11. Cool down with a mister

It can get really, really hot standing still for hours at a time waiting in various ride lines. Even though there are several large misters spread throughout the park, a personal fan mister works much better, not to mention is available on an as needed basis. A sports cooling towel also works wonders. You basically soak the towel in water and then wrap it around your neck and it works surprisingly well.

Hot waiting line with misters at Universal Orlando

12. Wear athletic apparel

Jeep from Jurassic Park at Islands of Adventure

If you plan on going on a lot of water rides, you may want to wear your workout attire, which will dry much faster than regular clothing. If you are the type of person who can’t stand to be damp all day (and you will be wet for a while in the humid climate), this is definitely the route to go.

Shorts and gym shoes are a must: I wore leggings a few times and was still quite hot.

There are dry stations located throughout the park, however, they are a bit pricey. I prefer to go on water rides mid-day (just avoid air conditioned shops at this time).

13. Use a waterproof phone/camera cover

Waterproof covers will allow you to take your camera and phones on the rides with you as opposed to storing them in a locker. Or just place these items in a Ziploc bag and throw them in your pocket. Another great idea is to wear a waterproof fanny pack. I saw several people walking around the park with these. Not the most attractive option, but you’ll be comfortable and prepared!

Note that you will need to store everything in a locker for some rides like the Hulk and the Harry Potter rides. They are free, but it’s a bit time consuming.

Water ride at Islands of Adventure in Orlando

14. Plan on getting in a lot of miles (wear gym shoes, not flip flops)

If you spend a full day at the parks, you should play on getting in anywhere between 20,000-30,000 steps. I wear my FitBit every day and track my mileage. Most days I average around 7-9 miles and 25-28,000 steps. You will get in more or less depending on your personal stride, how much time you stand in line, how many breaks you take, if you use the park-to-park train option, etc.

Although flip flops are more attractive, the smarter choice is to lace up your sneakers. Gym shoes provide more traction, allowing you to move much quicker through the parks (helpful if you are trying to rush to a ride at park opening). A

lso, walking in flip flops on a rainy day is a big no-no! Trust me, I almost slipped at least 10 times! Also gym shoes will help prevent dreaded blisters! All the people in our party who wore flip flops had painful blisters the rest of the trip.

15. Bring with snacks

Fortunately, the parks allow you to carry snacks and drinks into the parks. This can help you save a few bucks as the restaurants are really pricey. I bring trail mix and several mini bags of chips and crackers, plus a few Gatorlyte packets that I can easily add to water.

Typically, I eat a large breakfast at the resort, plan a big lunch later in the day, and just snack and maybe get a butterbeer or ice cream to hold me over as opposed to paying for a big lunch and dinner. Don’t pack anything that might melt i.e. anything with chocolate.