Disney World is one of the most magical places on Earth, but between the Florida sun, the endless walking, and the temptation to push yourself to the limit, it’s easy to slip into some bad habits while you’re there.
You’ll be doing a TON of walking on these streets.
And if we’re being honest, they’re the same bad habits your grandma has probably been telling you to avoid since you were a kid. That’s why we’re here to pass along a few pieces of advice from Grandma herself about what she wants you to STOP doing on your next Disney trip.
Forgetting Sunscreen
This is the number one “grandma warning” for Disney World, and for good reason. The Florida sun does not mess around. Even if you think you’ll be fine because you’re walking in and out of attractions all day, the reality is that the sun sneaks up on you. A little bit of time in that outdoor queue, plus a mid-afternoon parade, and suddenly you’re looking like Sebastian the crab.
WEAR YOUR SUNSCREEN!
Grandma would be shaking her head right now because there is no excuse for forgetting sunscreen. Not only is a sunburn painful, but it can also completely derail the rest of your vacation. You don’t want to spend your trip hiding from the sun in long sleeves and floppy hats when you could’ve avoided the whole mess with a quick reapplication. So pack it in your park bag, reapply during the day, and listen to Grandma on this one.
Skipping Meals
We know what happens. You’re rope dropping Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, then hopping on over to Adventureland, then running to catch your Lightning Lane, and before you know it, it’s 3PM and you realize you haven’t eaten since that granola bar in your hotel room. Grandma would not approve.
Columbia Harbour House Full Spread
Skipping meals at Disney World is one of the quickest ways to turn into a cranky, tired version of yourself that nobody in your group will enjoy being around. Disney food is a big part of the experience, so use it as a built-in break. Even if you’re not sitting down for a full-service meal, there are plenty of quick-service spots where you can refuel. Trust us, you’ll feel better, your mood will improve, and you’ll avoid that mid-afternoon meltdown that comes from running on empty.
Forgetting to Drink Water
If there’s one thing your grandma has probably told you a thousand times, it’s to drink water. And once again, she’s right. The combination of Florida heat, constant walking, and sugary snacks means your body is working overtime to stay hydrated.
Don’t forget your water bottle!
Too many people power through the day with sodas, coffee, or cocktails and completely forget that water should be the star player. Dehydration sneaks up fast, and before you know it, you’re dizzy, sluggish, and in need of an unplanned break. Avoid that by grabbing those free cups of ice water at quick-service locations or carrying a refillable bottle. Your future self will thank you, and Grandma will be proud.
Changing Diapers Anywhere Other Than the Bathroom
This one is less about your health and more about common courtesy. Yes, we know traveling with babies and toddlers can be tough, and diaper changes are part of the deal. But Disney World has tons of designated baby care centers and changing tables in every restroom. There is no reason to be changing your child on a restaurant table, park bench, or attraction queue.
Changing Tables
Grandma would probably give you the look for this one, because it’s just not something anyone wants to see (or smell) while they’re enjoying their Dole Whip. If you’re traveling with little ones, plan your day with breaks in mind so you can head to a restroom when it’s time for a change. Not only is it more sanitary, but it’s respectful to everyone around you.
Why Grandma’s Always Right
When you think about it, Grandma’s advice for Disney World isn’t really about rules—it’s about making sure you enjoy your trip to the fullest. Forgetting sunscreen leads to pain, skipping meals leads to crankiness, not drinking water leads to exhaustion, and diaper changes in the wrong place lead to unhappy park-goers around you. None of that screams “magical vacation.” Sometimes we get so caught up in the rush of the parks that we forget the basics, but those basics matter. Grandma’s been saying it for years, and she’s not wrong. Take care of yourself, take care of the people around you, and your Disney trip will be so much better for it.
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My grandma probably would show me photos of the way people used to dress and video of the way people used to behave, if she could. ‘Civilized,’ she would call it, and she’d have a point. And she’d point out that in her day, kids still went to bed at their normal bedtime (or at least much closer to it than is often seen now), even on vacation.