Moms Talk: Tips for Disney Travel

Lee Elkins June 1, 2011 at 04:53 pm

We haven't been to Disney, but we do go on planes to visit family. I pack snacks (no liquids so we get through security) and dollar store toys for the kids in their backpacks. They aren't allowed to open them until liftoff, which keeps them busy for a while.
I would love to hear Disney advice! Someday we'll get there.

Sandy Hook June 2, 2011 at 10:29 am

Disney advice-- never, never, ever, go in the summertime or Christmas break!

Adria L. Henderson June 2, 2011 at 11:25 am

Having been to Disney twice with my children/grandchildren, the most important advice I can offer is to ---NEVER go during the summer – or during any holiday. But, if you’re already on your way , there are two major issues to deal with - lines and money. Most parents remember to bring all sorts of activities for the plane ride, but may not realize that you have to stand in line for many rides for more than an hour-no place to sit, nothing to eat, and it’s really hot! I would suggest getting “express passes” immediately for any rides that offer them and to bring activities and drinks for young children. Having to stand in line with a hot, tired four-year-old and no way out is not fun. With older children I would definitely suggest working out a daily limit for gifts/toys with them before the trip. There are gift shops every time you turn around!

Greg Antonelle June 2, 2011 at 01:32 pm

I have lots & lots of tips!! Happy to help anyone looking for answers to questions or interested in possibly planning a trip...it's more cost friendly than one would imagine and there are great deals/discounts/free dining available now. Please feel free to reach out for all of MickeyTravels' FREE services!
Elyssa Antonelle MickeyTravels, LLC 1-888-812-8750 elyssa@mickeytravels.com www.mickeytravels.com "Making Magic One Vacation at a Time..."

Dilma June 3, 2011 at 06:51 pm

Don't go in the summer, ever. Too hot and humid. Go during spring break - but only if the local schools have spring break on a different week (which they usually do). Be flexible, don;t go to the park on a day when everyone is tired - do something different in the middle of the trip. And plan something fun for rain days.

Mandy June 15, 2011 at 09:01 pm

We just returned on our 22nd Disney trip ... 8th for our Teen, 9th for our 7 year old pirate, and the 6th trip for our 5 year old princess!! Stayed at all but two Disney hotels and have eaten at least 85% of restaurants/dining areas ... Best advice (like Dilma): avoid holidays and summers; be very flexible yet have plenty of plans (i.e. dining rez)--I overplan but leave it to how everyone feels that very day, I leave it open to suggestion as well, and I also would advise to stay on Disney property-the Disney hotels themselves are practically a park on their own with lots of family activities to boot!!
Flying advice: Nintendo DS is my saving grace with my son (we've flown to CA too), I bring two polly pockets with clothes/drawing tools for my youngest, and my oldest brings a book. Each carry their own backpack filled with their 'stuff' and goodies. (Airlines don't have much selection anymore in the snack department). We also bring the portable DVD player. When the kids were younger, I also brought play-doh and made plenty of visits to the bathroom (my kids loved to see themselves in the mirror and play with the water! As parents, we have to remember that keeping the kids entertained is the utmost importance. I always bring a book/magazine for my self but understand that I might not see a page of it!! Even at the kids ages now, I rarely get to read on my own. I'm more concerned to keep them happy and QUIET!! :) I get compliments ALL the time from fellow passengers!