Fear not- I have made all of the mistakes at Halloween Horror Nights, so you don’t have to. From arriving late, picking the wrong party night, and not securing those express passes I will walk you through all of the things you need to ensure you have a ghouling good time.

If you are not familiar with HHN at Universal, it is hands down the most exhilarating adult catered Halloween fun. The atmosphere at HHN is electrifying, with every corner holding a new thrill or scare waiting to surprise you. The haunted houses are meticulously designed from popular horror movies and their own twisted creations to immerse you in a world of horror, where every detail is crafted to send shivers down your spine. The scare zones are like stepping into a nightmare come to life, with creatures and ghouls lurking in the shadows, ready to give you a fright. It’s an experience unlike any other, perfect for those who love a good adrenaline rush and a healthy dose of fear.

Let’s get started with the most common mistakes that new and even experienced thrill seekers make when attending to ensure you have a killer good time.

10) Not booking early

While last minute vacation plans have been all the rage within the last few years, I have seen an uptick in vacations booking as soon as pricing is released leaving those clients who like to wait to book SOL. Booking early ensures you get everything you want and need to make your trip successful. You don’t want to be stranded without your tickets to this premier event.

9) Wearing the wrong attire

I know its Halloween and true fanatics love dressing up but that’s a big no-no for HHN. No costumes are allowed inside the parks for safety and security purposes. Also keep in mind that in your haunted houses you are not allowed to wear any bright light up accessories such as glow necklaces, rings, bracelets, flashlights, etc. Make sure you put your phone in your pocket as well as you are not allowed to record in the houses.

8) Riding the rides

I have seen a plethora of people standing in line for those popular rollercoasters (like Rip Ride Rockit) but there is just too much to enjoy and do at this limited event to waste your time like that. Ride those rides during your park days and leave the screaming to the houses.

7) Not grabbing the themed snacks

Universal has themed specialty snacks that cater to each scare zone or haunted house that is unique each year. One of my favorite things to do between heart racing scares is to grab a drink and a snack to munch on while we head through the scare zones to our next twisted adventure. This also gives my blood pressure a much needed break.

6) Arriving Late

The doors open early and the lines to get in rival those of TSA without precheck at your international airports (LOL) so make sure you book a stay and scream package OR get there at least an hour prior to opening.

5) Going with the wrong crowd

This event is no joke- it even has a disclaimer that it’s not suitable for those under 13. While all are welcome to join in on the fun children and even some adults may find this event too intense. I’m a haunt mess going through these houses and I apologize ahead of time when I run away from you cause I’m in flight mode but it’s the best time you will ever have. Just make sure you grab the right ghoul gang to enjoy your night with.

4) Not making a list of must-dos

Universal slowly releases information of all the killer things to do and see during the event and if you don’t pick your favorite must do houses you may end up frightfully disappointed that you had to miss them. Lines to the houses can be long, like 60–90-minute wait, long. So, make sure you know which of the 10 haunted houses are top priority to you.

3) Not staying at a Universal property

Let’s face it though, why would you stay anywhere else? Universal’s resorts offer a range of perks when you stay with them such as the HHN ticket package that will have you staying, screaming and saving! This package comes with a hotel stay, 3-park ticket, Halloween Horror Nights event ticket, and early park admission, along with savings up to $200. PLUS, if you stay onsite, you get access to special photo opportunities at select resorts (whether you are staying there or not.)

2) Skipping the Express Passes

I know, I know the price for these magical golden tickets can be well- pricey but honestly, they are worth every penny. The only thing scarier than the houses are the wait times and NOT purchasing the express pass still haunts me to this day. Budget this in especially if you are only going one night and let those wait times scare everyone else.

1)Not booking with me!

Listen I know some people think travel agents aren’t for them but I’m a firm believer that they just haven’t found the right fit yet! Not all travel agents are built the same- some do less, some do more. My biggest piece of advice is to find a travel agent who has traveled to your destination or has personally booked a lot of travel of that certain type (cruise, all inclusive, theme park, etc.) It makes the biggest difference. I have personally been to Halloween Horror Nights and Universal Studios more times than I can count. Let me be your ultimate guide! I’m just creepin’ it real….