Of course, if you’re traveling to Disney World, you want your experience to be magic. After all, Disney World brochures promise you a magical time. The truth is, though, you need to be well prepared in order to experience the best vacation possible. You need to budget your money so that you can make the most out of your vacation dollars, and you need to set your Seiko watches to ensure that you don’t squander a lot of time that could be spent having wonderful adventures at Disney. Here are some tips that can help make your vacation fabulous:

*Save your change. Saving up your pennies and your small change in the months leading up to your vacation could easily mean hundreds of extra dollars for your trip. Plus, keeping small change allows you to buy small items in the park without having to break $20 bills every time.

*Look for Disney World discounts before you leave your home. You can often get the best discounts online, through the official web site, via ticket brokers, and through your auto club. Check all sources for low-cost souvenirs, tickets, passes, hotel stays, car rentals, and plane fares. If you look, you can save hundreds or even thousands dollars off the total of your trip.

*Use FastPass. This allows you to skip long lineups in the parks, and is completely free to use.

*If you can afford it, stay in a Walt Disney World resort. The resorts offer many bonuses, such as themed accommodations, morning wake-up calls (which allow you to get started on all your day’s adventures), free shuttle service to and from the parks, ticket discounts, savings packages, and even extra hours in the park at no extra charge.

*Plan to stay cool in the theme parks. Florida heat can be overwhelming, especially if you are used to a cooler climate. Be sure to bring lots of water, dress comfortably and in light, natural fibers. If you’re having a hard time, make sure to stay in the shade or indoors during the peak hours of sunlight.

*Break in your new shoes before you go to Disney World. Disney involves a lot of walking round want to see all the best attractions. Bring the most comfortable shoes you can, and bring extra Band-Aids or inserts for your shoes for added comfort. After a long day of walking, plan on taking a relaxing soak at your hotel room.

*Get ready for security checks. Disney does have security checks, so consider what you pack.

*Bring a small first-aid kit. This can include sunscreen, aspirin, Band-Aids, and any of the other minor items that you may need in case you develop a blister or cut. If you are injured, seek the help of an attendant. However, keep in mind that for minor things such as aspirin you’ll have to pay park prices. It is far less expensive and more convenient to bring your own.

*Parades. Disney parades are really fun, and you should check at least one out while you’re at Disney. However, even if you don’t like parades, keep an eye out for when they occur. This is often an ideal time to try to get into the most coveted entertainments. More people will be watching the parades, giving you a chance to get access without a long lineup.

*When you pack, consider bringing an extra suitcase or snacks, which you will use up. You will need the extra suitcase room for souvenirs you pick up.

*Dress for the weather. Winter months in Florida can get cold, so bring layers of clothing that you can pile on and shed indoors. In the fall and spring, be sure to bring a rain poncho — a small foldable one is best — for the sudden rain showers.

*If you’re staying at a Disney resort, keep in mind that you can have any souvenirs or items you purchase at stores delivered to your room. This is often very convenient and allows you to enjoy your day without having to carry around large bags of souvenirs and toys. If you’re staying at a Disney resort, your Disney resort can also ship any breakable souvenirs and items you’ve purchased right to your home. This is the safest way to ensure that whatever must-have items you have bought will get home safely with you.

*Plan to have your meals largely on the move if you are on a limited time budget. Eating small things such as granola bars and sandwiches while walking around Disney allows you to see more without having to take a long time out for a meal break.

*Bring more than one ID. If you get into a bind and need to pay with a personal check, you will need at least two pieces of ID. You may also want two pieces of ID in case there is a problem with your hotel room or security.