4 Weeks Out: My Disney World Prep Checklist

We’re officially four weeks away from our Disney World trip, and I’m starting to get all my ducks in a row. If you’re planning a Disney trip, this month is the perfect time to tackle things you might’ve overlooked when you booked your park tickets 60 days out. Here’s what I’m doing during the final 4 weeks before we go:

1. Check Dining Reservations

Even if you booked everything 60 days out, cancellations happen more often than you think. Popular spots can open up unexpectedly, so I’m constantly checking to see if there’s a reservation at a better time or a new table I didn’t plan for. If you’re after tricky-to-get reservations, be persistent—someone’s cancellation could be your golden ticket!

2. Look for Closures or Renovations

This one is non-negotiable. Checking closures now can save you disappointment later. From rides to restaurants, things can be down for renovations during your visit. You don’t want to stumble upon TRON or another must-do attraction only to find it closed. I also double-check closures 10, 7, or even 2 days before our trip—better safe than sorry!

3. Learn the Virtual Queue System

Some rides, like TRON or Cosmic Rewind, may use virtual queues. That means you reserve a time to enjoy the attraction later in the day, freeing you up to enjoy other experiences in the meantime. To get the hang of it, I’m studying the My Disney Experience App—it’s essential for virtual queues, Lightning Lanes, and just about everything else at the parks.

4. Prep Your Packing List

I start a month out to avoid the last-minute scramble. I consider the weather (hello, random Florida thunderstorms!), shoes that won’t destroy my feet, and what we’ll do after the parks—dinner at Disney Springs, anyone? Being prepared now means I’m not frantically buying ponchos or scrambling for appropriate footwear at the last minute.

5. Make a “Last-Minute Purchases” List

While planning my packing, I make a note of anything we still need—whether it’s Amazon orders or items from the store. Ordering a month in advance gives me time to see what we really need. If we don’t use it, no harm done.

6. Order Memory Maker

I want every magical moment captured. Memory Maker covers photos and videos at over 100 locations, including character meet-and-greets and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique experiences. Ordering ahead can even get you a discount! No more awkwardly asking strangers to take our picture.

7. Update the My Disney Experience App

This app is basically the ultimate Disney sidekick. Keeping it updated ensures everything runs smoothly—from reservations and Genie+ to checking wait times and park maps.

8. Research Genie+ and Lightning Lanes

FastPasses are gone, but Genie+ is here! I’m making sure I understand how to use Lightning Lane entrances to skip the lines at select attractions. Early planning is key since you can usually book 2–3 rides per day.

9. Check Park Hours

I double-check when parks open and close, any special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Christmas festivities, and early entry or extra magic hours. Knowing the schedule helps plan our days efficiently.

10. Refill Prescriptions

Traveling without necessary medication is a recipe for stress. I refill prescriptions now so we don’t have to worry during the trip.

11. Order Your Magic Bands

Once your resort reservations are in, pick your MagicBand in the app! Make sure to order at least 11 days before your trip so it arrives on time. Tracking links help, too.

12. Review Disney Transportation

From resort shuttles to monorails, Uber, and parking, I’m double-checking how we’ll get around. Understanding transportation logistics ensures smoother travel between the parks and our hotel.

💡 Pro Tip: These tasks may seem small, but doing them one month out makes the actual trip stress-free and more magical.