Disney Tips

You’re Going to Disney!

Tips from One Mom to Another (and Your Personal Disney Travel Guide)

Hey there!

If you’re planning your first Disney trip or tenth, I’m so excited for you. It’s magical, overwhelming, joyful, exhausting and absolutely worth it. I’ve been there, and I want to share a few things I’ve learned along the way. Not from a brochure, but from real life. From mom life.

And here’s the best part: you don’t have to figure it all out alone. I help families plan Disney trips every day and there’s no extra fee to use me. Disney already builds that into the price. So you get expert help, personalized planning, and a whole lot of magic… without spending a penny more.

🧳 Start with a Disney-Specialized Travel Agent (Hi, That’s Me!)

Disney is its own world, and having someone who knows it inside and out makes all the difference. I’ll help you with Lightning Lane, dining reservations, DAS or a sensory friendly guide, and all the little things you didn’t even know you needed.

And yes, my services are included in the cost of your trip. No hidden fees. Just support, guidance, and a sprinkle of pixie dust.

🏨 Where You Stay Matters

Staying at a Disney hotel is magical. You’re in the bubble, and everything feels like part of the story. But if you’re watching your budget (been there), I can help you find nearby hotels with free shuttles and breakfast. Some are just minutes away and still feel special.

🧘‍♀️ Build in a Rest Day

Your feet will hurt. The kids will melt down. And you? You’ll need a moment to breathe.

Take a day in the middle to swim, nap, or just wander. We moms want to give our kids everything, but sometimes what they need most is a little less. I’ll help you build a schedule that balances magic and rest.

🎯 Don’t Try to Do It All

Here’s what works for us:

- Pick a few must-dos at each park.

- A few want-to-dos.

- And a few hope-to-dos.

You probably won’t get to everything and that’s okay. I’ll help you prioritize based on your family’s interests and energy levels.

🎁 Souvenirs from Home = Pure Joy

I pack little Disney goodies ahead of time and leave them on the kids’ beds after a day at the parks. We say Mickey or Tinkerbell dropped them off. Add a little note or card, it’s budget-friendly and so magical.

📒 Autograph Book Tip

Bring stickers of each character. When they sign, add their sticker next to it.

Even better? Add a photo of your family with that character.

Years later, you’ll flip through it and cry happy tears. Trust me.

🍔 Cheeseburger Egg Rolls. Just Do It.

They’re in Magic Kingdom near Adventureland. You’ll thank me later.

🪑 Take Breaks

Find shady spots or grassy lawns (we love the one in front of the castle).

Sit. Breathe. Watch the joy around you.

Disney isn’t a race it’s a journey.

🎭 Catch the Shows

They’re fun, air-conditioned, and a great way to rest while still soaking in the magic.

Festival of the Lion King? Beauty and the Beast? Incredible.

🔋 Stay Charged

The app is amazing but it drains your battery fast.

Bring a battery pack and a collapsible water bottle. Florida heat is no joke.

📱 Learn the App Before You Go

Download My Disney Experience and play around with it.

Check out:

- Lightning Lane

- Mobile ordering

- Wait times

- Park maps

Learning it at the parks is stressful. I’ll walk you through it ahead of time so you feel confident and ready.

🎮 Play Disney Parks App

It has games throughout the parks!

Perfect for keeping kids (and grown-ups) entertained while waiting in line.

🌈 DAS (Disability Access Service)

If your child has medical, behavioral, or cognitive needs, DAS can help.

You pre-register via video chat and get return times for rides.

It’s a lifesaver for autism-friendly visits. I’ll guide you through the process and make sure your trip is sensory-friendly and stress-free.

⚡ Lightning Lane Explained

It’s Disney’s version of skipping the regular line.

You can book rides via the Disney app.

It’s worth learning how it works before your trip and I’ll help you make the most of it.

🍽️ Character Meals = Magic Without the Lines

We’ve done:

- Cinderella’s Royal Table (yes, in the castle!)

- Chef Mickey’s

- Akershus

- Be Our Guest

- Crystal Palace

Characters come to you while you eat. It’s relaxed, fun, and unforgettable. I’ll help you book the ones that fit your family’s vibe.

About Believe You Can Travel

I’m Sheila, the heart behind Believe You Can Travel. I’m not just a travel advisor, I’m a mom of amazing kids with special needs, and I know firsthand how overwhelming travel planning can feel. That’s why I specialize in making trips magical, manageable, and meaningful for families like ours.

Whether it’s your first Disney adventure or your tenth, I’m here to guide you every step of the way ...with empathy, expertise, and a whole lot of pixie dust. And yes, my services are included in the cost of your trip. No extra fees. Just support, care, and a plan that fits your family perfectly.

Mama, you’ve got this.

Disney is a lot but it’s also full of moments that will live in your heart forever.

Take the pressure off. Soak in the joy. And remember: the magic isn’t just in the castle. It’s in your kids’ eyes, your laughter, and the memories you’re making together.

And when you’re ready to plan, I’m here.

Not just as a travel advisor, but as a fellow mom who gets it.

Let’s make this trip unforgettable. 💫

Sheila Smith

Believe You Can Travel

Fairy Wish Coordinator

810-728-4643