Download the Disneyland app and link your tickets

Make dining reservations 60 days in advance

Check height requirements for your group members

Book parking or arrange hotel transportation

Lightning Lane Multi Pass is available from 7am day-of — buy early for best ride selection

Individual Lightning Lane for Star Wars and Radiator Springs sells out fastest — have payment ready

Book new LL passes as soon as your current one is scanned, not when the window opens

Park hopping is available after 11am — you must have entered your original park first

Confirm your ticket type includes park hopper — single-day tickets typically do not

Comfortable walking shoes — you'll average 8-12 miles per day

Portable battery pack — your phone will be working hard all day

Sunscreen, hats, and rain ponchos (Southern California can surprise you)

Refillable water bottle — free water is available at quick service locations

Small backpack or crossbody — lockers are available but slow you down

Place mobile orders 30-45 minutes before you want to eat — arrival windows fill up fast at peak times

Set up payment in the Disneyland app before your trip to avoid fumbling at mealtime

Avoid ordering from Galactic Grill and Rancho del Zocalo at noon — extremely busy

Disney PhotoPass photographers are found at icon locations — scan your ticket to link photos

Memory Maker / PhotoPass+ bundle saves money if you plan to buy photos — purchase before your trip

Arrive at park gates 30 minutes before official opening for rope drop advantage

Head to back of park first — most guests rush toward the front at opening

Take a mid-afternoon break at your hotel — return after 5pm when crowds thin