If you have a Disney vacation booked for this summer, chances are you are bringing along some children. With all the logistics and planning that goes into creating a good plan for your time in the parks, it’s important not to forget the logistics of actually getting to Disney property. Whether you fly or drive, you need to be prepared with enough activities, food, and patience to keep everyone calm and in a magical mindset! This week, I am sharing Five Tips for Traveling to Disney with Children. And I don’t mean touring the parks, I am sharing tips for making your flight or drive as smooth as possible!
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks so you can alleviate the need to stop at a gas station or an expensive airport shop. As far as the TSA is concerned, you can typically bring dry packaged snacks through security in your carry on. Think items like PopTarts, bags of chips, granola bars, etc. When it comes to drinks, those will need to be purchased at a shop once you’ve passed security. Or, wait until you board and enjoy the soda, water, or juice that most airlines serve once you are in flight. However, if you are driving, then you have much more freedom to pack food and drinks. Be sure to include peppermints, as well. These help alleviate motion sickness.
Pack a small tote bag or backpack for each child. In these, put crayons, pencils, Mad Libs, word searches, and their electronics. I like to have these accessible for the kids, so they can chose whatever they want whenever they want it. Also, pack a small stuffed animal or other “lovey” friend if they want to close their eyes and rest for a little bit. To save some money, you stockpile a few fun toys, books, etc to pull out when it is time to leave for vacation. Kids LOVE something new!
Load your iPad or other device with digital copies of movies. This puts the movies for your kids at their fingertips! We use movies as “quiet” time in the car, when everyone needs a little down and rest time. It also will come in handy when you arrive at your resort, and you may need something for the kids to do while you unpack, or if it is raining and you are spending some time in your room.
Check your bags and pack light in your carry ons. I know, many airlines charge fees now for checked baggage. However, in my mind, it is worth it when traveling with kids. Getting children through securing, keeping them entertained at the gate, and then making your way to ground transportation can be a juggling act to say the least. If you are flying, consider checking your bags and letting each person have one carry on.
Pack a change of clothes. This goes for everyone! But especially the kids. Whether you are driving or flying, pack a complete change of clothes for everyone. In turn, keep it handy. If someone has an accident or a spill, you will want to clean it up quickly and not spend a lot of time digging through your luggage to find clean clothes.
I hope these quick tips will help you prepare for a relaxing trip to Walt Disney World. Whether you drive or fly, make the most of your time with your family, and enjoy yourselves!
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