This Disney World Hack Will Keep You Cool While Waiting For Your Favorite Rides

Summers in Walt Disney World are not for the weak. The most magical place on Earth, which sees over 50 million tourists each year, can easily turn into the most awful with a daily weather average of 90 to 95°F in June through August. If you're not used to the heat and humidity, your dream Disney vacation can turn into a nightmare. Luckily, there are plenty of tips for a stress-free Disney World vacation that help you escape the heat, from seeking air-conditioned rides and shows or packing a neck fan to keep you cool through long lines. But one of the Disney World vacation tricks and hacks only insiders know involves leaving the parks altogether.

It may seem like a silly idea given how much you probably spent on park tickets, but you will be thankful you did it once you realize you're safe from the midday heat and afternoon rain. Arrive at the parks early, preferably before they even open, and knock out as many rides and attractions as you can while the wait times and the sun are at their lowest. Around lunch time, when the crowds start to pick up and the sun is unforgiving, make a beeline for the exit. You can explore the neighboring Disney hotels, which are easily accessible by Disney transportation such as the buses, ferries, or monorail, have some lunch in a nice, air-conditioned restaurant, or do some shopping at Disney Springs. Or you can take a break from the thrills and relax at your hotel, maybe even recharge with a nap.

Once the heat has died down, usually toward the early evening, you can make your way back into the parks to finish off your day with the remaining rides on your list or with a nighttime show. Not only will this hack help you stay cool during your Disney World vacation, but it will give you a change to replenish your energy and finish the day off strong.

It's totally understandable if you're reluctant to leave the parks and miss out on getting your money's worth. There are plenty of ways you can still escape the heat while staying inside the park gates. The first and probably most important step is to plan ahead. Check the weather before you leave, understand that Florida in the summer is prone to random rainstorms, and pack accordingly. Bring plenty of sunscreen, and reapply it throughout the day. Pack hats, sunglasses, lightweight and quick-drying clothes, and accessories such as cooling towels, neck fans, misting fans, or even UV-blocking umbrellas.

As excited as you may be to explore the parks and experience everything they have to offer, remember to take it slow so you don't literally and figuratively burn out. I almost passed out in EPCOT during my first Disney World trip because I underestimated the humidity, neglected to hydrate, and was too focused on knocking out rides and attractions.

Take breaks when the heat gets too high. Take shelter inside indoor attractions, stores, and restaurants, drink plenty of water, and pace yourself. If you don't want to constantly pay, there are water refill stations throughout the parks, and most quick-service restaurants offer free cups of ice water. You can also find plenty of cold or frozen treats at most dining locations and carts throughout the parks.

Another great way to stay cool at Disney World without leaving the parks is to take advantage of indoor attractions. Go on long rides, experience water-based attractions (as long as you're okay with getting soaked), or watch indoor shows where you can enjoy the Disney magic and air conditioning. Here are some suggestions for each park:

Magic Kingdom: Tiana's Bayou Adventure, Pirates of the Caribbean, Carousel of Progress, It's a Small World, and Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor. Hollywood Studios: For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure, and Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway. Animal Kingdom: Festival of the Lion King, Kali River Rapids, Na'vi River Journey, and the Animation Experience at Conservation Station.

EPCOT: Spaceship Earth, Living with the Land, Soarin' Around the World, The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Gran Fiesta Tour, Moana: Journey of Water, Awesome Planet, The American Adventure, Canada Far and Wide, Turtle Talk with Crush, Beauty and the Beast Sing Along, and Impressions de France. Following these tips for beating the heat will only make your time at Disney World better.