It’s finally happening, friends — after three long, non-magical years, I’m heading back to Disneyland! Well… in two weeks, to be exact. Which means I’ve got just enough time to romanticize the planning, obsess over every detail, and pretend I’m going to fully Disneybound this trip.
Do I want to Disneybound? Absolutely yes, with my whole heart.
Do I think I actually will? Ehhhh… probably not. The vision is vivid, the Pinterest boards are thriving, the vibes are vibing — but the execution? Questionable at best. 😅✨
Still, the excitement is real. This time it’s just me and Hector, and my heart is already sprinting down Main Street. The anticipation feels like warm nostalgia and fresh magic all at once, and I can’t wait to step back into it.
Packing Essentials: My Disneyland Checklist
Packing for Disney is basically a sport… and I refuse to lose. Here’s what’s coming with me, no negotiations:
- Water Bottle – Because dehydration is NOT the vibe.
- Sunscreen – Protecting my skin like it’s Sleeping Beauty’s castle.
- Wallet – For Mickey-shaped everything. I will not resist.
- Snacks – When the line is long and the attitude is short.
- Disinfectant & Baby Wipes – Clean hands, clean face, clean spirit.
- Pain Relief – My feet and back will file complaints otherwise.
- Hand Sanitizer – The germ gremlins are real.
- Sweater – Because evenings at Disney have a chill that sneaks up like a villain reveal.
- Extra Shirt – For Splash Mountain… or unexpected sweat. 😅
- Portable Charger – If my phone dies, I die. Drama intended.
I’ve learned the hard way: a prepared Disney adult is a happy Disney adult.
This trip: No Lightning Lane. No Genie+.
But honestly? I’m leaning into it. It feels… classic. Vintage. Raw Disney energy. ✨
Planning the Perfect Day (Without Lightning Lane or Genie+)
1. Rope Drop = Immediate Main Character Mode
We’re showing up bright and early—like “the sun isn’t even awake yet” early.
First stops:
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Space Mountain
- Star Tours
Nothing like starting your day by being launched through space before breakfast. 🛸
2. Peak Hours = Slow Rides, Chill Vibes
Once the crowds decide to invade, we pivot.
We sink into the classics:
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Haunted Mansion
- It’s a Small World
Low waits, cool air, iconic vibes… it’s a full reset button.
3. Take Breaks (Your Body Will Thank You)
I’m embracing my “cozy Disney era” this year.
Break options include:
- A relaxing loop on the Disneyland Railroad
- Cooling off with Mickey’s PhilharMagic
- Going full zen mode in The Tiki Room
- Or hiding in the AC at Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln
Disney isn’t a sprint—it’s a whimsical, magical marathon.
4. Single Rider Lines = The Secret Squirrel Strategy
Especially for:
- Space Mountain
- Radiator Springs Racers (in DCA)
It’s like cheating… but ethically.
Evening Strategy: After-Dark Disney Hits Different
Once the sun sets, the park gets sparkly and the waits magically shrink. That’s when we double back to hit:
- Pirates
- Haunted Mansion
- Rise of the Resistance (a non-negotiable spiritual experience)
Even without Genie+, night rides just hit. Like the soundtrack swells, the breeze gets cooler, and suddenly I’m 8 years old again.
The Must-Eats: Snack Royalty
Let’s talk about the REAL reason we’re here:
THE SNACKS.
- Cheese on a Stick from Corndog Castle – one word: DIVINE. 🧀
- Waffle-Cristo – sweet, crispy, savory chaos and I love her.
Disney snacks are personality traits and I stand by this.
Experiencing Disneyland “Solo” (Sort Of!)
Even though Hector’s coming with me, there’s something so freeing about going without a big group. No coordinating, no debates, no “what do we do next?” chaos.
It’s just:
- me
- Hector
- vibes
- and the whole park waiting for us
This time, I’m the tour guide—and I can’t wait to share all my favorite rides, hidden corners, and snack stops with him. It feels like reliving old magic while making brand new memories.
No Genie+? No Lightning Lane?
Honestly… I think this might be my favorite way to do Disneyland.
With a little strategy, a lot of snacks, early mornings, happy feet, and chilled-out afternoon breaks, the day becomes exactly what it should be:
✨ magical
✨ stress-free
✨ unforgettable
Three years away was way too long. Last time we went, it was full-on COVID rules—masks were mandatory, everything felt a little restricted, and the vibe was… cautious, to say the least. But this time? No masks, no limits, just pure, unfiltered Disneyland magic. I’m ready for nostalgia, new memories, and maybe a few happy tears on Main Street. Let’s do this. 🌟
If you’ve been recently, what’s your must-do? Any secret tips I should steal? Drop them below!
