Embarking on a magical journey to Disney World promises excitement and joy, but the last thing you want is sore feet souring your experience. Fear not! We’ve compiled the ultimate guide packed with insider tips to ensure your feet stay happy and pain-free throughout your Disney adventure.
Most guests should expect to walk somewhere between 8,000 and 25,000 steps each day. Some of you may think, well that’s not a big deal. It is – and those steps do not include the time you are standing on your feet, waiting in line for rides.
The day is tough. It is long. But it is worth it.
Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to endless fun – let’s dive in!
- Start a walking regimen. This is very important. I cannot stress enough that if you are not someone who walks this much daily, start getting used to it. There is nothing worse then feeling as if you can’t have fun because you came ill prepared.
- Get professionally fit running or walking shoes. Go to a running store and be professionally fit. The shoes will be a bit more costly, but I promise they will have such an impact on how you feel. We get asked all the time what the best shoes for Disney are – the answer is that it is different for every person. Not all things are equal in this department. You need to speak with a professional and find something appropriate for YOU.
- Break in your new shoes prior to your trip. Don’t be caught putting on a new pair of sneakers your first day at the parks. You don’t know if the shoes will give you hot spots or create blisters. Your first days at Disney are not the time to be testing your new shoes.
- Pack Band-Aids, moleskin and a healing cream. If you are faced with blisters and hotspots, you will want something on hand. Don’t take away time from your vacation needing to heal from injuries.
- Wear socks – and good socks. I tend to prefer socks with added padding on the feet.
- Pack Epsom salts. When you are winding down at night, soak your feet in some Epsom salt to help ease the throbbing.
- Take ibuprofen and acetaminophen, together, if you are able. You can currently find dual-action pain relief products at your local pharmacy. I have found that the combination works better than taking one over the other. Please advise that this is not medical advice – I am no doctor – so please seek speak to your primary care physician before taking any medication.
- Avoid getting a pedicure just before your trip. I know, unpopular option – we all want Minnie painted on our toes to match our Disney Bounding outfits. However, as pedicures usually rid our feet of callouses, this may cause issues when walking long distances. Your skin may feel sore solely because of the newly exposed skin on your feet!
- Learn insider secrets of Genie+. Learn how to maximize your time at Disney with Genie and Genie+ hacks that minimize walking and standing in line, sparing your feet unnecessary strain.
- Strategic Dining Reservations. Score coveted dining reservations strategically placed throughout the park, giving you ample opportunities to rest and refuel without missing out on the magic.
- Insider Tips from Disney Experts. Gain invaluable insights from seasoned Disney enthusiasts and experts, who share their tried-and-tested strategies for conquering the parks while keeping your feet happy. Disney Dally can help you not only plan your vacation, but give you our personal tips for keeping our dogs from barking!
- Rest, rest, rest. You need to take breaks during the day and evening. Extend your lunch by 20 minutes, take in a show, go back to your room for a mid-day swim or nap before heading back to the park for evening hours. The importance of taking proper breaks is imperative for a pleasurable experience.
- Accessible Attractions and Services. Discover Disney’s accessibility options, from wheelchair rentals to special accommodations, ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic without overexerting their feet.
- Don’t work out. You are at Disney – you will be walking up to 12 miles per day. From our perspective, save the workouts for when you get home. Your body needs all the energy it can retain for a full day of fun!
- Biofreeze gel. Go to your local pharmacy and get some Biofreeze gel. Our suggestion is to slather this on and then elevate your feet in the evenings, before bed.
Take it from me – we will all most likely be sore. However, with a bit of consideration, you can save yourself (and your family and friends) from having those Disney aches!
Reach out to info@disneydally.com for more information to plan your dream Disney vacation!