This photo was taken from our very first Grundig family vacation to Walt Disney World. Back then, I was working full time and was desperate for a family vacation that would not only involve warm weather, but would also allow us to have some quality time with the kids. The little guy was not even a year old yet, and my daughter was 2, so convenience was really important. Ultimately, we decided to go to Walt Disney World because we knew my daughter would have fun and because Disney made it so easy for us. If you are considering bring a baby to Disney World, I’d definitely recommend it. But, there are a few tips that I can offer which will make it much easier.
Traveling With a Baby at Disney World
Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel
I know, I know. You want to stay at a nearby suite hotel or condo because your baby will have his or her own room. I understand that. But staying at a Walt Disney World resort hotel is so much easier. Because you can take advantage of the Disney transportation (including the Magical Express), you won’t need to bring a car seat with you on the plane, which will make your airport visit much easier. Plus, you can take advantage of their luggage service, so you won’t need to roll your luggage and your stroller through Orlando International Airport. If you absolutely have your heart set on a suite, you can either stay in a family suite at Disney’s Art of Animation or All Star Movies resorts, or book a Disney Vacation Club suite (you don’t have to be a member to stay in one).
Send Supplies to Your Room
When we went on this first trip to Walt Disney World as a family, both of my children were in diapers, and my son was eating baby food. I decided to ship a huge box to ourselves at our resort (call ahead to get the best mailing address) so that we wouldn’t have to put everything in our luggage. An alternative is ordering these items online or through the Garden Grocer to have ready at your hotel when you arrive.
Consider a Baby Carrier
We went in May, which is definitely a hot time of year to travel. I brought a carrier for my son that I could use when getting on rides like it’s a small world – it was great to be hands free. But, it was too hot to carry him around like that, so we also had a double stroller that we could use.
Bring a Stroller With You
The rental strollers at Walt Disney World are made of molded plastic, and aren’t appropriate for babies. Bring your own stroller from home, so you’ll have access to it at your home airport, at MCO, and at your resort hotel.
Learn About the Baby Care Centers
Each of the four major parks offers an air-conditioned baby care center, where you can change and feed your baby in a comfortable environment. There are microwaves, tables, high chairs, and changing tables that are available for use. If you are breast feeding, you may also want to find some of the slower rides, like the Tomorrowland Transit Authority and the Carousel of Progress, that are great for breast feeding.
Have you been to Walt Disney World with a baby? Did I miss any major tips?
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wandering educators says
Great tips, esp the slower rides! 🙂
stephanie engstrom says
This was a wonderful article I never thought of sending a package of the heavy stuff before hand! We are traveling with an 8 month old this time to disney world!
Gemarla says
We went when my oldest was 1.5yrs and the little was 4 months, you hit all the important marks!! We did all of them! It was so much smoother. Especially the carriers. I would add don’t carry individual bags for the kids, just bring one big bag as a diaper bag and carry everything in there!