11 Tips To Know Before Bringing Your Stroller to Disney
One of FlipFlopWeekend’s most popular posts is the Top 10 Most Recommended Strollers For Your Disney Vacation. That post is a good reference if you are wondering which stroller to bring or purchase before your next Disney trip.
But, there are still a few other tips you should know to manage your Disney stroller while on vacation.
Know the size of your stroller
This last spring, Disney updated its stroller policy mentioning that strollers could not be larger than 31 in wide and 52 in long. If the stroller you are planning on hauling to Disney does not meet the size requirements, you’re going to want to make sure you have one that does.
Be able to easily identify your stroller
It’s funny to realize how much your stroller looks like so. many. others when you see them in the sea of strollers at a Disney park.
Try to put some type of an identifying feature on the stroller. This could be a colorful luggage tag, some type of sign with your name on it or even a ribbon or bow around the handlebar. This will help you quickly spot your stroller, and even prevent somebody else from accidentally taking your stroller thinking it’s theirs.
Consider investing in a tracking device
Some may consider this a little over-the-top but it’s worth contemplating. Sometimes, at Disney, incidents that are not so magical occur.
Sorry to burst your bubble.
As mentioned above, it’s possible that someone accidentally takes your stroller thinking it’s theirs. But, it’s also possible that it’s not an accident. Tracking devices can easily be attached to stroller are relatively affordable on Amazon and may be worth investing in if your stroller is of the more expensive variety. The Tile seems to be a popular option for Disney mamas.
Bonus, you can put a tile on special items that you worry losing, like a special stuffed animal, cell phone or keys.
Even if your stroller is not stolen, it’s not uncommon for Disney cast members to move your stroller around in the stroller parking areas to make way for guests walking through.
So you may come out of an attraction and not be able to find your stroller as quickly as you would like— in which case of tracking device can come in handy.
Don’t leave valuables in your stroller
Also along the lines of safety and security, don’t leave valuables in your stroller.
Anything like a wallet passport, or even your Disney Magic bands and tickets should be with you at all times.
Put simply, if you don’t want to potentially lose it, don’t leave it in the stroller.
Remember, items like stuffed animals and Disney costumes can be replaced, although it may be expensive. But, losing important travel documents and credit cards can take a lot of time out of your vacation to try to recover.
A small mini backpack may be just enough to keep your valuables with you and can generally be taken on most Disney attractions.
Make sure your stroller can easily collapse
You’ll be required to collapse your stroller to get on trams and buses. Having a stroller that is lightweight and easy to fold will make this process significantly easier.
You may be able to walk your stroller with your child in it onto the Disney Monorail. However, if it is a busy time of day and the monorail is packed you may find it is better to collapse your stroller to help you squeeze in.
Prepare For Disney Weather
The weather at Walt Disney World is pretty unpredictable. If you travel during peak months of May to November, you can almost guarantee at least one rainfall a day. Some days maybe harder than others.
This doesn’t have to ruin your trip, but even if you are in an indoor attraction your stroller can very well be outside exposed to the elements. Having some type of stroller cover or even a poncho available for your stroller can help prevent you from coming back to a soggy mess. This will also help protect your stroller from rusting and mold, but more importantly, will make sure your little ones have a dry place to sit.
Don’t bother bringing a wagon.
I know some people love the Keenz or similar foldable wagons and many moms in my Disney facebook group have asked about bringing one on vacation. Due to the size limitations, per the new policy, wagons are no longer be permitted in the park.
Avoid Double Strollers, if possible.
I know that double strollers are incredibly handy when you have multiple children. However if possible, strollers that are front to back will be easier to weave in and out of Disney crowds then the side-by-side doubles.
Again this is relative to how large the crowds when you visit and how much of a stroller driving pro you are.
Consider renting
If you don’t foresee needing a stroller in the airport or on your journey to Disney World, consider renting one when you arrive.
You can either rent directly from Walt Disney World, although many of the Disney strollers are not very comfortable and probably better suited for older children who may just need to rest their feet for the afternoon.
There are several rental agencies around Walt Disney World that have far more comfortable strollers, it oftentimes a better price. Plus, they likely will deliver the stroller directly to your hotel or Resort. Kingdom strollers is a popular option with solid reviews.
Try to pay attention to traffic flow.
Navigating Disney parks with a stroller can sometimes be tricky especially if it’s really crowded. Much like driving on a highway, try to move in the same direction as the rest of the traffic and pay attention to cast member navigation, especially around parade times and special events. This will help prevent others from running into you and you running into them.
Go stroller-less at Parades
Finding a viewing area at parades tend to be easier without the stroller. You don’t have to arrive as early to get enough space and kids that are able to stand will likely prefer to be on their feet anyway.
Just leave your stroller at the nearest attraction stroller parking and grab it after the festivities conclude.
Have a Disney Stroller tip to share? Let me know in the comments. If you found this post helpful, please also consider giving it a share!
No Comment