Taking a Toddler to Disney World

In preparing for our upcoming vacation to Disney World, I realized how many decisions there are to make when you are traveling with a toddler. Many of the following decisions can apply as you plan to take your toddler on a vacation to any theme park, or distant destination.

When booking a flight with your toddler you need to consider your toddler’s age and activity level. Until the age of two, your toddler can sit in your lap. For those with very active toddlers, this can be difficult. Beginning at two years of age, your toddler will need a seat of his own (at a discounted child’s fare). While it isn’t mandatory to use a car seat on the plane, there are reasons to bring one. Your child will be better protected in the event of turbulence, it will be more difficult for him to squirm out of the seat belt which may cause him to be more calm in general and it will also make your flight more enjoyable if you aren’t trying to wrangle an energetic toddler the entire time. There are car seat systems that make it easier to transport your car seat through the airport, or you can loosen the straps to sling over your shoulders or use a stroller. An added benefit is that you will have a car seat available at your destination in the event that you are renting a car. If your toddler is older, you can check your car seat or just rent one from the car rental agency. If you are staying at a Disney World property you don’t need a car, as they will transport you to and from your hotel.

When packing for your carry-on, don’t overdo it. You will do better to pack a few objects that will keep your toddler engaged for an extended period rather than a large number of toys that will weigh you down and complicate your flight. Consider using a large backpack as your diaper bag and your own carryon. You can sling it over your shoulders, which leaves your hands free to push the stroller and/or tend to your child. A backpack will also be useful once you get to Disney World to function as a diaper bag that you can easily take into attractions when strollers aren’t allowed. At the end of the day, it will also help to carry out the trinkets and memorabilia that you are sure to have acquired during the day.

Deciding what to pack on your vacation is a skill that many people master easily. I am not one of those people. I am continually packing entirely too much, or leaving essential items at home.

With a toddler it is important to have enough clothes. Toddlers are notorious for spilling food and drinks, having toileting accidents and attracting all forms of dirt and debris. If your hotel has laundry facilities on site then you can get away with packing light. You may also consider taking a day, or evening out of your trip to go to a Laundromat if needed.

Even if you are going to a location with warm weather, like Florida, be sure to pack some warm items. You don’t want to have to buy sweat pants and jackets at a theme park prices, unless you really want them!

Taking your toddler on vacation doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience and planning your vacation shouldn’t be stressful. As long as you consider the options, and which works best for you, you can look forward to a memorable and enjoyable trip.

Taking a Toddler to Disney World, Pt 2 will focus on strollers, food and drinks and cameras and video recorders.

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