Disney may be the most magical place on earth, but all the pixie dust in the world can’t get rid of that dreaded Florida heat. In the summer months (and even into early fall), you have to prepare for 100+ degree days and high humidity – but don’t let that stop you! If you know how to stay cool at Walt Disney World, you’re bound to have an amazing trip – regardless of the weather!

1. Schedule Accordingly

With the extreme heat that you may experience, you won’t want to be criss-crossing the park all day. Instead, try to do all of the attractions in one area and then move on to the next – that way you avoid walking outside for long periods of time! Also, keep in mind that like anywhere, mid-afternoon is going to be the hottest time of day. Try to reserve indoor shows, rides, and attractions for this time so that you can get a much needed AC break! On days where you’ll be rope dropping and staying late, consider booking a sit down meal so that you can cool off for a longer period of time. And if you want to catch a longer, outdoor show – especially one where shade may be limited (think the castle show) – try to go early so that you aren’t standing outside in the peak sun!

2. Free Water

Buying water at Disney is expensive! And when temperatures are upwards of 100 degrees, you definitely need to stay hydrated. One option is to buy a large 24-pack of water bottles from Walmart or Publix, but that still requires you actually going to the store and then lugging 8 or 10 water bottles around with you all day. Our tip? Bring a reusable bottle! There are water fountains all over the parks that you can use to refill – and even better is that you can get a free cup of ice water from any quick service restaurant! Ask for a couple, pour them into your bottle, and you have an ice cold refreshment for free!

3. Change of Clothes

Walking around a theme park all day in 95 degree weather and 100% humidity means that you’re bound to get sweaty and sticky. Consider bringing a change of clothes – or at least a change of undergarments! You’d be shocked at how refreshing it can feel to throw on a dry pair of shorts or a fresh pair of underwear.

4. Water Rides

If you’re used to visiting Walt Disney World in the cooler months, you may be a little weary of water rides. Being wet and cold isn’t fun! But if you’re heading down in the summer months, take advantage of the water rides – it doesn’t ever get cool (even at night), so you don’t have to worry about being chilly. The water actually feels really refreshing and you’ll dry off quickly! If anything, just avoid wearing jean shorts that day, or toss a pair of athletic shorts in your bag that you can wear while on the ride.

5. Bring a Fan

Fans are an easy, underrated way to stay cool! Disney sells misting fans at the parks, but we recommend buying and bringing your own in order to save money. Amazon has lots of small, handheld fans that are easy to throw in a bag (and are a favorite of Mouselets 2 and 3), as well as handheld, folding fans (a favorite of Mouselet 1 – they’re more effective than you’d think!)

6. Resort Time

It can be easy to want to spend every second of your time at the parks, but don’t forget about your resort! Whether you’re staying on or off property, your hotel almost definitely has a pool – and sometimes, a quick dip is exactly what you need to cool down and relax! Setting aside a few hours mid-day to head back and take a swim is a great way to beat the heat and make sure that you don’t tire yourself out prematurely.

What’s your favorite way to stay cool at Walt Disney World? Let us know in the comments!