How to Beat the Heat at Disney World

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You guys, it is HOT down here! Those of you with vacations booked in the next few months may already be sweating thinking about how to beat the heat in Orlando. The rest of you take note as well, since summer lasts about 10 months in central Florida. Here are my tips for beating the heat at Disney World:

Touring Plans

When you’re trying to beat the heat, one of the best strategies is to adjust your touring strategy. If you typically like to sleep late and get to the parks midday, you might be better off coming when it’s cooler. This time a year you’re better off getting to the parks as early as possible and then leaving after a few hours. Head back to your resort for a nap or some time by the pool. Then head back to the parks for dinner and the (ever so slightly) cooler evening hours. Actually, that’s typically my advice any time of year to beat the lines as well!

However, you may not want to give up that midday park time if you trip is on the shorter side. In that case, I suggest you plan your midday touring to include a couple of indoor shows. This is typically the best time to see shows anyway, when the lines for rides are the longest.

Where to cool off

Luckily, Disney knew what they were doing when they designed the parks and the Florida climate was a big influence. Many rides – and their queues – are located inside air conditioned buildings. Even some of the outdoor queues have shade.

But eventually, you’ll have to go back outside. Just try to limit that time spent in the sun. I find afternoons are an exercise in hopping from one air conditioned island to the next. Take time to linger over your midday meal – INSIDE.

Take advantage of the water rides to beat the heat. Splash Mountain at Magic Kingdom and Kali River Rapids at Animal Kingdom will usually leave you soaked. At Epcot, there are several fountain areas that kids (or adults, I’m not judging) can play in. You may actually want to bring a spare set of clothes for little ones – they tend to get completely drenched and while that feels good while you are outside, it isn’t ideal when you need to head inside for dinner.

Hydrate

The absolute most important rule for touring Disney in the summer is to HYDRATE. Bring a refillable water bottle with you and refill it often! Water fountains are plentiful, but you can also get free cups of ice water from any quick service location and many snack stands. Get several – refill your bottle, then down another cup on its own. A good rule of thumb is to refill your bottle twice between every meal – and then to drink as much as you can at meal times as well.

If you don’t like water (or don’t like Florida water), bring along packets or a little bottle of flavor enhancer. Remember, alcoholic beverages do not count – they actually have a dehydrating effect. But Contrary to popular belief, caffeinated beverages are actually hydrating, so go ahead and add in some tea or soda if that is your preference (but getting your whole day’s worth of water requirement through mountain dew is probably NOT the healthiest way). And don’t forget fruit – some kinds, like watermelon, are up to 90% water!

We LOVE these Brita Filter Water Bottles because it neutralizes the taste of the Florida water.

I like the Gatorade packets because in addition to hydration you’re also getting your electrolytes.

Cool Must Haves

At some point, you do have to go outside. There are a few things you can pack with you to make you feel less like you’re visiting the surface of the sun. My favorite are Frogg Togg cooling towels and chilly headbands. These amazing things stay cool for ages after you wet them down and wring them out. Keep them in a ziploc in your backpack when you’re not using them.

I also recommend mister fans. We bought one from Disney years ago and bring it back on every trip. Fill it with ice water and you’re set. You can save some bucks by purchasing ahead of time on Amazon.

Speaking of fans, if you have a little one, do them a favor and buy a stroller fan. These ones are battery operated and provide a nice breeze.

Consider also the clothing you’re packing. You’ll want to stick with light colors and breathable fabrics. I find looser fitting clothes to be more comfortable because you get a layer of air between you and the material. And I highly recommend quick dry or cooling-type clothing. My husband loves these Billabong amphibious shorts and Artic Cool shirts.

If hats are your thing, but all means, wear one. But no matter what, do NOT forget the sunscreen. Really, this advice applies all year, but you’re really going to need it in the hotter months and you’re going to need to reapply often.

And something I haven’t tried yet, but I’ve put in my Amazon cart for our July trip:

This cooling spray doesn’t require refrigeration – it is supposedly self-chilling. I’m intrigued! If anyone has tried this let me know! And if you have any other great tips for beating the heat, leave your comments below!