In the few years, my family has traveled to Walt Disney World three times (I’ve traveled solo with the Moms Panel several more times). The first time, my children were 10 months and 2, the second time, they were almost 2, and 3, and the third time, they were almost 3 and 4. Traveling with infants and toddlers can certainly be challenging, but definitely not impossible. Walt Disney World makes the experience as easy as it possibly can be – you just have to do a bit of advance preparing before you go!
If you haven’t traveled to Walt Disney World in a while, you may be surprised at how many hotels of varying prices and quality are now available. From the reasonably priced Value Resorts to the Luxurious Deluxe Villas, you will certainly be able to find something that fits your needs and budget.
In selecting a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, first determine the price you are able and willing to spend. The value resorts are a great deal, and while there aren’t as many amenities as the higher priced hotels, you will still very much be in the Disney spirit. The moderate hotels are reasonably priced, and the rooms are a bit larger, there is more of a theme, and refrigerators are included. Finally, each and every deluxe hotel is an experience in itself (we stayed at Animal Kingdom Lodge with a savanna view room last year, and it was a dream come true for our kids!).
Why stay on the premises? Well, although it may be a little more expensive up front, chances are, you will not need to rent a car. The savings from the rental fee and gas may make the hotel prices a bit more palatable. With Disney’s Magical Express, you can actually board a bus direct to the resort without even having to pick up your bags at baggage claim, which is a huge benefit! Finally, without a car, you may not even need to pack car seats (we used the CARES by Kids Fly Safe on the flight). This amenity is available to all families who stay at Walt Disney World Resort hotels, including the value hotels.
Before heading on vacation, make sure that you have selected some guidebooks so that you can be well prepared for your vacation. One that I would highly recommend is the Passporter – it can be purchased in a planner type binder, or as a stand alone book. Read the guidebooks before you leave, and have a basic idea of which attractions are must-sees for you and your family.
One mistake families often make is failing to make advance dining reservations well in advance. Walt Disney World Resort is extremely popular, and many of the restaurants book up shortly after the booking window opens. If you have your heart set on a specific dining experience, book it well in advance.
Finally, if you will need baby products, such as formula, diapers, and/or baby food, consider shipping a box to yourself at the resort. With two kids in diapers on our first trip, we shipped a 25 lb box of supplies to ourselves. We saved money because we didn’t have to buy the products in a Disney gift shop, and we had products that our kids were already used to. For a shipping address, call the hotel directly.
