Disneyland: How to Prepare

We all love Disney because of the great movies and it reminds us all of our childhood, when life was simple. So, if you are planning to go in the next little while, here are a few things to remember. (This list was compiled for Canadians.)

1. Before going check the weather.

There might be pounds of snow outside your window or it could be minus 30 and freezing. Remember that you are going to California and the weather there will be warm. If it is cold and you are getting someone to drop you off at the airport, bring your puffy jacket and gloves. Then when being dropped off take it off and run into the airport. That way you do not have to carry it around like some wierdo. For example, it is plus eight today and in California it is plus 17.

2. Download a conversion app.

Our Canadian dollar is not doing so hot right now and before buying anything remember that the price is very different. An item might cost $20 USD, but after the conversion that's about $27 Canadian. I'm saying you should not spend money while there, just be aware that is is different. Also, remember the American's use "miles" and "Fahrenheit," this can also be handy to know these things.

3. Download the Disneyland app.

I have recently learned that you can play games while waiting in line for the rides. Also, you can have access to all your passes right there on your phone too. They have all the information about the park such as the hours, the restaurants, and the showtimes for everything. It also tells you the approximate wait time for every ride, that is super helpful!

4. Remember to minimize the amount of things to bring with you.

They do have lockers (starting from $7 and going to $15 for the whole and you can come and go as many times as you need). If you are going with your family, it is smart to bring a backpack, so you are only carrying around one item.

5. Have a pet?

Do you think it is a problem? Well, it is not. They have a kennel for your furry friend. It is $20 for the whole day for Disney to take care of your best friend, so you can go and have fun without having to worry about your puppy.

6. Have a lot to carry and smallish children?

This, can be a bit of a problem, because they do not allow large wagons into the park. That is very valuable information if you are traveling with little ones. It seems that strollers are okay. The park does not like it when wagons are dragged behind you (could be for safety reasons).

7. ATMs

Almost any card is accepted including the useless American Express card you have in your wallet that basically no one in Canada accepts.

8. Go to the bank before hand.

Withdraw some cash just to make sure you have something on you, if your card or wallet gets stolen then you have a back-up. Always have cash on you.

9. Carry copies of your passport in a safe location.

Sometimes, the hotels provide you with safety deposit boxes, it is a smart move to use them. However, if you do not have this in your hotel, then carry a photocopy just in case if someone steals it, it will make your life easier. Always know where both copies are.

10. Think of a plan on how to get there.

Are you taking a shuttle from the airport? or are you riding the bus? think which one would be best to ride. When I go in February I will be taking a shuttle bus, because it is more convenient for me. If you are taking the bus, here is a tip on the how:

"Ride the bus/shuttle marked "G" to the Aviation Station and proceed to the west end of the platform. Board the Metro Rail Green Line headed east toward Norwalk. Once you arrive at the Norwalk Station, board the Metro Express Line 460 bus headed to the Disneyland Resort." (Getting from Airport to Disneyland)

11. Now, for you planners out there.

You can plan out your entire day in the park in consecutive order, so you can get the most done in one day. If you are not, then do not sweat it, enjoy your day waltz around and meet the characters.

12. Travel with all the medications.

Travel with all the medications such as Pepto Bismol, Advil, Tylenol and maybe take a Gravol for the plane ride. Gravol can also help with the rides, it calms the stomach. You should also take some laxatives because you never know what can hit you and when.

13. Wheelchair

If you are traveling with someone with a disability where they need a wheelchair, you can rent one for $12. Or $50, if you want one of those fancy ones with a motor.

14. Not a fan of the scary rides?

Don't worry, there are plenty of slow rides for you, too. Such as Alice in Wonderland, Autopia, Casey Jr. Circus train, Disneyland railroad—those are all good rides to slow things down for a younger child or someone who is susceptible to motion sickness.

15. Think about what things you want to do.

Do you want to go to Disneyland only? Or do you also want to go to California Adventure as well? California adventure is more recommended for the dare devils of the family.

16. Be prepared for rides that may be closed here and there.

I don't know if they had changed it since I was last there, but more often then not, "It's a Small World" ride is usually closed for repairs, so be prepared for rides that may be closed here and there.

17. If you hate all rides and you are in the adult range, there is always the spa, so don't despair.

The cheapest one is 25 minutes for $75, so it is not bad. You have many options for the way you want to relax.

18. Wear your comfortable shoes.

Take those high heels off, you will regret it if you don't.

19. If you are carrying a backpack...

They might let you wear it in the front of you during the rides as long as it does not get in the way of any of the safety arms they have in the rides. However, I believe only smaller bags it would work.