Don't go overboard food shopping for the week. You'll likely eat out more on vacation.

Disney often overlooks people bringing snacks and sandwiches to the parks. Take a soft-sided, small cooler; giant coolers are not allowed.

If you have little ones, Tupperware and Ziploc bags are a must. Take fruit and Cheerios to the parks.

Take advantage of having a car rental. There are many restaurants that charge a fraction of the park restaurants, and the wait is usually shorter.

If you are park hopping at Disney, keep your parking stub, it's good for the entire day at any park.  Then write down your parking lot and row!  After day 4, they all sound the same, and at the end of the day the lot is an orchestra of car horns from families trying to find their cars with their remotes.

Pressing pennies in machines at Disney, SeaWorld, etc. are quick, inexpensive souvenirs. Disney even sells pressed penny binders.

Guage your children's mood carefully throughout the day.  Know when it's time for a break, even if it's just sitting on a bench to get away from the noise. Every park has a relative quiet spot to recoup.

Constantly tell everyone in your party which “attraction” you'll see next. If you get separated, you'll know where to find each other.  Child harnesses are not frowned upon here, they're almost a necessity.

Come back to the house for a midday break. This is crucial in preventing breakdowns, both in children and in parents.

SeaWorld is an easy-going park. Visit for when you need a relaxing day in between the Disney excitement.

Have fun, and tell your friends about us!