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Walt Disney World Travel Checklist

Walt Disney World Travel Checklist

Walt Disney World Florida, USA Travel Guide

Apps for Your Journey

Official Disney Apps

  • My Disney Experience:

    Official app for maps, wait times, mobile ordering food, park reservations, Lightning Lane times, PhotoPass, resort information. This app is fundamental for your trip.

  • My Disney PhotoPass:

    Manage and view photos by Disney photographers. Integrated within My Disney Experience.

  • Play Disney Parks:

    Interactive games and trivia, designed for entertainment during attraction queues.

  • Uber / Lyft:

    Download for ride-sharing if using transportation outside Disney's complimentary system.

  • My Disney Experience Mobile Ordering:

    Streamline food and beverage purchases for quick service locations.

Useful Websites

  • DisneyWorld.Disney.Go.Com:

    The official website for booking tickets, resorts, dining, and daily park hours.

  • MouseSavers.com:

    Find Disney discounts and deals, ways to save money.

  • TouringPlans.com:

    Offers crowd calendars, customized touring plans, and data-driven insights. This site is subscription-based for some content.

  • Walt Disney World News Today (WDWNT.com):

    An unofficial news site providing the latest updates and park changes.

  • AllEars.net:

    A popular fan site with park walkthroughs, food reviews, and current tips.

Community and Content

Official Feeds

Follow @WaltDisneyWorld and @DisneyParks on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for announcements and inspiration.

Follow Disney World

Community Content

Numerous fan accounts on Instagram and YouTube offer tips, trip reports, and live updates. Search for "Disney World tips".

Explore Vlogs

Podcasts & Courses

Podcasts like 'Disney Dish with Jim Hill' offer planning advice. Skillshare has photography courses. Babbel aids learning American English.

Skillshare Courses Babbel Language

Digital Information

Online Communities

  • DISboards.com: A large, active forum for Disney World planning, discussions from experienced visitors.
  • Reddit (r/WaltDisneyWorld, r/DisneyWorld): Active communities for questions and discussions.
  • Facebook Groups: Many dedicated Walt Disney World planning groups offer a wealth of information.
  • Online blogs and travel sites feature up-to-date park reviews.

Language & VPN

  • While communication within Walt Disney World is straightforward, Babbel assists with American English phrases for broader U.S. travel.
  • NordVPN offers a VPN service for secure internet browsing while traveling.
  • Consider downloading offline maps if you have limited data access.
  • Ensure your smartphone is set up for international roaming or consider a local SIM card.

Media for Immersion

Soundtracks

  • Stream park background music or attraction soundtracks.
  • Build excitement for your arrival.
  • Immerse yourself in the atmosphere.
  • Discover new favorite tunes.

Disney Cinema

  • Re-watch classic Disney and Pixar films.
  • Prepare for character encounters.
  • Appreciate themed lands and attractions.
  • Connect with the storytelling.

Listen & Learn

  • Many podcasts feature in-depth planning advice.
  • Learn about park news and historical insights.
  • Gain tips from experienced visitors.
  • Stay updated on operational changes.

Print Resources

While digital tools dominate, print resources still offer comprehensive planning tools and enjoyable reading for your trip.

Recommended Guides

Guidebook Selections

  • The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World: A highly detailed, data-driven guide with touring plans and comprehensive reviews, updated annually.
  • Birnbaum's Walt Disney World: An official guide that often includes coupons or special offers, also updated annually.
  • Park Maps: Free paper maps are at each theme park entrance. Digital maps are also integrated into the My Disney Experience app.
  • Travel Journals: For capturing memories and notes throughout your visit.

Destination Literature

  • Walt Disney's Imagineering Legends: For those interested in the creation and development of Disney parks.
  • Disney War: A look at corporate dynamics and history within The Walt Disney Company.
  • Orlando Weekly: A free alternative newsweekly covering local events, arts, and dining in the Orlando area.
  • Attraction Magazines: Free magazines found in hotel lobbies that may offer coupons or discounts for off-site attractions.

Emergency Information

  • Emergency Services: Dial 911 for Police, Fire, Ambulance (U.S. National emergency number).
  • Disney Security: Contact via any Cast Member or dial 55 from in-park phones.
  • Medical Facilities: Urgent Care and Hospitals are available nearby for medical needs.
  • Lost Documents: Procedures for passports, credit cards, MagicBands are crucial.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Weather Preparedness

  • Walt Disney World has established hurricane policies.
  • If a hurricane warning is issued for the Orlando area within 7 days of your arrival, rescheduling or cancellation of Disney Resort hotel and ticket packages is typically possible without fees.
  • Follow all Cast Member instructions during a storm event for your safety.

General Well-being

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in the Florida heat.
  • Use sunscreen regularly to prevent sunburn, even on cloudy days.
  • Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer available throughout the parks.

Emergency Alerts

Immediate Needs

  • Police, Fire, Ambulance: 911
  • Disney Security: Dial 55 from in-park phones
  • Guest Relations: On-site assistance
  • Urgent Care Clinics: For minor medical needs

Overseas Support

  • Your Country's Embassy/Consulate
  • Credit Card Company (Lost/Stolen Line)
  • Travel Insurance Provider
  • Family Emergency Contact

Urgent Safety Advisory

Always prioritize your well-being. Dial 911 for all emergencies. Consult Cast Members for immediate assistance within the parks. Stay informed about weather advisories.

Emergency & Medical Information

Be prepared for unforeseen circumstances with this emergency and medical information.

Immediate Contacts

Emergency Services

  • 911:

    For Police, Fire, Ambulance, use this U.S. National emergency number.

  • Disney Security:

    Contact via any Cast Member or by dialing 55 from any in-park phone.

  • Guest Relations:

    For non-emergencies within the park, staff can assist you with general inquiries.

Medical Support

  • AdventHealth Centra Care:

    Walk-in Urgent Care locations near Walt Disney World for minor illnesses.

  • AdventHealth Celebration:

    A full-service hospital located near the main entrance to Walt Disney World.

  • Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital:

    A full-service hospital easily accessible from the International Drive area.

Travel Document & Crisis Management

International Support

Locate your country's embassy in Washington D.C. And any consulates in Florida. Keep their contact information readily available.

U.S. State Dept

Secure Your Identity

Passport: Contact your country's embassy immediately; file a police report. Credit Cards: Call your bank immediately.

Visa Lost Card

Weather Preparedness

Walt Disney World has established hurricane policies. Follow Cast Member instructions during a storm.

Disney Hurricane Policy

Well-being Pointers

Hydration & Sun Protection

  • Drink water constantly, especially in the summer heat.
  • Pack sunscreen, hats, and cooling towels.
  • Take regular breaks in air-conditioned areas.
  • Free ice water is readily available at quick-service locations.

Minor Ailments

  • Baby Care Centers have basic first-aid supplies for sale.
  • Over-the-counter medications are available at resort shops.
  • Wear comfortable, broken-in shoes to prevent blisters.
  • Consider packing rehydration salts for very hot days.

On-Site Security

Cast Member Assistance

  • Cast Members are trained to assist with guest needs and security concerns.
  • Report any suspicious or concerning behavior immediately.
  • Familiarize yourself with attraction safety guidelines before riding.
  • Secure personal belongings on rides and in crowded areas.

First Aid Stations

  • First Aid centers are located in each theme park for medical needs.
  • Nurses are on staff to assist with minor injuries or illnesses.
  • These centers offer quiet spaces for rest if a family member feels unwell.
  • They also feature changing tables and private nursing areas.
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