# Trip Helper

> Real-time Disneyland decision support. Provides fast, mobile-optimized responses for wait time decisions, attraction closures, dining options, and energy management.

- Skill: `gautamarora/trip-helper` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add gautamarora/trip-helper`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/gautamarora/trip-helper/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: gautamarora (https://skillmd.com/u/gautamarora)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/gautamarora/trip-helper

---


# Trip Helper

Real-time support while at Disneyland. Optimized for mobile.

## Quick Start (Phase 2: During Trip)

**If you have time, quickly scan:**
1. [`trip-details.md`](../../trip-details.md) - Party composition, must-dos, constraints
2. [`trip-decisions.md`](../../trip-decisions.md) - Strategic priorities
3. Quick reference guides in `../../plans/guides/`

**Focus on speed:** Mobile-friendly responses, SHORT answers, clear next steps.

**Update as you go:**
- Track spending in `../../plans/budget/budget-tracker.md`
- Note memorable moments for trip-storyteller later

## Available Resources

Quick reference to resources (if needed during real-time decisions):

- **Web URLs:** [`resources/web-urls.md`](../../resources/web-urls.md)
  - Quick tips for specific attractions or situations
  - Disney tips database for insider recommendations

These resources are optional during trip execution - focus on speed and mobile-friendly responses first.

## Response Format

**CRITICAL:** All responses must be concise and mobile-friendly:
- Recommendation in 1 sentence
- Brief justification (2-3 sentences max)
- 2-3 alternatives
- Clear next steps

**Example:**
```markdown
## Recommendation
Head to Haunted Mansion now (15 min wait) then lunch at Red Rose Taverne.

## Why
Space Mountain is down. Haunted Mansion has lowest wait in Fantasyland. Red Rose has mobile order nearby.

## Alternatives
1. Pirates (20 min wait, also nearby)
2. Early lunch, browse shops until reservation

## Next Steps
- Walk to Haunted Mansion
- Mobile order lunch for 12:45 pickup
- Check Space Mountain in 30 min
```

## Decision Support Types

**Time-Based:**
- "We have X minutes before [reservation/show]"
- Wait time analysis - is this line worth it?
- Schedule running behind - what to skip?
- Extra time available - bonus suggestions

**Situational Pivoting:**
- Attraction closed - similar experience nearby
- Weather change - indoor alternatives
- Energy crash - quick recovery options
- Budget overage - cost-saving adjustments
- Crowd surge - less crowded alternatives

**Quick Lookups:**
- Nearest restroom/first aid/baby care
- Mobile order food nearby
- Character meet locations and times
- Best photo spots for current location

## Priority Ranking

1. Safety and basic needs (rest, food, restroom)
2. Time-sensitive commitments (reservations, shows)
3. Must-do experiences not yet completed
4. Opportunistic additions (low waits)
5. Nice-to-haves and exploration

## Energy Assessment

- **High**: Full itinerary, maximize experiences
- **Medium**: Selective additions, built-in breaks
- **Low**: Essentials only, lots of rest
- **Crisis**: Immediate exit to hotel/quiet space

## Special Scenarios

**Kid Meltdown:**
1. Nearest quiet space (First Aid, Baby Care, hotel)
2. Snack/drink recommendation
3. 15-30 min rest suggestion
4. Low-stimulation activity next
5. Modified evening plan if needed

**Budget Emergency:**
1. Freeze non-essential spending
2. Free entertainment (parades, shows, exploring)
3. Water fountain locations
4. Souvenir postponement strategies

**Weather Emergency:**
1. Indoor attractions: Pirates, Haunted Mansion, "it's a small world", Star Tours
2. Covered areas: Main Street shops, New Orleans Square
3. Indoor show times
4. Early hotel return option

**Lost Child:**
1. Stay calm
2. Nearest Cast Member or City Hall
3. Note last known location
4. Establish meeting point for future

## Key Locations

| Need | Location |
|------|----------|
| First Aid | Main Street USA |
| Baby Care | Main Street USA |
| Lost Children | City Hall |
| Quiet Space | Baby Care, hotel lobby |

## Best Practices

- Keep responses SHORT and SCANNABLE
- Lead with action, explain after
- Always provide 2-3 alternatives
- Consider current energy state
- Respect budget constraints
- Remember: this is a vacation, fun matters

## Trip Tracker Updates

**During trip usage, periodically update trip-tracker.md:**

1. Mark Phase 2 deliverables as active or complete:
   - [x] Real-time decision support (ongoing during trip)
   - [ ] Budget tracking → `plans/budget/budget-tracker.md`
   - [ ] Memory capture (notes, photos)

2. Update the Phase 2 status:
   - When trip starts: **Phase 2: During Trip** ⏳ Active
   - Update Trip Status phase to "Active"

3. If budget tracker is being actively updated:
   - Check the budget tracking box

4. Add significant events to Recent Activity log:
   ```
   - YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM: Trip started - Day 1 at Disneyland
   - YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM: Significant event (ride breakdown, changed plans, etc.)
   ```

5. Note memorable moments or challenges for trip-storyteller later

See [`trip-tracker-rules.md`](../../trip-tracker-rules.md) for complete update specification.

**Note:** Updates during active trip should be lightweight. Focus on fast responses first, tracking second.