Hello, and welcome (or welcome back)!
I hope everyone is doing well and feeling safe, healthy, and happy 🙂
On this week’s blog, we are going to dive into ‘My Solo Travels’ Series: Part 3–Two Weeks Before the Trip.
The last weeks before a trip are equal parts thrilling and stressful, at least for me. Trying to make sure everything is set with your reservations, planning out all of the fun things you are going to do, getting some last minute shopping in……it’s a lot to deal with! Since I was going on a solo trip, I took it upon myself to handle all of my last minute craziness alone. I was able to do it, but if it becomes too stressful, DO NOT hesitate to ask for help!
Without further adieu, these are the top 5 things I did the two weeks prior to my trip:
- Double-checked my reservation: You should do this 1 month before, 2 weeks before, and the days leading up to your trip. Airlines are not perfect. Hotels are not perfect. Dare I say, even Disney is not always perfect. For airlines: make sure you double check that you are flying out of the correct airports, you have added a checked bag or carry on bag (should it apply), the flying times are correct, and you are sitting where you would be most comfortable. For hotels: make sure your room reservation has the correct amount of beds/accommodations and make sure you are still receiving the best price. In some cases, if you find a better rate for your room, you can cancel your reservation and rebook for a better price. **Always check with the hotel before doing this!**
- Book your Fast Passes and Dining Reservations for the parks: Here comes the fun part! I always enjoy sitting down to plan out my Disney trip. It is always advised to book your fast passes at least 2 weeks to 1 month before your trip. If you see a ride that you really want to go on that you know usually has a high wait time, grab it. In my experience, it’s usually Peter Pan’s flight at Magic Kingdom, Soarin’ and Test Track at Epcot, and Avatar’s Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom (I have never been to Hollywood Studios). Also, if you’re like me and you like fireworks, they have Fast Passes for that at Animal Kingdom and Epcot! For both parks, you have the opportunity to sit in a reserved section with great views for the fireworks with the fast pass. It is also a good time to make your dining reservations during this 2 week window as well. My personal recommendation? Try out The Boathouse in Disney Springs. They have amazing seafood, but it is a little pricy.
- Make sure everything is set with Disney’s Magical Express: Disney’s Magical Express is a great, included amenity that is included with your Disney Resort stay. Disney will transport you and your luggage from Orlando International Airport to the resort you will be staying at. And better yet, they will take you and your luggage back to the airport when your trip concludes. You will need to book this in advance, so once you book your trip, make sure you reserve a seat on the Magical Express bus. 2 weeks before your trip, make sure you confirm that you are all set with Magical Express; your luggage is going to the right resort hotel (they will drop the luggage off in your room!) and you know where to go once you arrive in Orlando.
- Get your suitcase ready: I know 2 weeks seems too early to do this, but trust me, it isn’t. Especially when you are talking about someone with a chronic illness. We have more to bring and buy on a trip than the average person. If you take medication, make sure you have enough for the duration of your trip. If you need more essential oils, pain patches, or even a new heating pad, stock up. Make sure you bring the things you will need, and even the things you think you might not.
- Buy your souvenirs in advance: Shopping at Disney is almost a birthright, I know. But, it doesn’t mean you can’t buy ahead and save some money. Get your festive Disney shirts for the park at department stores. I like to go to Primark for fun and festive Disney shirts. Likewise, I recommend buying a Disney-themed reusable cup before your trip to take with you. If you’re feeling adventurous, it is also a good idea to make your own Mickey/Minnie ears before you go! Save your money for food and the souvenirs you know you can only get inside of the parks.
So those are my 2 Weeks Pre-Trip tips! Let me know what you do 2 weeks before!
Stay safe and stay magical!
Ashley, MCT
My Chronic Travels 