video breaking down Disneyland vs Disney World-- would love for you (or any Disney Parks fan) to watch it when you have the time. Check our channel please and thank you!
I'm from Canada and I hate how it's the worst pavilion. Maybe they should just turn it into a big bathroom.
Unless it’s food and wine season in which that bathroom is right by booths and refreshment areas
AJ needs to make that “what’s in my park bag” video
I second the notion !!!!
YEEES
Yes
Agreed!
100%!
The broken merch! 🙌🏼My husband was a little too happy one night and it was our very last night - as we were walking to the buses leaving Epcot he was skipping(😂) and he dropped my brand new Epcot 35th Anniversary mug (the one that has all the old Epcot logos on it!) and ran back into the park to go back to purchase another one. Well the cast member remembered him and just have him another one! 😳😭 it was totally my hubby’s fault and was going to pay for it, but she insisted on it! We love Disney CM’s so so much!
I broke my shoes (Crocs) at Disneyland. I went to buy another pair. I casually mentioned that I broke my shoe and the CM gave me the Crocs for free. Love Disney CMs
Si no te
My all time best tip for Disney when travelling with really little kids comes from my parents: if you have multiple kids that you maybe dont want to spend $40 on snacks from a kiosk, or maybe don't want them to eat a ton of junky snacks all day long (we had two kids with very weak stomachs), my parents would go to the grocery store before we left for the trip, and buy "fancy" snacks that we didnt get normally in school lunches or at home. they would also save our Halloween candy (we often went to wdw in early november) They would package them into snack sized portions if they weren't already, and bring them to the trip. when we were on the trip, they would dump everything on a table in the hotel, and we would pick 3 or 4 things to put in a fanny pack, and we could graze as we pleased throughout the day. Cheaper than only buying park snacks, more convenient than lugging around one big cooler all day, and still special for us!
My parents did the same when we where growing up, I did it with my kids & now will be doing that with my grandkids on our trip next week. Great Idea 💡
One thing we always do is carry little packets of the powdered Pedialyte or LiquidIV to help keep us hydrated. We drink water non-stop, but the heat can sometimes really get to you and having those helps immensely. Also, having one before/after a few adult beverages is a definite lifesaver.
"...and then you feel like a dumb-dumb all day" LMAO. Such excellent, dry delivery too.
@Nathan Bowers It means "laughing my ass off."
We share one backpack, and alternate who carries it. The one backpack speeds getting through the park entrance as the one person goes thru security bag check and everyone else just goes right thru gate. Saves a ton of time. Our last trip (pre-pandemic), we used one backpack for 5 people. The backpack carrier should be your speed walker as they can catch up the quickest.
Great tip!
I’m overly obsessed with this channel because I love Disney so much
The way AJ talks about the uses for ziploc bags reminds me of the uses of towels in The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.
"squishy damp socks" sounded like "squishy damn socks," which I liked better!!! LOL
Heard that too did a double take🤣
Haha That’s what I heard to! I was like “oh my gosh! I’ve NEVER hear AJ cuss!
I thought the same thing! 😂😂
I thought the same. lol
Park bag: medicine, sunscreen, mist fan, empty water bottle to refill, phone charger and battery back ups, snacks, lunch box to store park bought snacks, ponchos, zip locks, bandaids, deodorant, socks. I use a large back pack and only fill it about a quarter way so there’s room for souvenirs! I usually keep my wallet and phone in a Fanny pack for easy access.
Great tips agree completely
Buy discount disney gift cards at Sams or Costco if they have them to save extra money on food and souvenirs. :)
I don't really worry about snacks. We plan on eating one good meal at a park and we can make it between meals without snacks. Mist fans are useless to me. Basically it's ponchos, water bottles, and phone charger. Deo is for everyone else except me😉
B Czech. “Deo is for everyone else but me” So funny. After three days in Florida my sweat doesn’t smell any more or maybe I just don’t notice.
Yes and yes. We just posted a video breaking down Disneyland vs Disney World-- would love for you (or any Disney Parks fan) to watch it when you have the time. Check our channel please and thank you!
Pro tip: don’t stress about fast passes. When fast passes return. It’s easy to grab almost any fast pass. So if you don’t get that Mine Train FP 60 days out. Don’t stress. With a little work while in the park. You can almost always grab a last minute FP. Great way to keep the kids busy in line. Delegate fast pass searching. Kids love to play on phones and it also gives them the chance to be the hero of the day when they find a hard to get FP. Double win!!!
Thank you! We just posted a video breaking down Disneyland vs Disney World-- would love for you (or any Disney Parks fan) to watch it when you have the time. Check our channel please and thank you!
This reply aged so badly 😭😭😭 I wish regular Fastpasses were back
Might be different with this new thing in place.
@@Cerise4697 I remember when I went everyone got like at least one free fast pass, guess that’s what I out the window now.
This aged like fine milk
We saved a lot of money by buying a $10 toaster, getting bagels, cream cheese and yogurt. Family of 4 and saved lots of $$ by eating breakfast in the room. We donated the toaster when we left :)
We do breakfast and coffee in-room too! Breakfast sandwiches, even if your room doesn't have a microwave, room temp isn't bad. I also bring my keurig because, imo, disney coffee kinda sucks outside starbucks. (i do allot at least one proper disney breakfast though...gotta have a mickey waffle at least once!)
@@beckyg2292 We do something similar. We're DVC and stay at the boardwalk villas so we always have a kitchenette in our room. We don't COOK while we're there (that's part of the vacation, as my mom says lol), but since we drive we DO bring a couple plastic bins with grocery stuff in them (like our own coffee, sugar, powdered donettes, other breakfast quickies/late night snacks) as well as a couple plats of bottled water and soda.
Also, since we go out there every year (again, because DVC), we have an Owner's Locker which is AMAZING. It's a service that is partnered with Disney and for $99/yr they store a BIG purple bin with locks on it in a climate controlled warehouse, deliver it to your resort, and pick it up at the end of your stay via bell services. We store LOTS of convenience things like paperware, plasticware, toiletries, shampoo/soap, blowdryer, umbrellas, cooling towels, basic otc medications, power strips, extension cords, etc which makes packing a lot easier and gives us the extra room in my dad's truck to bring grocery items with us. We've been using OL for at least the last... ten years? It's fabulous!
Great idea! Sounds like something I would have done too!
We also eat breakfast in our room...pop tarts, oatmeal packs, juice boxes...saves us a bunch and the kids all take turns eating while the others are getting dressed.
@@beckyg2292 last year our room had a keurig ,, I was actually think about bringing k cups did your room have one ?
Backpack tip: Put the stuff that security wants to see in Ziploc you can quickly grab out and show them, or put in tray.
Adding onto the flavor packets in your water - I used to bring instant coffee in a small ziplock and creamer pods for an easy iced coffee on the go (I’m not a huge Joffrey’s fan and sb line is usually so long!!)
Great idea. I found crystal light with caffeine, but that is more appealing.
Brilliant. I can't tell you how angry I was when I realized they don't serve coffee everywhere in Disney World. I'm from WA, so I never have to actually look for coffee.
@@mcwjes thanks for the tip also cause i’m also from WA and don’t have to think about coffee
TIP: We fly southwest you can check 2 bags per person. We are family of 3 so we pack one or two extra bags that are mostly empty to bring back souvenirs from the park. This is a good idea if you fly an airline like southwest and if you know you'll be bringing back oddly shaped items, such as light sabers or Disney toys especially if you have a child that has their own spending money. Will save you from having to pay Shipping back to your house or from over stuffing your luggage on the return trip home.
Nice tip! We have some bags that fold or collapse flat that we pack into the bottom of our other luggage. Then, we can put dirty clothes or soft goods in those, and have our main luggage for purchases or anything bulky.
@@RobStevens64 We've done that as well. With the so many odd shaped toys we do a large hard case suite case, divide our clothes in all of them on the destination flight and then they are almost always full on the return flight
We check the Disney app and it gets shipped to our house most of the time it’s free. And a lot of the time it’s cheaper than buying at the park
I’m flying southwest soon. Is it 2 carry on bags or 2 regular bags?? I was planning on bringing one big carry on bag in Lou of bringing 2. Just wasn’t so sure!
Tip: "Don't Split The Party" doesn't apply in Disney, not everyone has to ride every ride together, eat every meal together, or stay in a complete unit. if there are littles, ride wimps, or folks who don't fit ride constraints; be okay to ride something else instead of just being constrained to the bench.
100%!
Completely agree
That is what me and a work colleague did when we were in Japan. We split up a whole day while at Tokyo Disney Sea. The first half of the day, I went on the roller coaster rides that I wanted and my colleague went on the more mild rides. Then in the second half, we spent the day together watching shows, eating dinner and Fantasmic! By doing this, we both got to do what we wanted separately and we still had time to do things together. Total win-win!!!
The group I was with did this, we had 5 adults and 1 kid, I think we were all at the same park a handful of times. We each had a way of contacting each if we wanted to meet up, and we tried to end the day at either Epcot or HS due to our hotel being on the Skyliner.
Yes, yes, yes. It's a bit different since the youngest in our party is my 25yo sister so splitting is a lot easier, but YES all the same. Both me and my sister have bad backs and my mom is SUPER claustrophobic, so that decides a lot as far as rides go.
But when my sister wanted to build a lightsaber last year? My parents - who aren't _huge_ Star Wars fans - are in their 70s with mobility scooters (they've been married for over 50 years and they're _so cute_ riding around side by side!) so they tooled around the park together while I went as my sister's +1 to Savi's Workshop to film it, then we all met back up after it was done via texting to decide what to do next.
My parents and I are big foodies but my sister... isn't. So while she loves places like Via Napoli, California Grill isn't her Thing. My parents and I LOVE it, though. Our solution? We always stay at Boardwalk and spend most of our trips in Epcot. So when the time comes, my parents and I leave to go to California Grill while my sister stays behind solo in Epcot, gets some of her favorite counter service for her dinner (fish & chips), and shops for her friends back home while FaceTiming with them while we have our fancy meal. Then we meet back up for what remains of the evening/fireworks.
We still get our gourmet meal, she gets to have one of her favorite meals again AND spend a couple hours talking to her friends while shopping for them, everybody's stuffed and happy. Gravy! 😊
#1 is a MUST! My sister and I were in Epcot and we got a garden grill reservation with an hour notice!! And garden grill is SO worth the hype. So good!!
AJ, you forgot the locker tip. OMG, that was the greatest tip ever! We used to carry a backpack that got heavier throughout the day. Now we go straight to the locker and drop stuff off over the course of the day.
Smart for your back and your brain! We just posted a video breaking down Disneyland vs Disney World-- would love for you (or any Disney Parks fan) to watch it when you have the time. Check our channel please and thank you!
As a Floridian I have three different weather apps. why you may ask? Because all of them say something completely different!
As a Louisianan, I do the same! Lol
I'm just a German and honestly even with our more stable weather the apps are often not right and I have two I use daily to figure out an average between them.
Yes - portion planning! My husband and I split every single thing we eat...except cupcakes. Those are all mine.
I’d love to see the ‘what’s in my bag’ video! It would be so cool to see!
Reusable straws are also a must pack
I always bring them! Paper straws are the worst.
26:00 i remember back when i lived in FL and had passes. One time my wife said i'm walking through the shops i need some of that A/C it was either our 2nd or 3rd time at the park when we realized that you could walk straight through. That beautiful Florida sun can be brutal if you're outside all day. Every little break was heaven after a few hours of enjoying the park
4:04 100% on the same page with this one. I usually book a hotel starting the night before first park day. Everyone is usually pumped and stays up late = sleep late because I don't force them into "extra psycho hours" at 6am. The earliest I ever arrive at a park is 11am or noon. By the time all the sleep deprived early birds are falling out, sunburnt and can barely walk anymore (4pm-ish) we are cranking out rides in short lines and fresh til the end. Even have gas in the tank for Downtown Disney Springs after.
21:59 Yes, there IS an upstairs to Columbia Harbour House BUT there is no elevator, so if you have a tray of drinks good luck getting up those stairs! You can't hold the handrail because you need both hands to hold the tray and there is NO anti-slip tape on the steps. I very nearly took a tumble down the stairs when I was there in 2019. Added bonus: the drinks don't have lids so even a wobble results in a gusher of pop all over the staircase. Tons of fun.
I like taking the hydration packets with me. It is like bringing Gatorade in which is better for my energy levels.
Before my short trip last month you suggested in one of your videos bringing different types of masks and I was SO glad I did. Going from cloth masks to the more medical style and back again was a much needed switch up!
Tip to skip breakfast in the parks and go straight for rides during park opening: buy the small cereal cups and milk cartons ahead of time at a grocery store (or get it delivered) and have breakfast in your hotel room. Saves money and time!
Those park breakfast lines ....uuuuhhhh never again.
Great tip
Cereal bars and other quick breakfasts!!
what stores deliver?
a thing i always must bring is a rag! it's easy and small to bring and you can use it to mop up a wet seat on a water ride so you're not sitting in a puddle or use it to sit on a damp outside bench after it rains.
We often use one of the hotel's hand towels for this. Also bring ziplocs for your phone and anything else you don't want to get wet, not only for wet rides but rainstorms as well!
Two words: laundry view. If you are like us with a little kid, we don’t over pack and do laundry on vacation. My wife found laundryview several years ago that tells you all of the open or in use washers and dryers at the Disney hotels and can even alert you for when your washer or dryer is done. So, you don’t spend time waiting in the laundry room at your hotel.
Is it an app?
I don’t think so. We always just use the website
@@warreng88 nice, I’ll look it up. Thank you!
I am a wheelchair user from the uk 🇬🇧 and the best tip I was given was about bathrooms. There are 2 types of disabled (handicap) bathrooms that you have to be aware of so you don’t get caught out. If you follow the normal signs ♿️ you will find yourself at a slightly larger stall with handrails but no room for your chair and no way to shut the door. What you need to look for is an attendant toilet, of which there are a couple dotted about. The best one is always by the first aid place. Same is true for hotel rooms. “Florida adapted” are for those who use crutches or sticks. If you use a chair they won’t be enough.
Also, do t forget to apply for a handicap badge if you are driving. Apply to city hall in advance. They need proof of you blue badge and they will send it to you. When I last went it was $40. But well worth it
So useful I’ve been thinking about bringing my wheelchair bound mom thank you
Bringing backup masks was definitely a lifesaver for me when I went for the first time last year because I dropped a mask while at Disney Springs and because I had plenty of extras with, it wasn't a big deal because I was able to put on a clean one and store the dirty mask for washing later.💙💙
When my dad and I went back in 2018 I was starting to get anxiety and the crowded street was making it worse and I cut all the way down main street exiting out of the gift shop closest to the gate and it saved me so much time
Please show us your park bag please
A tip my family uses for buying stuff is don't buy it till the end of the day. If they are out of stock for the thing you want we always go to DIsney Springs at the end of our trip and buy it there.
Don't they offer room delivery where they deliver it to your room or to the front desk of your hotel?
@@THESH4RKN1GHT I had a friend that went in January and they said that option is not an option right now, BUT you can have the purchases sent to customer service area at the park and you can pick it up afterwards.
@@morgancolley1957 ok I haven't been since 2019 thanks for letting me know!
@@THESH4RKN1GHT No problem ☺
We do the same,on the way out of the park.
I remember when I was 2-3 I watched Stacey and when I was 8 we stopped going to Disney resorts and I haven’t seen Stacey in years and we are staying at the Art of Animation hotel in November and I can’t wait to watch Stacey. BTW
I will never forget when she went on Tower of Terror and said “what goes up most come down”! 😇😁
Im going in November too!
@@arianabarbosa5685 That’s great! I hope you enjoy! Are you staying on property?
Finally going back to Disney after 11 years, it is pretty overwhelming considering I am the one planning it this time, but these videos are so awesome and helpful, just a couple more weeks to go!!
When we travel we keep our STUFF - souvenirs, delicate purchase etc and SHIP OUR LAUNDRY. Who cares if I have to wait an extra day or two to wash clothes ;-)
This is next level genius! Thank you.
Never thought of that before.
This is a good idea although if you buy on the Disney app for some souvenirs it’s free to ship most of the time and you don’t have to worry about things getting broken which happened to me. I do buy some merch at the park but some things are cheaper online
We've shipped things home before too! If the resort you're staying at has convention facilities their business center can handle the shipping for you. You can also order things from Amazon in an emergency and have it delivered to the resort and the front desk will hold it for you!
About taking breaks- I once rocked my toddler to sleep in one of those rockers in Frontierland and it’s one of my favorite memories
I would love to see what you include in your park bag. I've been to Disney several times with my family when I was young. However my fiancee and I are going for her first time in September. It would be nice to know what you bring as I've never had to plan in the past and I'm in charge of making our plans now :)
I haven't finished the video yet so if I repeat anything AJ says, I apologize!😅
I have a bad back so I like using a crossbody little backpack purse thing that has two major compartments, a couple minor zipped pockets, a velcro flapped pocket for my phone, and a mesh pocket that can fit a bottle, poncho, or micro umbrella.
Small carabiner clips can come in handy for attaching things to your bag like sunglass pouches, umbrellas, bottle holders, or even small shopping bags.
DEFINITELY bring a battery for your phone!
I also have a little fan that plugs into the bottom of my phone OR the battery that's nice when you're in line or taking a break and looking through the My Disney Experience app at wait times and such.
You MUST use that app. It's glorious and keeps track of literally everything in one place.
Keep a text document on your phone to use as a daily trip log. Just jot down bullet points of things that happen each day along with restaurants you eat at, snacks you really loved, rides you loved, interactions with guests and cast members, funny things, etc. You can easily do that while sitting and taking a break during the day. You'll forget a lot of those small things, and I LOVE looking back on my old trip logs years later. 😊
Cooling towels are fabulous, too; the kind you get wet and flap in the wind to get them cold again? We got ours at Walgreens. Put it in a quart size Ziploc and you can refresh it at any drinking fountain.
Bring Ziplocs for your electronics and important things not only for wet rides but also sudden rainstorms.
Try to find _UV umbrellas._ They have a special UV blocking coating on the inside, and it literally feels a good 10-15° cooler underneath if the sun is beating down on you!
Bandaids. Plenty of bandaids!
A small bottle of plain old Purell was a staple in our bags long before Covid because the parks are a damn petri dish. It's also good for cleaning up minor sticky/dirty spots on counter service/snack stand tables with a couple napkins. We bring a big bottle and leave it in the room to refill our small bottles as needed.
I carry a mini nail file in my bag, too, bc fingernail snags drive me CRAZY.
I use one of those metal accordion style card wallets for the things I use frequently like AP card, Tables in Wonderland, ID, credit card, gift cards, etc. and keep it in an easily accessible pocket of my bag so I don't have to dig for it. My wallet is in my main bag with less used but important cards (like health insurance, AAA, back up credit card/debit, etc) along with my cash that I don't use that much in favor of charging to the room via MagicBands.
Consider bringing a reusable water bottle, especially one that can be attached to a bag via carabiner clip. More and more drinking fountains are getting modified to have bottle refilling stations mounted in the walls, which can save a ton of money.
If sunlight bothers you while sleeping, bring a couple binder clips with you to clip the curtains closed in your room until you wake up for the day.
Pack medicine like Pepto, Imodium, Tums, etc. in case of tummy upset from all the rich snacks/meals/drinks.
If it's supposed to be really warm that day, hold off on drinking anything alcoholic until 4pm when the heat of the day is over. Orlando is still REALLY HOT in September and there isn't much breeze during the summer.
Pack an extra pair of "park shoes" so if one pair gets soaked in the rain, you can let them dry COMPLETELY in the room the next day while wearing the extra pair instead.
My family likes to have one "sit down" meal a day, usually dinner, and we just graze/snack the rest of the day around that meal. There are so many fabulous snacks around the parks that grazing is a must!
If there are any table service places you REALLY want to eat at, make an ADR (Advance Dining Reservation) if possible. ADRs open up six months in advance, and some restaurants fill up IMMEDIATELY even six months out. If you want any meal recommendations I'd be happy to share my opinion on that, too!😊
That's about everything I can think of right now. I hope this helps!
Floridian here. If you don’t have a stroller to carry all those things, dom’t overload your bag, because you have to carry it all day. You can buy almost anything you might need in the shops. You can get medicine for upset stomach at first aid. If your shoes might get wet, take them off and put them in a plastic bag before the ride. I can think of only one ride in Animal Kingdom where that is a concern and they give you a dry place to store your belongings during the ride. Hat, sunblock, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, cell phone with My Disney App, and wallet, in a crossbody bag is all you need. If it is very hot, an umbrella is a great idea. Clip it to your crossbody. Keep it simple, don’t weigh yourself down.
Edit: FYI :September is hot and can be rainy in Florida.
@@kriscynical what do we do with the bags when we are going to get into a ride or a game? Can we place them in a storage, or someone of the party has to wait in the line with the bags? I'm going in July for the first time.
@@Vickimer21 As far as I'm aware (I haven't been able to ride thrill rides in more than a decade because of my back), every ride is designed to accommodate bags. Like Soarin', for example, has nets under the seats for bags and shoes that could easily fall off while in the air.
@@kriscynical would love a link to a bag you use or recommend.
I left the park with a balloon but it came off the string and flew away, but I didn’t notice right away. Disneyland was already closed but they let me back in to get a replacement balloon. They couldn’t fix the fact that I looked crazy walking through the parking lot holding a string without a balloon, but they did give me a new balloon. I just wish I had been a little kid- but nope- grown adult. 🤦🏻♀️
When I was 4 years old on my first Disney trip back in 1988 my parents bought me one of those old silver Mickey balloons, and at one point in the day I started pointing at a balloon that was flying away, saying "Look! A balloon! Bye, balloon!!"
Then my parents pointed out it was MY balloon.
And then I started crying. lol
(But they got me a new balloon after that!)
Edited to add that was the same trip I was sitting in the stroller while my mom went into the bathroom, my dad was sitting on a bench with me while we waited, and by the time she came back out of the bathroom a Mickey doll almost as big as I was had somehow ✨magically appeared✨ in the stroller with me.
My mom took one look at it, _looked_ at my dad, and said, "And how did THAT get there?"
My dad looked surprised, "How did what get where?"
Mom: _"That_ Mickey."😏
Dad: "Oh, _that?_ I have no idea."😁
Mom: _"Uh huh."_
I'm 36 now and I _still_ have that doll.😊
@@kriscynical aww cute story- I love Disney memories.
My biggest tip is work around the park, don’t go running back and forth. Start in Adventureland and end in Tomorrowland. Start in Dinoland and end in Pandora
I’d love to see what’s in your park bag!!
Yes please share a park bag video.
Considering a 2 day solo trip would love to know the must haves.
My family has been going to Disney now for over 20 years and yes we make almost no plans.... We've gotten to the point where most of our trips are spontaneous and the reservations and plans are usually just the few priorities for that trip. Things always have a way of working themselves out
When my best friend and I do the festivals at Epcot (our favorite park) such as the food and wine festival, we split the cost of food. You pay at this kiosk, I pay at that kiosk. We also agree on the food item we will get. We've gone and spent $100 or less each including getting a souvenir like a mug or shirt.
That's a great idea! My boyfriend and I will be in Epcot for the garden festival so we may try that. I'm vegetarian and he isn't, so we may have to split up for some things.
I must agree with the crowd here, AJ! You have to do a "what's in my park bag" video. You teased us with it here...we all want it so looking forward to watching. Viewership will be record high and please your sponsors!
Omg! The American Adventure is the best place for a nap! It’s dark, everyone’s quiet, and it’s air conditioned!! ...Also a great show!
Mwahaha I will no longer lose on space ranger and toy story mania ride!! I have been gifted the knowledge to win😂
I cried the last time I watched American Adventure. It’s a beautiful show. If you wanna nap, sure, but make sure you’ve actually seen the show before!
YES. It's really a great show with some amazing animatronics for the show's age. Please actually SEE IT at least once before utilizing it as a nap spot, y'all!
22:50 If you wanna practice Toy Story Mania before your trip, there's a way to do that.
A Wii port was made back in 2009, and it's also available on Steam for 20 bucks.
It's exactly like the ride, so you can play to your heart's content until your trip, and create the perfect strategy.
Yeah. I know, go figure.
I’ll be there June 17-22! It’s my first trip!!
Did you have fun?
Surprised you didn't mention the lockers. I bring tops and bottoms for the whole group - extra underwear is especially important for the kids. If they get drenched on Splash Mountain, not only will they want dry socks, they will want dry underwear. If you go during chilly weather, wear jeans (long pants) into the park and stuff your shorts into a locker to pull out later when it warms up. Love those lockers!
Would love to see a park bag breakdown for individual trips/when you don’t have to pack for kids
The only caveat I came across with the shipping things home is if you buy merchandise from a Third Party shop (more common in Epcot on the Showcase) or (surprisingly) any of the souvenir vessels from Oga's Cantina. If Disney can't find it in their system by scanning it, they can't ship it from the gift shops. Fortunately the Cast Member's at the gift shop were very nice and packaged up what they couldn't ship so I could ship it from the Front Desk. Regardless, it was MUCH easier than trying to get everything I bought into my suitcase and on an airplane for the trip home!
I would really like it if they keep relaxation stations. It was so nice to have a place to take a break or wait on my sister when she had to go back to the hotel to get things she forgot lol.
The nap at midday is my biggest tip. My family got park hoppers, back in the beforetimes, so we'd go to one park in the morning, take an hour nap during the hottest, busiest part of the day, then go to a different park for the evening feeling happy and refreshed! I maintain that our trip wouldn't have been nearly as good if we tried to push through the whole day, every day.
First Aid also has the stuff to repair eyeglasses! My dad lost a screw out of his glasses years ago right in the middle of the park and thought he was SOL, but I had the thought to TRY the first aid station because... why not? It turned out they had several kits right at the front desk and the CM fixed them right then and there!
What I always put in my park bag: Water bottle (can be refilled around the park), sunscreen, chapstick (with SPF), hand sanitizer, hat, mini foldable umbrella and snacks (Oh! And also extra socks in a ziplock bag for the water rides - I learned this the hard way and had to buy expensive Disney socks). I would also definitely include a backup mask if going to the park nowadays. Also, my favorite kind of Disney bags are LoungeFly type backpacks.
I used to pack a full park bag and never used most of the stuff so I’ve learned to way downsize! But I always take ziploc bags now thanks to AJ! 😊
Places that I like relaxing in to beat the heat/ sensory overload: pinnochio village haus (especially for people watching) carousel of progress, aquarium after finding nemo, impressions of France and the connected pastry shop, tables in Japan, land pavilion, fountain/ marble steps in Italy, Columbia harbor house, and generally any inside quick service with tables. (Obviously we grab a snack while in restaurants) also asking for ice water is a life saver and has kept me from fainting many times. Also don’t feel guilty about having a rlly short day so you can go further the next day. Another tip: check the weather and pack for anything and everything.
When we stayed in the Pop Century resort they put us in the 80's building. It was walk to get anywhere but it was quieter there and we got a nice nature view. So I guess it depends on your preference, be closer to transportation and it be really loud (the pool are was so noisy) or have a quiet place to relax but be far from everything.
I absolutely want to see what you bring to the parks, please! 💫 your info is invaluable!🥰
First Aid centers are great. Last time I went I got blisters from walking and it got so bad I needed band aids. I looked for band aids through the stores. It was hard to find any but eventually did and bought some. But here’s the thing, looking for a place to put the band aids on we bumped into the First Aid center. They gave me better and as many band aids as I needed when the band aids I bought weren’t that great... for free.
10:45 that sort of boardwalk is one of my favorite spots in Animal Kingdom, so pretty and peaceful since it's usually quite empty :)
Great tips! A tip that I figured out last year that has been a life saver is that I use a clear plastic small container tote with snapping on lid that I store the mouse ears and magic bands along with lanyards that I plan to use on that specific trip. Keeps all my Disney accessories in one place during the whole Disney trip. I come back from a park and put everything back into the bin and its ready for the next day when I need to get ready to go. The plastic tub also protects my ears from getting messed up. It also fits in a suitcase or carry on if I’m flying or traveling.
I would love to see what you pack in your park bag, especially your camera gear. 😊
Was at MK and DHS last weekend. Was told by the host at each table service, we did a total of 3, that we could remove masks once seated. Was told to only wear the masks when getting up from our table to walk through the restaurant. I feel they may have rolled that one back.
You should definitely make a video of what’s in your park bag! I never know what to bring and regret not bringing things! Help me AJ!!
Ok but like, the video in which AJ shows us what does she bring to the parks... sounds VERY TEMPTING
Need to mention that sending purchases back to hotel for free is not available during Pandemic. We loved this extra magic from Disney pre COVID. Hopefully this service will return when Disney World goes back to normal.
This is a great list. All good tips. For years, we have done the rope-drop, mid day break, then split up. Some stay to fireworks, and the rest can lounge at the pool. Also, apart from checking cancelled ASDRs, I'll check for cancelled fastpasses while in line. Most days I can get through without staying in any lines. Just keep refreshing fastpasses and grab a cancelled one before someon else. And battery packs. Especially now, disney has you use your phone for everything. and everyone kinda needs there own phone... so expect to bring lots of battery packs, cables, etc.
I like the tip to check if some of the souvenirs you want are actually on Shop Disney. Then just make the order and have it shipped to your house, savings space for those park-only souvenirs.
These tips will pay off someday
Enjoyed the parks most when we stopped making plans (except for a few reservations and fast passes). We play it by ear and are much more relaxed.
Ok pro tip we just realized. You can get last minute ADRs at almost all the restaurants in Disney springs if you use Open Table. We planned a trip a week before we left, and got a res for 7 at Wine Bar George 4 days in advance, months after they all sold out on MDE
yep i have disney attire and park bag that is only used at disney...helps when packing for next trip coming up
My gear (as the child with my family):
•ponchos (we have the frog tog ones so they have bags that come with them)
•astro glide (chafing)
•backup battery
•masks (this time)
•sunscreen
•airpods
Just a heads up on the new mask thing, I was in Epcot last week and Disney Springs tonight. The "masks on unless actively eating" rule isn't a super harsh one. We took ours off when we got to the table which is what we've been doing since things re-opened and haven't been asked to change it once. If you are walking around with it down below your mouth or even just drooping below your nose they will say something and if you don't comply they will confront you. I've seen them do it. Be safe.
I started laughing at the take a nap at American Adventure. When I was there two years ago, I fell asleep a couple times during my show. Then again, it was our first day there and I had been up about 18 hrs by then.
I slept peacefully the bench in the corner outside the show
My husband tends to fall asleep both there and on Carousel of Progress. lol - it keeps him happy, and my son and I can stay out late with him! :)
@@wendyarmstrong9321 lol 😆😂🤣I thought I was the only one. They really should have a capsule hotel INSIDE the park I would pay for a nap!!! The Hassel of going back to the room EVEN a Disney room is toooo much for me.
Rider swap is amazing and really nice thing Disney does because it is hard keeping a toddler in line even more so if they can’t ride it after waiting.
Hey AJ the extra pair of socks is great idea. I mostly wear wool socks a brand called Darn Tough. Wool socks are great for when it rains because wool drys faster then cotton. They also retain heat.
Front seat on Expedition Everest biz at the top before you go backwards offers great views including Tower of Terror at HS!
Double masking is very comfortable. A paper mask with a larger cotton mask leaves you a pocket to breath in. 👍. Try it.
You know what's one of the things that I love about your videos ?
I never care how long they care coz I know every minute is super important haha.
I didn't even realise I sat through 37mins when I usually take a break every 15/20min of study :P
That moment when AJ gives away not one but two of your secret hidden family resting spots!
get magic band protectors on amazon! the second ride we went on in a morning at hollywood was rockin roller coaster. my magic band came off! luckily i caught it. you can get 11 protectors for 7 dollars and they help keep your band on :)
That was the best tip video you guys have made so far! Can’t wait for our trip next week. 🙌🏻👍🏻
going to WDW in april, I would like to see what you pack. first time at WDW.
We use ride share around Disney to save time. Sometimes the buses take forever and with the cost of a vacation, a ride share is the way to go. A
So there are plenty of users and lift running around DisneyWorld.
For the mask chain point, any type of lanyard with a clip at the end works as well
My husband and I have different seat preferences on Soarin I love B1, he loves B2.
Rock n rollercoaster the best seat is row 1 because it’s smoother.
I would love a Disney park bag for you type video, so like if you have young kids, kids, if it's just you, or two people. My park bag needs some work and every time I go I find something I need in my park bag and my regular bag. Also, 2-gallon bags are a lifesaver. and a carabineer for store bags if you forget to do the pickup and that way the blue doesn't get on your hands.
I am all for seeing a What’s In My Park bag video! Thanks as always for the great information AJ!
Gonna sound weird but I always pack the underwear I mean to throw out and toss it during the trip so I have extra luggage room for souvenirs going back.
lol I'd use mine to wrap fragile souvenirs
It's not weird at all. I take nice clothes that I buy at thrift stores when I am traveling. I leave most of these to be donated to homeless shelters when I leave. And I have plenty of extra room In my suitcase on the way home!
Ahhh I loved Disney’s Be Our Guest for breakfast
My son and I loved it for dinner. I figured, you know, why not splurge for one meal; I'm sure it'll be fine. Turns out it was wonderful! :)
AJ can you do a video on single travelers? And something on people with mobility issues? like what are the best rides, how to get on and off rides with a scooter? how to do dining with a scooter?
Definitely would love a "what's in my park bag" video!!