Surviving (and Thriving) at Disney World with Kids

Taking your kids to Disney World is a magical experience, but when you have three or more little ones in tow, it can feel more like a full-blown expedition than a vacation. Between the crowds, the heat, and the inevitable meltdowns (from kids and parents), balancing it all can be tricky. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some tried-and-true tips to help you make the most of your Disney adventure while keeping your sanity intact.

1. Plan, Plan, and Plan Some More

When traveling with multiple kids, spontaneity can quickly turn into chaos. A solid game plan is key!

✅ Book your park reservations early – With Disney’s reservation system, you’ll want to lock in your park days in advance to ensure you get the schedule that works best for your family.

✅ Use the My Disney Experience app – This is a lifesaver for checking wait times, mobile ordering food, and even securing Genie+ passes for shorter ride lines.

✅ Prioritize must-do attractions – Each kid might have a different favorite ride, so talk ahead of time about the top things everyone wants to do.

2. Pack Like a Pro

Disney is NOT the place to be underprepared. Bring:

🎒 Snacks and water bottles – Avoid spending a fortune on park snacks by bringing your own. Bonus: it helps keep hangry meltdowns at bay!

🧴 Sunscreen & hats – Florida sun is no joke, and sunburned kids are not happy kids.

🍼 Diapers, wipes & extra clothes – If you have little ones, a change of clothes is a must (hello, ice cream spills and splash zones).

🎧 Headphones or earplugs – If any of your kids are sensitive to noise, these can be a lifesaver during fireworks or crowded parades.

3. Use Genie+ & Rider Switch to Your Advantage

🚀 Genie+ – This paid add-on helps you skip long lines by reserving Lightning Lane passes. It’s a game-changer when managing multiple kids who don’t do well with long waits.

🎢 Rider Switch – If you have kids who don’t meet the height requirements, Rider Switch lets one parent ride while the other stays back, then switch without waiting in line again.

4. Have a Game Plan for Naps & Breaks

A full park day without a break? That’s a meltdown waiting to happen.

🏨 Consider a mid-day hotel break – If you’re staying on property, heading back to the resort for a nap or pool time can be a lifesaver.

🛋️ Find quiet spots – If leaving the park isn’t an option, seek out cool, shaded spots to recharge. Tom Sawyer Island (Magic Kingdom) and the relaxation areas in EPCOT are great for this.

5. Dining Hacks for Big Families

Eating at Disney can be expensive, but here’s how to make it work:

🍕 Split meals – Some Disney portions are huge! Sharing meals can save money and reduce waste.

📱 Mobile order everything – Skip the long lines by ordering food ahead through the My Disney Experience app.

🎟️ Character dining = entertainment & food – If you’re planning on meeting characters, a character dining meal kills two birds with one stone (and saves you time waiting in meet-and-greet lines!).

6. Embrace the Chaos & Make Magical Memories

No matter how much you plan, things will go off track at some point—someone will spill their Dole Whip, a stroller wheel might break, or a toddler will throw a fit in Fantasyland. But that’s all part of the adventure!

At the end of the day, Disney is about making memories, not hitting every ride or having a perfect itinerary. Take lots of pictures, soak in the magic, and don’t stress the small stuff.

✨ You’ve got this, Super Parent! ✨

What are your best tips for surviving Disney with a big family? Drop them in the comments!

Looking to book your next trip? Let me help you today!

🏰🎢🎠 #DisneyWithKids #MagicalMemories #FamilyTravel