8 simple travel hacks to survive a summer day at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World might be the happiest place on Earth, but summer in Florida can seem like it is hot as Hades. Have you planned correctly?

With summer vacations in full swing, Walt Disney World is packed with guests of all ages. Whether it is your first visit or your 100th, summertime at a theme park, especially Walt Disney World, can be brutal. If summer time is the only time for you to make your pilgrimage to the almighty mouse’s home, a few travel hacks can make it more enjoyable.

If you do travel to Florida Disney theme parks during the summer, you might notice that the locals aren’t filling the theme parks like the tourists. Do locals know something that you don’t? It is a little bit of yes and no.

Florida in the summertime can be brutal. From scorching temperatures to afternoon downpours, the sunshine state, especially Orlando, isn’t always so picture perfect. Still, with a little smart planning, anyone can survive a summer day at Walt Disney World.

Here are my genius travel hacks to survive a summer day at Walt Disney World.

“Villains Unite the Night” is a new stage show at Magic Kingdom Park, part of the new, limited-access Disney Villains After Hours event held on select nights this summer at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The show features appearances by Disney Villains as they set the castle stage ablaze. (David Roark, photographer)

Ponchos are a must

If you watch a local weather forecast, rain is almost always on the schedule. While some days are rainier than others, an afternoon shower doesn’t mean that you theme park day is over. Just grab a poncho and keep on trekking.

Truthfully, some of the best times to enjoy a theme park are during a slight rain storm. Some rides don’t shut down in the rain, the crowds tend to lessen, and it can get cooler after the rain stops.

Also, don’t waste your money on an expensive poncho. The cute design or label doesn’t keep you any drier than an inexpensive one from the drug store. Save your money for a better souvenir.

Baby wipes

Sure, all those parents have diaper bags stocked with all types of supplies, but a small package of baby wipes can be your savior on a hot day at Disney. From cleaning sticky hands from that tasty treat to wiping away a little too much grime, diaper wipes are a must.

Don’t worry about getting the super expensive, scented versions either. Remember — these are in case of necessity. Sometimes that quick little refreshing wipe can be the moment of coolness you need at 2 in the afternoon.

Skip the flip flops

Vacation and Florida makes you think that flip flops are a must. Unfortunately at a theme park, especially Disney World, they are a huge don’t. Besides having people step on your feet all day, there is another issue.

Do you ever remember to put sunblock on your feet? There is nothing worse than sunburn on the top of your feet. Keep those adorable Havaianas for the pool after you are done having fun at the parks.

Find the cool rides

Even if you scored a Fast Pass for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, sometimes you need a break in between rides. On a super-hot summer day, why not enjoy an old school indoor ride to cool off and sit down for a bit?

Even a few minutes in the Hall of Presidents or the Carousel of Progress can be a good break during the day. Sure, they might not be the top attractions, but sometimes you just need to be inside and sitting down.

Skip the alcohol

Even if you and your bestie have the perfect drinking around the world shirt, alcohol might not be the best choice on a hot day. While that alcoholic popsicle or frosty beer might be tempting, it is better to wait till the sun goes down to sip your cares away.

Alcohol is dehydrating, and being dehydrated can be dangerous in the Florida heat. If you do part-take in an adult beverage, remember the 2-to-1 rule. For every alcoholic drink, remember to have at least two waters.

Water bottles

At home, almost everyone carries a water bottle around. Why shouldn’t you at a theme park? Instead of spending $3 on water, bring a water bottle with you. There are water fountains everywhere. Plus, most kiosks will happily give you water for free.

Skip the water rides

On a super hot day, a water ride sounds like the perfect solution. That drenching will feel refreshing, right? Actually, the opposite is true.

Getting soaked on a water ride can zap your energy and make you feel hotter. The wet clothes are heavy, and you’re walking around damp for a bit. Plus, there always seems to be a little smell to that water.

If you really want to get a little spritz, walk under one of the water misters. Those little spots do offer a bit of refreshment.

Eat lightly

Walt Disney World has so many tempting treats. From over the top desserts to decadent meals, it takes a tremendous amount of will power to pass by that yummy food. However, smart planning is imperative on a hot day.

Try eating smaller, lighter meals throughout the day. Those small bites will keep your energy up while not being too heavy. Plus, who wants to go on Space Mountain after eating a big meal?

Do you have any simple travel hacks that make a summer day at Walt Disney World more enjoyable? Share your thoughts with us.