Deck 11 had everything we thought we needed, and at the time, it honestly felt like the smartest decision we could have made. We could walk out of our stateroom and be just steps from the pools, the AquaMouse, quick-service food, the soda stations, and of course, soft serve ice cream. When you’re cruising with kids, that level of convenience changes the entire rhythm of your day.

There were no elevator waits while everyone was dripping wet and impatient. No hauling towels and bags up and down multiple decks. No minor forgotten item turning into a full production. If someone left sunglasses, goggles, or a key card in the room, it was a two-minute fix, not a 20-minute disruption. Everything felt easy.

Deck 11 felt efficient. It made pool days seamless and spontaneous. The kids could run back quickly, we could pop up for food without planning it out, and it felt like we had unlocked some secret strategy to cruising smarter. For three sailings, we were convinced we had found the perfect setup and truly believed there was no reason to try anything else.

Disney was offering travel planners a last-minute opportunity to sail on the Disney Wish, and somehow we found ourselves staring at the calendar thinking, “Are we really going to do this?” Two weeks before sailing, my husband and I threw caution to the wind and booked it.

If you’re a parent, you already know what came next.

The excitement lasted about five minutes before the guilt set in. Booking a Disney cruise without the kids felt almost wrong. We are so used to experiencing Disney through their eyes — the pool races, the character hugs, the late-night soft serve runs. The idea of going adults-only made us hesitate more than the price ever did.

We debated it. We justified it. We almost talked ourselves out of it.

But we booked it anyway.

And it ended up being one of the most refreshing trips we’ve taken. Slower mornings. Long dinners without rushing. Sitting in the adults-only areas without checking the time. It reminded us that while Disney is magical with kids, it’s also layered and elevated in ways you don’t fully appreciate until you experience it as adults.

That spontaneous decision is actually what led to our accidental switch to Deck 10.

On our fourth cruise, availability worked out differently and we ended up booking Deck 10 instead of our usual Deck 11. It wasn’t intentional. We weren’t trying to experiment or prove a point. It was simply what fit with the last-minute nature of the booking.

And if I’m being honest, I assumed we’d miss Deck 11. We were loyal to it. It felt like our deck.

But we didn’t miss it.

By the second night, we were sitting on our verandah talking about how surprisingly perfect Deck 10 felt. It was quieter. Calmer. Just one deck below the energy of the pool, but far enough removed to feel like a retreat at the end of the day. For an adults-only sailing especially, that subtle shift made a noticeable difference.

What started as a spontaneous, slightly guilt-filled decision turned into one of our favorite sailings and completely changed the way we think about deck selection on the Disney Wish.

Deck 10 is just one level below Deck 11, and on paper that difference feels minimal. It’s one deck. One quick set of stairs. Practically the same location. But the experience felt different in a way we didn’t expect.

On Deck 11, you’re actually on the same deck as the pools. You don’t hear overhead chair scraping or noise above you because there isn’t a deck above. But there is constant activity around you. People heading to the pool first thing in the morning. Families grabbing breakfast. Kids running past in swimsuits. It’s energetic. It feels alive from early morning until late evening.

Deck 10 shifted that energy just enough.

We were still incredibly close. One quick flight of stairs and we were right in the middle of the action. But when we came back down, the hallway felt calmer. There wasn’t the steady flow of pool traffic outside our door. It felt more tucked away without feeling far away.

That subtle separation changed the rhythm of the day. We could spend hours in the middle of the fun — pool time, drinks, movies, water slides and then step back into a space that felt quieter and more relaxed. It made the stateroom feel more like a retreat instead of an extension of the busiest part of the ship.

And the mornings were where we really felt it. Sitting on the verandah with coffee felt slower. Instead of the buzz of people passing by headed to grab towels or claim lounge chairs, it was mostly just ocean air and movement. It wasn’t that Deck 11 was loud, but Deck 10 simply felt calmer.

It’s such a small difference on a deck map. In real life, it felt like the best of both worlds.

Deck 11 still holds a special place for us. If we’re sailing with the kids and know we’ll spend most of our time at the pools, grabbing quick bites throughout the day, and squeezing every possible minute out of deck life, Deck 11 is incredibly hard to beat. The convenience is real. Being able to step out of your stateroom and immediately be in the middle of the action makes the entire day feel effortless. When your cruise rhythm revolves around swim breaks, soda refills, and spontaneous soft serve runs, that proximity matters.

But Deck 10 surprised us in the best way. It offers almost the same access, but just one quick flight of stairs away. Yet, it feels like you’ve given yourself a little more breathing room. It’s close without being in the middle of constant movement. The stateroom feels more like a retreat at the end of the day rather than an extension of the busiest deck on the ship.

After four sailings, holiday cruises, and being convinced we had found our “forever deck,” we realized something important: there isn’t one perfect answer. There’s just the deck that fits the way you want to experience this particular cruise.

That’s the beauty of the Disney Wish. You’re not choosing right or wrong. You’re choosing the rhythm that fits your family best.

If you’re starting to dream about your own Disney Cruise Line vacation, we would love to help you plan it. Choosing the right ship, sailing date, stateroom category, and yes, even the perfect deck, can make a big difference in your overall experience. We walk families through every step so you feel confident in your decisions and excited about what’s ahead.

Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifth, planning it thoughtfully turns a great vacation into an unforgettable one. Use our contact form and let's discuss your next vacation. 

And honestly? I made plenty of mistakes when I was new to Disney.

Now, I’ve been taking my family to Disney for over 20 years. I didn’t grow up going as a kid, but my husband did, and when we had children, we chose to keep that tradition alive for them. That’s where my Disney love was born—right in the middle of motherhood, strollers, snacks, and trying to figure out how to survive a full park day without anyone melting down (including me).

Each of my kids carries a Disney Parks Loungefly backpack. We rarely pay full price for them—these make fantastic gifts for older kids, especially birthdays or holidays. Our best finds have been at Disney Character Warehouses. While the Orlando locations tend to sell out quickly, we’ve had great luck at the Sunrise outlets outside of Miami. Amazon is also a solid option if you want convenience or variety.

The backpacks are the perfect size for teens: big enough to carry essentials but not so bulky that they’re annoying on rides or in queues.

If you’ve ever visited Disney in the warmer months, you already know that the Florida heat and humidity are a brutal combination. Add in miles of walking, sweat, and long park days, and chafing becomes almost unavoidable if you’re not prepared. This is one item my family never skips, especially with teenagers who are constantly on the move.

My kids pack anti-chafing cream to prevent irritation before it starts. Whether it’s thighs, underarms, waistbands, or anywhere clothing rubs throughout the day, applying it in the morning can save a lot of discomfort later on. We’ve learned the hard way that once chafing starts, it only gets worse as the day goes on.

Disney does offer packets of anti-chafing ointment at First Aid, learn about the First Aid Centers available at Disney [HERE], but having your own on hand is much more convenient—especially if you’re not near the front of the park or don’t want to stop what you’re doing. A small stick or tube takes up hardly any room in a backpack and can make a massive difference in comfort.

It might not be the most glamorous thing to pack, but anti-chafing cream is truly a Disney essential. Staying comfortable means fewer complaints, fewer mid-day meltdowns, and more energy to actually enjoy the rides, shows, and magic.

We would love to help you plan your next trip to Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Adventures by Disney. We are a registered travel agent with Best Day Travel. As your travel agent, we will help you make the best out of your trip with no additional cost to you.

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Yes, you absolutely can bring water into Walt Disney World. You can bring reusable water bottles, disposable bottles, and even pack drinks for your kids.

That said, here’s my honest take: I usually don’t bring bottled water.

Disney makes it surprisingly easy to get free water throughout the parks, and once you know how, it can save you money and backpack space. You can refill your water bottles at refillable water fountains, and you can also get free cups of ice water at many locations.

My favorite places to grab water are quick-service restaurants. You can walk up to the counter and ask for a cup of ice water, no purchase required. You can also get water when you’re dining at a table-service restaurant, which is a given, but quick service is where it’s easiest and fastest.

I do talk more in-depth about how we never pay for water at Disney and exactly where to get it in this post [HERE], and I also share the items we bring for the kids so carrying water bottles doesn’t feel like a chore [HERE].

This one surprises people, but the answer is a big YES.

You can absolutely bring food and drinks into Walt Disney World, as long as you follow a few rules. The main one to remember is no glass containers. Other than that, you have a lot of flexibility.

I have literally packed individual lunch boxes for each of my kids, complete with snacks and drinks. Yes, even soda. (Yes, my kids are allowed to drink soda at times.)

We’ve brought our lunch boxes into the park, found a quick-service restaurant, and eaten inside in the air conditioning. This can be a lifesaver during hot afternoons when everyone needs a break.

There is one important thing to keep in mind: some quick-service locations manage seating more strictly. For example, places like ABC Commissary at Hollywood Studios or Satu’ii Canteen in Animal Kingdom usually require you to be ordering food there to sit inside. You typically can’t just walk in and claim a table.

However, many other quick-service locations are more relaxed, especially outside of peak times or super busy days. When in doubt, be respectful, check signage, and use common sense.

Small, soft-sided coolers are allowed, including:

• Backpack coolers

• Coolers that fit under strollers

  
  

What’s not allowed are coolers that need to be pulled, wagons, or hard-sided coolers that are bulky.

You also can’t bring loose ice. If you’re using ice, it needs to be bagged in a sealed plastic bag, like a Ziploc, or you can use ice packs.

One thing to keep in mind: ice packs can be tricky because many hotel mini fridges don’t have freezers. If you’re staying on property or in a hotel without a freezer, bagged ice is often the easier option.

Knowing what you can and cannot bring into Disney can make your trip much easier. Planning ahead helps you save money, stay comfortable, and avoid unnecessary stress during long park days.

Disney allows more flexibility than most people realize. Once you understand the rules and plan smart, bringing your own food, drinks, and cooler can be a great option, especially when traveling with kids in the Florida heat.

If you want more realistic Disney planning tips like this, explore the rest of the blog. Everything here is written with real families and real park days in mind.

We would love to help you plan your next trip to Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Adventures by Disney. We are a registered travel agent with Best Day Travel. As your travel agent, we will help you make the best out of your trip with no additional cost to you.

If you want to take a more DIY approach, sign up for our newsletter where we share tips and tricks or follow up on social media. 

Disney’s First Aid centers offer complimentary basic care and access to common items like bandages, ointments, and even medications. We’ve personally received Tylenol, Benadryl, and Band-Aids — all without having to leave the park or hunt down a store.

One time, one of my kiddos unexpectedly broke out in hives while we were in the park. We were able to walk right into First Aid, explain what was happening, and they provided medication right away. Another time, one of my daughters fell and scraped her knee, and First Aid cleaned it, applied ointment, and sent us on our way with a Band-Aid — no stress, no panic, and no interruption to the day.

If you’ve ever visited Disney World in the Florida heat, you already know this truth: chafing is a real issue. Between the humidity, heat, and miles of walking, it can sneak up on you fast.

One of our favorite discoveries actually came from Disney’s First Aid center at Magic Kingdom. They handed out small packets of an anti-chafing ointment that worked so well we were instantly sold. It was such a game changer that now each of my kids carries a bottle in their backpack. That’s how much we trust it.

Honestly, this alone earns Disney’s First Aid centers a 10/10 recommendation from our family.

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links to Amazon. If you make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. You’re welcome to use the links or simply use them as examples of what to look for.

If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, you need to know about Disney’s Baby Care Centers. These spaces are thoughtfully designed and incredibly helpful for families with little ones.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Changing tables

• Water

• Microwaves for bottles or baby food

• Baby essentials available for purchase

  
  

But the real secret? The quiet, dimly lit rooms with recliners and air conditioning.

If you’ve ever tried to feed or calm a baby in the middle of a busy park, you know how priceless this is. That cool, calm space can feel like a reset button for both parents and babies. If you’re visiting Disney with a baby, getting familiar with the Baby Care Centers ahead of time is an absolute must.

Disney days are long, exciting, and full of activity. Little things can turn into big problems if you’re not prepared. Knowing where First Aid and Baby Care Centers are located gives you peace of mind and helps you handle minor issues quickly so you can get back to making memories.

They’re truly some of the best-kept secrets at Walt Disney World, and once you use them, you’ll wonder how you ever did Disney without them.

We would love to help you plan your next trip to Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Adventures by Disney. We are a registered travel agent with Best Day Travel. As your travel agent, we will help you make the best out of your trip with no additional cost to you.

If you want to take a more DIY approach, sign up for our newsletter where we share tips and tricks or follow up on social media. 

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Disney does have water fountains and bottle-filling stations throughout the parks. While they’re convenient, many visitors (myself included) aren’t fans of the taste of Florida tap water so this isn’t usually our first choice unless we’re desperate.

If you’re eating at a table-service restaurant, this is an easy option. When you’re paying the bill, simply ask your server for extra cups of water and pour them into your bottle. Quick, simple, and no extra cost.

This is hands-down the best and easiest way to get free water in the parks.

Go to any quick-service restaurant and ask for cups of ice water. Disney gives these out for free at all quick-service locations. There’s usually a designated window or pickup area—just ask a Cast Member and they’ll point you in the right direction

• It takes about 3 small cups to fill a 32–40 oz water bottle.
• You can do this anytime at any open quick-service location.

Bottled water is not free at Walt Disney World unless you are part of a VIP tour or a similar upgrade. Food carts that sell popcorn, ice cream, or snacks do not offer free water, so do not stop there expecting it.

Our most common approach is using a combination of table service restaurants and quick service ice water. We only rely on fountains if we are desperate.

Save purchased water for your hotel room instead of the parks. While some hotels have water available in the lobby, it is often inconvenient unless you are staying at a value resort. We usually buy two to three large jugs of water to keep in the room.

This makes mornings easier, helps with late night hydration, and allows you to fill water bottles before heading to the parks.    

We would love to help you plan your next trip to Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or Adventures by Disney. We are a registered travel agent with Best Day Travel. As your travel agent, we will help you make the best out of your trip with no additional cost to you.

If you want to take a more DIY approach, sign up for our newsletter where we share tips and tricks or follow up on social media. 

If you are not ready to book yet but want ongoing tips and tricks for Disney travel, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media.

First things first, you will need a good water bottle.

I usually bring a 32- or 40-ounce bottle. I drink around 64–100 ounces of water a day, so a small bottle just doesn’t work for me. I don’t want to spend my whole day refilling it.

I also don’t recommend going any bigger than that. Once it’s full, it gets heavy, and carrying a massive bottle around Disney all day is not fun.

We have a rule in our house: no strollers after age 7. All of my kids are older now, so we don’t use one anymore.

Instead, we use water bottle carriers.

They make a huge difference. The weight is easier to manage, your hands are free, and you’re not constantly switching the bottle from one hand to the other. If you’re walking the parks all day without a stroller, I highly recommend one.

If you do have a stroller, then you need carabiners. Period.

Digging around in the bottom of a stroller is annoying, and it feels like everything you need is always at the very bottom. Carabiners make it easy to clip bags, water bottles, or random stuff you pick up during the day so it’s all right there when you need it.

They’re cheap, simple, and way more helpful than you’d expect.

This is my last tip, and honestly one of my favorites.

I personally use sugar-free Liquid IV. I drink a lot of water normally, but when I’m walking around Disney all day, I know I’m not getting enough electrolytes. I usually finish my afternoon or evening with one, and it helps a lot.

My kids don’t like Liquid IV, so I pack Gatorade drink mix packets for them instead. 

Is this necessary? No.

Does it save me from buying $6 Gatorades all day? Absolutely.

Call me cheap if you want, but when you go as often as we do, I’m not paying that.

These are perfect because:

• They’re lightweight

• Easy to toss into backpacks

• No need to buy expensive park drinks

  
  

I throw a few packets into each child’s bag for the day. When they want something other than plain water, they just mix it with the free water we get at Disney.

You can absolutely save money at Disney World using free water alone.

But these items make the experience more convenient, more comfortable, and far less annoying, especially on long, hot park days.

My family and I have been going to Walt Disney World for over 20 years. We started with annual trips when our kids were little, and we moved to Florida almost 10 years ago.

Now we’re annual passholders, frequent Disney Cruise Line travelers, and in the parks regularly.

I wouldn’t call myself high maintenance, but I do hate being inconvenienced when I’m trying to enjoy a vacation. Everything I share is stuff we actually use—not things that sound good on paper.

We’d love to help you plan your next trip to:

• Walt Disney World

• Disneyland

• Disney Cruise Line

• Adventures by Disney

  
  

We are a registered travel agent with Best Day Travel, and our services come at no additional cost to you. We’ll help you make the most of your trip while saving time, money, and stress.

If you prefer a DIY approach, be sure to:

• Sign up for our newsletter

• Follow us on social media

  
  

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