😱 Biggest Disneyland Paris Mistakes (And How to Dodge Them This Summer!)
Heading to Disneyland Paris soon? Grab a cuppa and read this first—unless you fancy learning the hard way, like the rest of us! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Mouseketeer, here are the classic blunders even Disney experts make (yes, including me). More importantly, here’s how you can avoid them and have the best trip ever.
🎒 Related for Smart Planners:
1. Not Checking the Crowd Calendar First
Don’t just turn up and hope for the best—some summer days are busier than Main Street at parade time!
Dodge it: Always check the DLP Crowd Calendar and book for the quietest days if you can. You’ll queue less and ride more.
2. Ignoring the Weather Forecast
French weather has mood swings. One minute you’re frying, the next you’re soaked.
Dodge it: Pack layers, a cheap poncho, and check our seasonal packing tips. Don’t forget suncream and a brolly—trust me!
✨ Book Your Disneyland Paris Adventure!
- 📅 Book stays up to April 2026
- 💳 Pay in easy instalments
- 🔄 Flexible booking: change or cancel free up to 7 days before arrival
- 🎟️ Park tickets included with every package
3. Not Making a Plan for Meal Times
Queues for food can be longer than some rides, especially in summer.
Dodge it: Book table service meals as soon as you can. For quick bites, eat at off-peak times (think: 11am lunch, 4pm snack).
[Billy’s Pro Tip: Bring snacks. Nobody wants a hangry Mickey moment.]
4. Missing Out on Extra Magic Time
If you’re staying at a Disney hotel, you get in early. So many folks forget this golden hour!
Dodge it: Set that alarm and make the most of Extra Magic Time—it’s the quietest you’ll ever see the parks.
5. Forgetting to Book Premier Access (or Overusing It)
Don’t wait until you’re in the park to try Premier Access—it often sells out on busy days.
Dodge it: Buy for top rides in advance if you need to, but don’t waste money if you’re visiting on a quiet day.
6. Packing the Wrong Shoes
Cobblestones and 20,000 steps… this isn’t the place to break in your new shoes.
Dodge it: Wear your comfiest, most worn-in trainers. You’ll thank me later.
7. Not Taking Breaks
It’s tempting to go, go, go! But you’ll burn out fast.
Dodge it: Schedule downtime in Disney Village, your hotel pool, or just people-watching with an ice cream.
8. Leaving Parades & Shows Until the Last Minute
Trying to get a good spot just before parade time? Good luck!
Dodge it: Stake out your spot at least 30 minutes early, or plan to catch the second showing if there is one.
9. Not Joining the Facebook Group Before You Go
The best tips come from real Disney fans!
Dodge it: Join our DLP Tips Facebook Group for live updates, insider hacks, and a bit of Disney banter. (You might even spot a planning disaster confession or two…)
10. Forgetting to Have Fun!
Sounds daft, but it’s easy to get stressed and forget the magic.
Dodge it: Laugh at the mistakes, embrace the chaos, and remember: you’re in Disneyland Paris!
11. Forgetting the Buggy/Stroller – Even for Older Kids
Think your six-year-old will walk all day? Think again!
Dodge it: Bring a buggy (or rent one in the park). Little legs + big days = epic meltdowns.
12. Underestimating Queue Survival Kits
Queues and kids—name a messier combo!
Dodge it: Pack snacks, games, mini fans, and stickers for the waits. Bonus points for a bubble wand—kids entertained, other parents grateful.
13. Missing the Baby Care Centres
There’s actual sanctuary for nappy changes, feeding, or just five minutes of peace.
Dodge it: Find the Baby Care Centres early! They’re quiet, comfy, and have all the essentials you forgot.
14. Not Prepping for Parade Tantrums
Nothing like an hour on the kerb, only for a child to need the loo as soon as the music starts.
Dodge it: Prep snacks, toilet trips, and something to sit on. You’ll be parked a while!
15. Overdoing the Day—And the Nights
Trying to do rope drop and stay for fireworks with littles? Good luck…
Dodge it: Plan breaks. Early mornings OR late nights, not both—unless you fancy carrying a snoozing child and a mountain of merch all the way home!
Your Turn!
What’s YOUR funniest, silliest, or most disastrous Disneyland Paris mistake? Share your stories in our Facebook Group, and help out the next wave of Disney dreamers! (Best ones may feature in our next round-up! 😉)
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