Growing up, my family would take an annual trip to Disney World every March. The crowds were generally low and the weather was perfect. However, as I got older, my parents could no longer take us out of school for a week in March so like most families, we went in the summer during our summer vacation.
All I can say is – wow. You have not known heat until you are standing in the middle of a Disney park at 1:00PM with a 95-degree temperature and 100% humidity. We learned a lot that first summer trip, so I’d like to share with you some things to make your trip more enjoyable.
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Before You Go: Buy/Pack These Essentials
1. Cooling Fan with Sprayer
These fans are a lifesaver. Whether you are waiting for a parade or walking to your next ride, nothing beats a fan that has a sprayer to cool you off. Make sure you pack batteries as well!
2. Stroller fan
If you’re travelling with little ones who will be using a stroller, make sure you bring a stroller fan. You do not want your kids to be sitting in a hot stroller. The great thing about this fan is that it is battery powered and lasts a long time, is rechargeable (plug in to an outlet or can also plug in via USB!), and has a speed dial control so you can set exactly how slow or fast you want it. It clips on real well and is very quiet. This has definitely been a life saver in the hot summers at Disney!
3. Cooling towel
Simply soak these towels in some cool water, wring it out, and drape it around your shoulders. You’d be surprised at the difference it makes. Make sure everyone in your travel party has one!
4. Water bottles (lots and lots of them)
My favorite water bottle to pack is my Hydroflask. Fill it up with ice and it stays cool for hours. You can also buy a water bottle that has a built-in filter if you would prefer. Remember, quick-service restaurants will give you free water with ice if you ask for it so you can always refill your water bottles this way as well without having to buy $5 water bottles when you run out.
5. Ponchos
More than likely it will rain during your Disney summer trip and quite possibly it could rain even every day. It usually won’t rain for very long, but it is always better to be prepared. Plan accordingly and buy ponchos ahead of time.. I love these ponchos because they pack up very small and light so you can tuck them away in a small pocket in your bag or stroller.
Tips for the Parks
6. Look for places to cool off
Disney World in the summer is the perfect time to see those indoor attractions that you might not have seen before. For example, in Magic Kingdom we always go to Mickey’s Philarmagic and the Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor. Both of these shows have indoor queues and you get to sit to watch the show, which means lots of air conditioning! We also like the Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station in Fantasyland/Toontown area, which features a whimsical water play area great for kids and adults alike.
7. Take midday breaks
Even though you might not be an early bird, your best option for your park days would be to get to the parks right when they open. The crowds will be lower and the temperature will be generally lower as well. Plan to leave the parks around noon when the temperature is at its highest and crowds are at their peak. Go back to your hotel to rest, recharge, and maybe go for a dip in the pool. Plan to go back to the parks if you want around 4 or 5 PM.
8. Hydrate, and eat ice cream
Drink water, drink some more water, then eat Mickey Ice Cream Bars.
Avoid These!
9. Heavy princess dresses for kids
I know it’s cute to see your little one dressed up as a Disney princess. But those costumes are heavy and HOT! Your best bet is to get fabric costumes that are more breathable, like this one:
Or, if your little one is okay with it, just get a t-shirt with the character.
10. Dark clothes
Florida heat in the summer while wearing a black t-shirt? Not a good idea. Avoid dark clothes at all costs!
With these tips in mind, it is possible to enjoy a Disney vacation in the summer. You will usually find good deals on hotel stays as well at this time.
If you are interested in going to Disney World in the summer, contact me here!
