With Power Ball jackpot dreams swirling around in everyone’s heads, one of the most discussed “what would you do scenarios?” I heard was, “take a long vacation” or even, “buy a home in Golden Oaks.” As the harsh reality of not being billionaires hit us all returning to the daily grind Monday morning, I couldn’t help but think of ways to soften the blow. For my family, a case of Disney Vacation Blues is always present in between our trips “home.” It seems from the moment we board the tragical…er, Magical Express we are planning our next Pixie-Dusted adventure. To help get you through the span, no matter how long, here are my favorite ways to help ease the Disney Vacation Blues.
1. Watch The Disney Vacation Planning Videos Online
Watching the online planning videos is a great way to remember the fun of your last vacation or get excited about your next. I don’t know how often my family gathers around and watches them like a movie. It’s always one of the first requested from the kiddos and I adore that they love it so much. It’s wonderful that they include both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort as well as other Disney Vacation ideas like Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney and even Disney Vacation Club. You can view them all at DisneyPlanning.com.
2. Start Saving
Even if it can’t be much or you have no idea when your next trip will be, it’s always fun to know you’re saving for something. To add a little Disney to it, use old popcorn buckets or decorate jars with stickers or photos from previous vacations. Have fun with it! This way the whole family knows what you’re saving for and can see the jar filling up.
3. Create Your Favorite Disney Drink Or Dish At Home
There are several Disney cookbooks available, but if you don’t have one, you can find plenty of recipes and Disney “copycats” online. The Disney Parks Blog sometimes posts recipes for favorite dishes and I often post Disney Drink Of The Day posts with all of the ingredients to make your favorite Disney cocktails.
4. Order A Surprise From Disney Floral & Gifts
This one may be a little expensive, but if you’re feeling exceptionally blue, or if you are wanting a very special way to celebrate a special occasion or accomplishment it is perfect. There is nothing like receiving a piece of the magic straight from the source with Disney Floral & Gifts. This little beauty showed up on my doorstep not too long ago and it was incredible, maybe even unforgettable.
5. Keep Up With The Disney News And Announcements On The Disney Parks Blog
Speaking of The Disney Parks Blog, keep informed on all the latest Disney news and announcements by subscribing to their email updates. Not only is this a great way to know right when the latest Special Offers are announced, but they also offer information on new attractions, new merchandise and even offer occasional live stream events.
6. Browse Questions And Answers On The Disney Parks Moms Panel
Before I was a panelist I often visited the Disney Parks Moms Panel dreaming of helping Guests while learning valuable information for my next vacation. As a panelist I constantly learned new things and updated my knowledge to keep up with the ever changing Disney Parks. I especially love using the Panel to learn about other Disney vacation options like Disneyland and the Disney Cruise line…I mean does it get any butter..er..better. Check out this answer from Diane W. and you’ll understand.
7. Make Some Disney Sweet Treats
Baking always puts me in a good mood, so what’s better than baking delicious Disney treats? Pinterest is filled with clever ideas and cute treats your family will love.
8. Order A Disney Parks Authentic Spa Or Bath Collection From Disneystore.com
Scent is an incredible catalyst for memories, so this is one of my favorites. Once your travel size bottles you may have snagged as a souvenir start running low, you can purchase bigger bottles straight from the Disney Store. They also have many collections, so try them all out and pick your Disney favorite.
9. Create Fun Disney Crafts Together Or Use Disney Activity Sheets
We love craft time in my family. You can create a Disney blanket, perhaps a Disney photo collage, Disney soaps, luminaries like these, you name it, the list goes on and on.
Also, there are hundreds of Disney coloring and activity sheets available which are great to give the kids while you are making dinner or getting some work done. I have posted a few here, but again Pinterest has several and you can follow my Disney boards by clicking here.
10. Price The Possibilities
Last. but not least, don’t be afraid to price the possibilities. Look for vacations in the “slow” season, usually January-February or September-October. Also, watch the Special Offers page to see the latest deals and discounts. You can also use the Disney Vacation Account to price out your vacation and see just how much and how often you’ll have to save to get there. There have been many times when I thought a Disney Vacation was just not in the budget, but with a special deal and the right planning we have been able to manage unbelievable, unforgettable vacations.
This post was updated from the original dated Jan 2016.
Paula Kiger (Big Green Pen)
Great ideas! I just left yesterday. There’s never enough time!
Lauren
Never, Paula! It always goes way too fast!
Tania
Great tips! I’m always dreaming of Disney!
Lauren
Thanks girl! You know it!
Amy Crooks
So many fun ideas!!! Great post! 🙂 Have a nice week!
Lauren
Thanks, Amy! Anything to help spread out the magic!