As an outdoorswoman and veteran of multi-day, multi-sport adventure races, long mountain runs, and hundreds of competitive events of all sorts, let me tell you: There is no difference between a successful adventure and mastering a Disney park. They both require research, planning, strategizing, rising before dawn, navigating smart routes, moving fast and light, competitiveness, problem-solving, outwitting competitors, on-the-go fueling, sheer endurance, knowing when to rest and when to push, and critical gear choices. Lacking any of these skills at a busy amusement park can result in hours of standing in lines, money wasted, meltdowns by teammates (family members) and yourself, and, worse, lost quality time with your kids—of any age. What’s more, putting your outdoor skills to use to “beat out” thousands of “regular” park visitors is wildly rewarding (did I mention competitiveness?).
As I planned a recent visit to Disney World with my two sons during spring break, you better believe I used my knowledge of gear and adventuring to thoroughly research what outdoor apparel and equipment would give me an…
