Strollers

[JimP]

I am starting this thread to "unhide" an emerging discussion on strollers in the "pal mickey" thread.

So question...

Do you travel light (IE: carrying room key, and a separate AP is too much total load)?

--- or ---

Do you come equipped with the all terrain vehicle, stretch limousine, Hummer version of the baby stroller?

/Jim

[tinkerbella's mom]

LOL again, I just posted on the pal mickey about strollers. Wish I could cut and paste it here. We are the guilty,, I like to travel light however the stroller is not a luxury item to us. Our kids have boundless energy at home. WDW the magic and heat kicks in and oh without it we would either end up carrying them or sitting on a bench for hrs. We were DINKS for 12 yrs before having kids late in life, so the stroller is a pain to deal with, DH is dreading Nov. trip to AKV because of the crowded busses and the stroller hassle. But bigger hassle is trying to carry to little kids now 6 and 4, as petite as they are when asleep they are dead weight. So for one more yr. strollers it is. Can't wait for the day we can travel like you.
Bea

[JimP]

Our first Disney trip was to Disneyland in 1987... the girls were 3 and 5... and we left our son (age 1) with the grandparents.

Our 2nd trip was to WDW... and the kids were 3/5/7

We never used a stoller even one day... and for us it really worked out well!!!

We were park commandos back in those days... but with our annual passes... and long trips (typically 2+ weeks)... we would only go into the parks for short periods of time.

/Jim

[tinkerbella's mom]

My mother says the same thing. She was commando in DL. I was commando prekids. Now we just do whatever they want to ride and do. But I know my kids tolerance, and they are so not ready for no stroller. Last trip I encouraged them to walk (my evil way of weaning them for next yr). And as slow as we went by early pm they needed to be pushed in the stroller. We have not made it to wishes as a family. Usually on our way back to the room by 8 ( which is late for them, at home they are in bed at that time). One day soon enough we will be stroller free, 'til then I have a new tolerance and understanding of why parents use them.

[I'mNoPrince]

When we started to go to WDW DD was way to big for a stroller.

I try to carry light . I have a waterproff card carrier that holds 9 PAPs,DVC,DDE,DisVisa,DL and $20 cash) then I always have my Cell Phone and some Gum ( I know Disney doesn't sell it but I'm never without it).

DW takes a small Hydra pac but most of the time no liquid in it ( or bladder) . But it's a nice size for what she needs to take in.

Now this is no way a knock on people that need them But with the way things are going a WDW I'm thinking of getting a Electric Cart with a trailer for DW and DD to navigate the WDW. My thinking is is I'm going to be hit with the DoubleWides and Electros then I should have a bigger one then them.

DW is in PT for her knee ( Ortho on May1) and she may really need one we will see.

Our Park times now are not full day no breaks so we don't need to have everything under the sun with us .

[handa]

I'm commando with a coffee cup. DW needs a sherpa.

As a rule for any park travel, I leave every non-necessary key in my vehicle or in my room. I strip everything out of my wallet except for ID, necessary bank card(s) and the emergency backup credit card. I wear a comfortable brimmed ballcap on my head, and my only other accessories are my Altoids and my cell phone.

The LOS Mug is my one carryable item that I prefer to deal with as opposed to leave in the room because I like my beverages while waiting for the bus and on the walks back to the room in the later hours. If I need anything else, I can find it at the parks.

I'm also not a habitual locker renter, but I have done this a few times at different parks.

OTOH, DW is the packer. She carries extra jackets, extra clothes, rain gear, medicine, a boatload of stuff that I don't ask about, and another boatload of stuff that I'm sure I don't even know about.

DD is still pretty dependent upon the stroller for parks, and she exploits this. However, when I told her that trick-or-treating stopped as soon as she asked to be carried or to use the stroller, she lasted the entire adventure on her feet. I consider this her commando training and it will do her good in a couple of years when I make DW give the strollers away to a family with younger children.

We do carry our own stroller for multiple reasons that I listed on another thread.
This is hard for me to admit because not all that long ago, I vowed I would never take a stroller to or rent a stroller at WDW. So much for my resolve to not see Mickeyland until DD turns five!

Chris

[shamrock6]

three of our four children our a little older now but when we first started going to WDW we would rent two double strollers in all the parks. I liked it because I we seemed to have a better handle on them in large crowds. I also tend to bring more stuff with me than we need so the stroller handle would have things hanging all over it. My DH brings only his room card and he cant understand why I will haul all this stuff back and forth but I do. :idontgeti

[bigbahamadada]

We are a combo. With DS4 and DD2, we roll into the parks with a stoller absolutely overflowing with gear. We then park it somewhere central, go extremely light and walk. When kids began to slow down or need something, they'll take a break while one of us goes and gets the stroller. Perhaps only moving the stoller twice during a uneventful visit. Its there when we need it, but we try not to use it.

[Tink22]

Oh the many stages of life! When we started going on a yearly basis we had a 3-mo. old, 5 yr. old, and 7 yr. old. The stroller was great for carrying the baby, diaper bag, jackets, etc. We did buy a compact Aprica stroller that was fantastic - - very easy to fold, lightweight, but durable. Loved it. When the kids are that young it's easier to bring jackets, snacks, etc.

Fast forward - - they are now 21, 19, and the "baby" is 14! Now we bring as little as possible. If I need a jacket it gets tied at my waist and AP, room keys, Disney Visa, and some cash and chapstick get stuck in pockets. It's much easier!! However, there are some days I really miss the "old days"!

We don't even bring the sunscreen with us these days, just lather up before we leave in the morning. We do travel in Feb. or March most of the time so that is enough. I'm sure in the summer you need to reapply more often.

We didn't go during super crowded times, so the stroller wasn't usually a problem for us. It was much easier than lugging everything around on our backs!

[robinb]

We used to carry a LOT of junk and then hang the backpack off the handles of the stroller. When DD (aka the ballast) would get up the stroller would flip! Celia used a stroller regularly until she was at least 6 years old ... she would rather ride :). Then we started to wean her from it. No stroller in the day (except Epcot), but a stroller at night. Then no stroller at all for the MK and MGM but strollers OK for AK and Epcot. Finally, we left our stroller at home and only rented from Epcot.

I have to say that I miss my stroller! It made quite the handy carrying device :). We try to carry less junk, but the backpack/bag always seems to fill up on it's own. Between our camera, sun screen, a PB&J for my vegetarian DD's lunch, sunglass cases & water there isn't much room left.

[melk]

Can I admit that I miss our stroller?!? Heck, I even miss the old double stroller!!

With the stroller I would always just throw our backpack underneath and we were comfortable walking the parks. Now I am usually the one with the backpack on with the camera, water bottles, snacks, autograph books, etc, ugh!

But I guess I miss more the days when we could just throw the kids in the stroller and walk with them. They didn't have a say whether we were headed to the Epcot countries, or wherever! Now they have opinions, lol.;)

[shamrock6]

We are a combo. With DS4 and DD2, we roll into the parks with a stoller absolutely overflowing with gear. We then park it somewhere central, go extremely light and walk. When kids began to slow down or need something, they'll take a break while one of us goes and gets the stroller. Perhaps only moving the stoller twice during a uneventful visit. Its there when we need it, but we try not to use it.

That is actually a great idea. I never thought of that. We have four children and I swear I drag everything along with me "just in case" and rarely use the things. BUT if I didn't bring them I would certainly need them. Our three older children are fine walking the park but our littlest is good walking for awhile but usually ends up on DH shoulders anyway. It is a good idea to just go to it when you need it. Thanks:iagree:

[CRSNDSNY]

Our thought is always that the child should be in what they are most comfortable in -- no matter how big of a pain it is to lug the thing around.

First trip we took the travel system for our DD -- she was 5mo at the time.

Second trip we took her in a Peg Perego P3. She was 1yo. It was light an easy to move around. IT worked nicely.

Last trip we had two children with us -- 5mo (my son) and DD was 2y8mo at the time. We have a Graco Quattro Tour. That thing is HEAVY but totally amazing and comfy for them.

On our next trip in August we're taking two Peg Peregos to see how it is in comparison to our double stroller. One is the P3 and the other is the Aria.

We are big stroller addicts in our house. :hammer:...can you tell? LOL

And as far as "STUFF" we take with us to the parks, we try to take one small diaper bag with the essentials and one fanny pack or my little back pack purse. We always have a stroller rain cover with us, too, as well as our ponchos.

Our goal this next trip is to minimize our belongings even further. It's a PIA to get through security with all that crap!

[Starr W.]

We didn't start going until my baby was 5. He has the energy to go all day and part of the night! So no stroller, he would have been insulted if you even suggested one.

I carry a fanny pack(WDW is the only place you would catch me with one). I have the camera, sunglasses, packets of wipes, my small travel wallet and cell phone.

DH carries the small backpack he bought in Alaska years ago. He has the sunscreen, water and other sundry things that I can't think of that he puts in there. He'll stuff the jackets or evening wear if it is requiered in the backpack.


So I guess we travel pretty light.

[bigbahamadada]

Thanks. Hopefully glad you find it helpful.

I find it a bit funny that an unattended backpack left sitting in the park would either be scooped up by security or turned into lost and found pretty quickly. But a stroller laden down with the same backpack and multiple other "just in case" items can sit, undisturbed, all day long.

I have parked the stroller next to Dumbo first thing in the morning and left it in the same place until the fireworks, even leaving it there while we return to WL for a mid-afternoon nap.

True, somebody could just walk of with our stuff. But it's never happened in 20+ park visits with the kids. And, really, if someone needs some 3T-4T pullups, juice boxes, emergency panchos or sunscreen that bad, then they are welcome to them . . . . .

[bigbahamadada]

And while on the topic of strollers, for those with 2 or more kids, I can't recommend more highly the Buggy Board by Lascal. It attaches to the back of any stroller so that one child can ride in the stroller, while the other one stands in back.

Very easy to navigate with. You can carry two kids, using something barely larger than a single stroller. Easily detaches when only the stoller is needed. My 4 year old loves it and my 2 year old insists on her turn on the board.

We have this hooked to a very light McClaren umbrella stroller and it invariable draws comments at WDW.

And, a bit off topic, but the other item we use that always draws comments are Child ID Tattoos. See (http://tattooswithapurpose.com/). These are temporary tattoos that say "If I am lost, please help me be found" and then have a place for you to write a cell phone number with a sharpie. They last 5 or so days and wipe off easily with an alcohol rub.

Both my kids know that, if they get separated from us, they are to find a police officer or a "button shirt" (our term for CMs) and show him or her the tattoo, so they can call mommy and daddy.

[diva452]

I have a fleet of strollers. I have the Graco Quattro Tour (Hummer/SUV), Graco Metrolite (more like a Toyota Highlander), Chicco Caddy which we only used in China, Maclaren Quest which is our travel stroller of choice., normally

We debated on which to bring on this trip since it's our first at WDW with DD who is 3.5. We decided on the Maclaren because it's small and easily portable. Well it didn't do well in the sand at Typhoon Lagoon yesterday and having no cup holders made it very difficult for dh and I to have our Bass Ale in England at Epcot earlier today. If I were to do it again, I"d take the quatro tour because of the "luggage room". Plus it folds easier than the Maclaren.

When we go to DL at home we always take the quattro tour or the metrolite because of storage capacty and cup holders.

We are not a family that travels light.:coolcar:

[TW1]

We've always been commando visitors and I am proud of our current minimalist travel methods. I carry one simple backpack with some snacks and that's it.

In the old days it was two strollers and two good sized bags. Them days are thankfully over.

[JimP]

We've always been commando visitors and I am proud of our current minimalist travel methods. I carry one simple backpack with some snacks and that's it.

In the old days it was two strollers and two good sized bags. Them days are thankfully over.

Over time... I suspect you will learn how to ditch the backpack. There are plenty of snacks available in the park ;)

/Jim

[Mary]

I used to carry a diaper bag with enough stuff in it to feed and clothe a small country. We would eat out and there is always snack food available so I have no clue what my point of doing this was. I now aim to carry so little that I don't have to wait in the security check line! DD and her friends carry huge bags with everything under the sun in them. I assume they will "lighten up" some day. Mary

[crazywig]

Our dd will be 4yrs 3 months on our December trip. I'm taking an umbrella stroller, I know she won't make it at night.

Last trip in October I also took an umbrella stroller for my then 5.5yr old 'just in case'. We didn't use it the first two days and he was just a wreck. Cranky! Yes it took me two days to realize it was the walking combined with the heat! The first week of October was hot! Day 3 he rode occasionally in the stroller and he was like a different kid. That said, that was his last trip with a stroller and hopefully this will be dd's last year with one as well.

I long to be stroller free in the parks (we are at home).

[CRSNDSNY]

I have a fleet of strollers. I have the Graco Quattro Tour (Hummer/SUV), Graco Metrolite (more like a Toyota Highlander), Chicco Caddy which we only used in China, Maclaren Quest which is our travel stroller of choice., normally
LOL
Glad I'm not the only stroller nut!

[CRSNDSNY]

I used to carry a diaper bag with enough stuff in it to feed and clothe a small country. We would eat out and there is always snack food available so I have no clue what my point of doing this was. I now aim to carry so little that I don't have to wait in the security check line! DD and her friends carry huge bags with everything under the sun in them. I assume they will "lighten up" some day. Mary
That's our goal for this next trip. Thankfully we'll only have one in diapers this time and my son doesn't eat baby food anymore, so that means less stuff to carry in an even smaller bag. We're looking forward to a very minimalist approach!

[JimP]

That's our goal for this next trip. Thankfully we'll only have one in diapers this time and my son doesn't eat baby food anymore, so that means less stuff to carry in an even smaller bag. We're looking forward to a very minimalist approach!

Do the baby centers in the parks still have free diapers? I wonder if we have any parents with small babies who have mastered travel using the Disney version of "au natural".

/Jim

[Tammy]

If any of yall are in Disney over the next 2 weeks and see a 9 year old boy with red hair in a double wide stroller please do not judge me! I get horrible looks about my son being in a stroller but he has autism with a very strong desire to run away from us. We lost him one time in the park for about 20minutes and thought we were going to die! He has tried to get out of the stroller to run a few times but we always feel this and we can get to him before he does. My 7 year old typical daughter gets hot and cranky and tries to get in with him which causes world war 3 so she gets a single which she pushes with our stuff until she gets tired. I deserves all the stares because i used to be the one giving them! Sometimes though we do not know the situation behind what we see. Oh and we tried those dog leash things you tie to your wrist but he loses his mind to get it off of him. We even have to wear his magical hours wrist band for him.

[robinb]

LOL
Glad I'm not the only stroller nut!Oh definitely not!

1. We had a Peg Perago pram (a hand-me-down from my BIL) which we used for a downstairs basinette but was too heavy to go anywhere.

2. I had a cheap-o umbrella stroller on the recommendation of my DH's cousin who had 4 kids and found at at WDW that it did not work well for a 4-month old BABY even though she said it would! I was a new parent and simply didn't know better. I *did* have a head support for my DD, so it wasn't total child abuse.

3. I had a Combi Savvy which couldn't stand up to the pressure of regular use and traveling and broke at WDW. It was a real POS.

4. I had a Maclaren Techno which was my last "real" stroller and a work horse that hauled a 50-lb 6 or 7 year old without a problem. I used it regularly at WDW and traveling for about 4 years of abuse.

5. I also bought a cheap-o $20 Kolcraft umbrella stroller at Toys R Us one NYE when my DD was 6-years old and we realized that we left the Maclaren at home. That Kolcraft was also a great stroller and I don't hesitate to recommend it to someone who needs one for an older child at WDW and won't use it at home. Why spend a boatload of money when a Kolcraft will do the temporary job?

[my3weasels]

If any of yall are in Disney over the next 2 weeks and see a 9 year old boy with red hair in a double wide stroller please do not judge me!

I wouldn't judge you! We went to Disney in January. I knew we needed to rent a double for my 4.5 year old. He napped in it several times. And I also figured my 7.5 year old would ride at times too. Heck! He napped in it twice! And he's a big kid. I don't care if people thought he was lazy -- he was tired! And whatever makes them more comfortable and less cranky is fine by me! ;)

[kdzgon]

I am starting this thread to "unhide" an emerging discussion on strollers in the "pal mickey" thread.

So question...

Do you travel light (IE: carrying room key, and a separate AP is too much total load)?

--- or ---

Do you come equipped with the all terrain vehicle, stretch limousine, Hummer version of the baby stroller?

/Jim

Hummer version (deluxe double stroller) for us if 2 or more grands - the more slimmed down (but still deluxe) MacLaren for just one.

FWIW, we, too traveled to WDW years ago, 4 young (7 & under) kids, and never used a stroller. Both times and the sheer size of the parks is much different nowadays - IMO you cannot compare the two experiences.

[harmrose22]

Last year before our May trip, I went from a HUGE Graco travel system that was so big, I felt like I was constantly bumping into things and turned corners poorly. We bought a mid-range ($30) stroller of some sort as DS, who is now 3, likes to get out and walk as much as possible. It has a nice basket on the bottom and folds pretty flat (we were able to slide it in between the seats on the bus with no issues. Our backpack fit nicely in the bottom

As for the backpack... it was packed to the GILLS with stuff. At the time DS was still in diapers so we had diapers, wipes, change of clothes, hoodie, snacks, sippy cups, bandaids, camera, video camera, sunscreen, hat, cell phone, stuffed Mickey pirate, and more in there.

This year, we are bringing the same stroller but I bought a smaller bag to bring. He does not need diapers, will need a change of clothes for playing in the water areas at the parks, and suncreen. The camera can come but I am banishing the video camera to home... we dragged it around with us for 8 days last year and only used it once... what a waste. I am working on minimalizing but we will see how that goes. I know I am going to get there and start adding stuff to the bag "just in case!"

[crazywig]

LOL
Glad I'm not the only stroller nut!



Despite my previous post about longing to be stroller free, I confess I have had 22 different strollers in the past 6 yrs :innocent: , It was sort of a collection/hobby type thing (I'm over it now).

I am now down to 1 Mac (ok 2, but one is in a box in my storage room). I've had 6 different Maclarens, 3 different Peg Peregos, Mountain buggy, Phil & Ted's, Quinny, Baby Planet etc. if it was cool I wanted it.

[CRSNDSNY]

Do the baby centers in the parks still have free diapers? I wonder if we have any parents with small babies who have mastered travel using the Disney version of "au natural".

/Jim
No, they aren't free. But they do sell them (at a hefty price).

We also have a cheapo umbrella stroller which we used onboard the Wonder last December.

My stroller addiction is NOTHING compared to some of you! :shhh::Pssst:

[JimP]

My stroller addiction is NOTHING compared to some of you! :shhh::Pssst:

I never had a stroller addiction... I did have a stroller aversion.

As I said previously... we never felt that we needed one... but we did not try to spend too many hours in the park. The kids always slept in the afternoons. Personally, I think that was the key to success.

Now... I watch people trying to manhandle these behemoths onto the bus... and I watch in disbelief. This is similar to folks I see at the airport who are trying to wheel several wheelies per person, plus carry-ons over their shoulder... and then maybe try to manage a few kids. It looks like a totally miserable experience to me.

/Jim

[robinb]

As I said previously... we never felt that we needed one... but we did not try to spend too many hours in the park. The kids always slept in the afternoons. Personally, I think that was the key to success.That assumes that your kids will sleep in the afternoon. My DD will not rest, even though my husband and I try to. She will stay awake and play or watch TV. She will then crash like a rock in the evening. I can't tell you how many times I ate my dinner with my DD's head in my lap because she crashed at dinner. That's why we brought a stroller for so long. I would rather that she crash in the stroller than to have to go home early.

[JimP]

That assumes that your kids will sleep in the afternoon. My DD will not rest, even though my husband and I try to. She will stay awake and play or watch TV. She will then crash like a rock in the evening. I can't tell you how many times I ate my dinner with my DD's head in my lap because she crashed at dinner. That's why we brought a stroller for so long. I would rather that she crash in the stroller than to have to go home early.

I am sure all kids are different. We would get them good and tired in the morning... 8:00 till 10:00 or 11:00 in the parks in commando mode. Then give them an hour or so to swim... then we all slept. Lights out.

Then we would wake up... eat... and party till late... and sleep again.

It was like having twice as many vacation days LOL

/Jim

[kdzgon]

Over time... I suspect you will learn how to ditch the backpack. There are plenty of snacks available in the park ;)

/Jim

But it is not just snacks, even if money is not an issue (which it is for many families) - I usually bring just a water and a snack for my diabetic DH, and another for each grand, as a 3-5 yr old doesn't understand Grandpa not "sharing"). It's my guide book (although that's just because I can throw it under the stroller seat - it doesn't come if no stroller), a travel wallet with passes, IDs, credit card and a little cash, DH's meds, a camera, eye glasses, cell phone, hats for the sun, a light jacket for me (I'm chilly in many AMs, and I freeze w/ the AC at the restaurants and/or shows, etc) and if we'll be there through the evening shows I might have jackets for the kids, sippy cups if we have the littler grands, autograph books (grands again!), if it's hot I have a change of clothes for each grandchild with us, and it seems more often than not, umbrellas or rain ponchos (cause we rarely avoid a lengthy downpour!). Pal Mickey comes along every once in a while, and of course night parades call out for those spinning light thingamajigs (and I am NOT buying a new one every time we see a parade!) or perhaps light sticks, etc.

It seems so strange when it is just DH and me - I still bring the backpack thanks to things like eye glasses and critical meds, but it does mean I lug the backpack instead of it being under the stroller.

Sadly (in some respects), I am and will always be a Girl Scout at heart. That, plus the joy of sharing WDW with my kids and grandkids keeps me from attaining "minimalist" status before I die.

[JimP]

I'll try to address them one at a time (BTW... you have the disease bad... take two asprin and call me in the morning)

- Water (we hydrate by having lots of TS meals in nice cool AC
- snack for my diabetic DH. I am also diabetic, and WDW is loaded with CHO... never more than a few steps away. For someone insulin dependent... carry some glucose tabs in a pocket.
- Snacks for each grand (see number 2 above)
- Guide book - dont do your homework in class
- Travel walet - carry only your TTTK card in a pocket... and AP if you have one
- Meds - possibly a belly bag in your case... cause you need them
- Eye glasses - I just switched to progressives... so I am wearing "all of them"
- Cell phone - any good geek keeps it on the belt
- Jacket - back at home (real home)... remember carry-on only rule :)
- sippy cups... Nope
- autograph books... take pics instead. digital pics dont take up much space :)
- change of clothes... nope... plan on 2-3 hours max in the parks
- Umbrellas - always a bad idea
- Rain poncho - it is actually more comfortable to get wet naturally, than in your own sweat
- Pal Mickey - this is what started this entire post ;)
- spinny blinky thingies - spend the money on snacks instead (see #2)

It has taken me a long time to become a minimalist. It makes a HUGE difference in travel comfort.

I bought Debbie the worlds smallest digital camera that easily fits in a pocket or on a belt loop. The ONLY reason that I carry that is because cell phone camera technology has not advanced to the point of stand alone cameras becoming unnencessary. Now... Occasionally I might carry my DSLR... but that is only a VERY small percentage of the time... and only when I am on a mission to take pics. Otherwise it is the small P&S only.

I like the goal of not having to go through the security check-point. That is a good intermediate goal in becoming a minimalist.

/Jim

[CRSNDSNY]

Now... I watch people trying to manhandle these behemoths onto the bus... and I watch in disbelief. This is similar to folks I see at the airport who are trying to wheel several wheelies per person, plus carry-ons over their shoulder... and then maybe try to manage a few kids. It looks like a totally miserable experience to me.

/Jim
Welcome to my life. :toiletcla
Albeit exhausted more than miserable.

[CRSNDSNY]

I am sure all kids are different. We would get them good and tired in the morning... 8:00 till 10:00 or 11:00 in the parks in commando mode. Then give them an hour or so to swim... then we all slept. Lights out.

Then we would wake up... eat... and party till late... and sleep again.

It was like having twice as many vacation days LOL

/Jim
yeah, that's pretty much our schedule yet despite our best efforts our daughter won't fall asleep for a nap while vacationing. It's a problem, but we do try.

I cannot imagine not having a stroller for either of my children at the parks. It would end up being more work for my husband and I. We'd never last and we've never been commando park hoppers with kids.

[DonaldD]

We pack fairly light, one back pack and a stroller (our son was 2.5 at the time). we fit everything we needed for the day in the backpack and would carry on our way. I couldn't imagine travelling without the stroller, it was just so much easier, despite the hassle of dealing with it on the bus.

However when we go in March it will be our first trip with DS now 4 and the twins, 9mths. So this will surely be a different trip. If anyone has experience travelling the parks with young multiples, I'd love to hear how you managed and any tricks of the trade!

[kdzgon]

I'll try to address them one at a time (BTW... you have the disease bad... take two asprin and call me in the morning)
.....

/Jim

Ah, but I'll at least have those aspirin with me! :slyasafox

You have me stumped with CHO, though.

I have actually pretty much eliminated the guidebook in the parks (unless traveling with family "newbies" - I then bring it for them), but it was truly overwhelming returning to Disney after a 20+ yr "hiatus".

As a Type 2 insulin dependent diabetic, DH has had some issues with regulating, especially with all the added walking while at the parks. It has taken me almost 2 yrs to convince him of the need to carry glucose tablets - our next trip will be our first try with them. The good news is it can eliminate carrying snacks for both DH & the grands.

I rarely have a deep enough pocket to feel comfortable storing my cards in my pocket. I used to carry a couple of cards (AP, room key, license, as we usually have a car, etc) in a lanyard carrier, but with handling the kids, lifting in and out of rides, booster seats at dining, etc, I have had a couple of issues with the pouch ripping so I have gone to either a small travel wallet or I bury them in a hidden zipped pocket in the backpack.

As to the stroller, IMO it is a godsend. If the kids are getting too rambunctious, I send them to the stroller and off we go - they are very conditioned that way. I will also say that combining two or more excited 2-4 yr old cousins that do not spend lots of time together (they live several states apart) AND the wonder of WDW, the behavior is more boisterous to say the least than if it is two siblings. I raised 4 kids that were a total of less than 5 yrs apart and found that LOTS easier than dealing with little grands that are cousins, not siblings.

I don't know - maybe my parenting skills have declined significantly, but I DO know the stroller makes the difference between traveling to WDW with multiple grands or going alone, so no matter how many other improvements I may be able to make, I won't be a true minimalist any time soon.

BTW, don't get me wrong - I do appreciate the effort to help me reform! :jumpingbe

[CRSNDSNY]

I'm with you 100% kdzgon!

[TikiTwinsMom]

We pack fairly light, one back pack and a stroller (our son was 2.5 at the time). we fit everything we needed for the day in the backpack and would carry on our way. I couldn't imagine travelling without the stroller, it was just so much easier, despite the hassle of dealing with it on the bus.

However when we go in March it will be our first trip with DS now 4 and the twins, 9mths. So this will surely be a different trip. If anyone has experience travelling the parks with young multiples, I'd love to hear how you managed and any tricks of the trade!

We took our first trip with our then 19 month old twins in January. We brought our own Aria Twin stroller. Yes, it's a behemoth to carry on and off the buses, but the kids are used to it and comfortable in it, which made it worth it to us.

I purchased 2 mesh bags (I think they are McLaren) made for a single stroller and clipped one on each side of the back of our stroller. They can velcro on, but we bought carabiners (those clip things used for camping) and clipped them to existing rings on the stroller. I used one as a diaper bag so that any time we need to change diapers, I could easily unclip the bag and take it into the restroom with me. We used the other one as a food bag. We eat a lot of TS and found that it was easy to grab this bag and take it into the restaurants with us (sippy cups, bibs, plastic spoons, etc.). We were so thrilled with our mesh bag system that we'll definitely be using them when we go back in October.

[CRSNDSNY]

I purchased 2 mesh bags (I think they are McLaren) made for a single stroller and clipped one on each side of the back of our stroller. They can velcro on, but we bought carabiners (those clip things used for camping) and clipped them to existing rings on the stroller. I used one as a diaper bag so that any time we need to change diapers, I could easily unclip the bag and take it into the restroom with me. We used the other one as a food bag. We eat a lot of TS and found that it was easy to grab this bag and take it into the restaurants with us (sippy cups, bibs, plastic spoons, etc.). We were so thrilled with our mesh bag system that we'll definitely be using them when we go back in October.
EXCELLENT ideas!!! Thanks!

[Deb & Bill]

We made our first trip when our son was 4 yr old. We brought his stroller along (umbrella type) and he used it. On our second trip, when he was five, he didn't use the stroller once. Never brought it again.

Son used to wear a Mickey backpack (small one) with his autograph book, pen, disposable camera. He has graduated to what he can carry in his pocket at 14 (nearly 15). Husband is the same.

I have a fanny pack with the tickets, wallet, extra car keys, cell phone. Plus I carry my small digital camera, so I'm the only one who has to go through the security checkpoint. If it's cool, we'll tie an sweatshirt around our waist. If it's raining or ominous, we'll loop a poncho over our belts/fanny pack.

If we're thirsty, we buy something to drink. If we're hungry, we buy something to eat or head back to the resort.

[shamrock6]

We took our first trip with our then 19 month old twins in January. We brought our own Aria Twin stroller. Yes, it's a behemoth to carry on and off the buses, but the kids are used to it and comfortable in it, which made it worth it to us.

I purchased 2 mesh bags (I think they are McLaren) made for a single stroller and clipped one on each side of the back of our stroller. They can velcro on, but we bought carabiners (those clip things used for camping) and clipped them to existing rings on the stroller. I used one as a diaper bag so that any time we need to change diapers, I could easily unclip the bag and take it into the restroom with me. We used the other one as a food bag. We eat a lot of TS and found that it was easy to grab this bag and take it into the restaurants with us (sippy cups, bibs, plastic spoons, etc.). We were so thrilled with our mesh bag system that we'll definitely be using them when we go back in October.
I know this has nothing to do with this topic but...........
I am really just commenting on the picture of the boxer laying on the sofa. We are also proud owners of a boxer gal, however she is twelve and very old and recently very sick. She has grown up with four babies and she has never been aggressive with any of them. Truly our favorite breed. :dancingba:dancingba

[JimP]

You have me stumped with CHO, though.

CHO is the generic molecular formula for carbohydrates... which are what you would use to raise the BG level in a diabetic who has taken too much insulin.. or has exercised more aggressively than anticipated.

CHO is also the reason that must of us T2's get diabetes in the first place.

/Jim

[TikiTwinsMom]

I know this has nothing to do with this topic but...........
I am really just commenting on the picture of the boxer laying on the sofa. We are also proud owners of a boxer gal, however she is twelve and very old and recently very sick. She has grown up with four babies and she has never been aggressive with any of them. Truly our favorite breed. :dancingba:dancingba

Aren't they great? Ours is Otis and he's 6. Still very active but starting to show some arthritis in his legs. You are very fortunate to have a 12yo! Otis has been wonderful with our twins. I hope your boxer girl is feeling better soon. :goodvibes:dog:

[DonaldD]

I purchased 2 mesh bags (I think they are McLaren) made for a single stroller and clipped one on each side of the back of our stroller. They can velcro on, but we bought carabiners (those clip things used for camping) and clipped them to existing rings on the stroller. I used one as a diaper bag so that any time we need to change diapers, I could easily unclip the bag and take it into the restroom with me. We used the other one as a food bag. We eat a lot of TS and found that it was easy to grab this bag and take it into the restaurants with us (sippy cups, bibs, plastic spoons, etc.). We were so thrilled with our mesh bag system that we'll definitely be using them when we go back in October.[/QUOTE]

Sounds like a great system! Thanks for the information!

[kdzgon]

CHO is the generic molecular formula for carbohydrates... which are what you would use to raise the BG level in a diabetic who has taken too much insulin.. or has exercised more aggressively than anticipated.

CHO is also the reason that must of us T2's get diabetes in the first place.

/Jim

DUH - thanks for the explanation!

Although they are available everywhere, if DH's sugar drops, it is sometimes very sudden - I cannot risk having to stand in line to purchase something. He is not on the insulin that is taken with every meal, etc - he is not supposed to get sudden drops with his current regimen, yet it happens. In fact, it is now happening even without the extra exertion and happening more frequently in recent weeks. I'm hoping they can get a better handle on this, and soon - these spikes and/or crashes are certainly not good for his health.

[JimP]

DUH - thanks for the explanation!

Although they are available everywhere, if DH's sugar drops, it is sometimes very sudden - I cannot risk having to stand in line to purchase something. He is not on the insulin that is taken with every meal, etc - he is not supposed to get sudden drops with his current regimen, yet it happens. In fact, it is now happening even without the extra exertion and happening more frequently in recent weeks. I'm hoping they can get a better handle on this, and soon - these spikes and/or crashes are certainly not good for his health.

I strongly recommend that you get:

Dr. Bernstein's Diabetes Solution: The Complete Guide to Achieving Normal Blood Sugars Revised & Updated
by Richard K. Bernstein
ISBN: 0316099066

There may be newer editions... but I don't know if the ISBN changes. You can find it on Amazon.com

Then throw away every other diabetic book you have! This combination will keep him alive much longer... and if he doesn't want to do it to save himself... he can do it to prevent subjecting you from long term care of him as he fails.

If you can afford it (he is not cheap)... Dr Bernstein has a diabetes clinic in NY.
Dr Bernstein is fanatical about achieving normal blood sugar levels. As you probably know... the medical community strives to get people's A1C down into the 6.x range... and very few accomplish this. Bernstein wants much better. At diagnosis, my A1C was 9.8... and my past 13 tests have ranged from 4.0 - 4.9... so I was perhaps the best controlled diabetic on the planet. I really fell off the wagon this past year... and I am dreading my next check up. I suspect I will be well into the 5's. I know I need to resume the discipline I held since 2003.

/Jim

[JimP]

DUH - thanks for the explanation!

Although they are available everywhere, if DH's sugar drops, it is sometimes very sudden - I cannot risk having to stand in line to purchase something. He is not on the insulin that is taken with every meal, etc - he is not supposed to get sudden drops with his current regimen, yet it happens. In fact, it is now happening even without the extra exertion and happening more frequently in recent weeks. I'm hoping they can get a better handle on this, and soon - these spikes and/or crashes are certainly not good for his health.

One more thing... if you DH's BG levels drop... don't stand in line. Just grab the first CHO you can find... and worry about paying for it later. I would also start carrying glucose tabs. They will drive the BG levels up almost instantly. Table sugar (sucrose) is actually fairly difficult (ie: not immediate) to break down and re-form into glucose. The longer complex carbohydrate chains (such as bread) will actually form glucose faster than sucrose. Sucrose will not be directly enter the blood stream directly (at least not enough to matter)... it needs to be converted to glucose first.

Do you think I have ADD? I think we are way off topic of baby stollers :)

/Jim

[glypnirsgirl]

Do you think I have ADD? I think we are way off topic of baby stollers :)

/Jim


Ahhhh ,,, but you are still on topic of being minimalist - which I think was the true purpose of this thread.

ADD? Who knows? Personally, I think that this would be evidence of not ADD since you are on page 5 and still on topic.

Elaine:umbrella:

[kdzgon]

Ahhhh ,,, but you are still on topic of being minimalist - which I think was the true purpose of this thread.

ADD? Who knows? Personally, I think that this would be evidence of not ADD since you are on page 5 and still on topic.

Elaine:umbrella:

Yes, I am the one off-topic - I promise, no more diabetes talk here :flowerfor

[glypnirsgirl]

No reason to be apologetic as far as I am concerned.

People normally converse in a "stream of consciousness" manner.

Because I have to prepare people for trial every day to respond in a NOT NATURAL MANNER, (answer the question, only the question, do not anticipate the next question, do not worry about where it is leading, answer the question, only the question...)

I have absolutely no desire to chastise people for taking one of these "conversations" where they lead. I think that the diabetes information is helpful.

Elaine

[JimP]

Ahhhh ,,, but you are still on topic of being minimalist - which I think was the true purpose of this thread.

ADD? Who knows? Personally, I think that this would be evidence of not ADD since you are on page 5 and still on topic.

Elaine:umbrella:

I must have the forum settings different than you... because I am on page 2.

The one and only reason that I think I am not ADD is: It wasn't invented yet when I was a kid... hence I was not diagnosed.

/Jim

[glypnirsgirl]

I must have the forum settings different than you... because I am on page 2.

The one and only reason that I think I am not ADD is: It wasn't invented yet when I was a kid... hence I was not diagnosed.

/Jim


The educational psychologist that saw Jordan when he was little said that "school caused ADD." He believed that because they do not have periodic recesses now like they did when I was in elementary school, that children's energy builds up until the feel like exploding. Add to that sitting in front of the TV, computer and video games and you have a bunch of fat people (me included) that do not blow off enough of their "active" hormones. It all adds up to ADD for everyone.

Elaine

[JimP]

Jenn just reminded me of a "minimalist" story... and I just have to share it.

Two years ago, I was working in Tampa for a week... and arranged for Deb and Jenn to meet me at WDW at the conclusion of my last day at work.. for a short 6 night trip.

Debbie (like me) likes to get to airports early... typically 2 hours before the flight. Jenn (like always) was being a PITA about waking up early causing Debbie to stress. They finally got into the car 30 mins after Deb wanted to... and were on their way to the airport.

In the parking lot... Deb opened the trunk... and Jenn exclaimed... Where is my suitcase? Deb replied "Where did you put it?" She said it is in the foyer, and Dad always puts it in the car. Deb looked around and said: "I don't see dad".

Deb said that she was going to check-in... and gave Jenn the choice of either missing the trip... or sharing clothes and dressing like an old lady :). We did make a run to character wearhouse to pick up some Disney underwear and a teeshirt or two... but I think Jenn learned her lesson to be more responsible for her own stuff.

This is a proof point that you can travel without luggage... even if you don't have an OL :ROTFL:

/Jim

[clhlaptop]

What have you found to be the best light weight carriage for a 6-7 year old? I am looking for one that still pushes easy and is tall enough for her. We are planning another trip to Disney May 2009.

[CRSNDSNY]

What have you found to be the best light weight carriage for a 6-7 year old? I am looking for one that still pushes easy and is tall enough for her. We are planning another trip to Disney May 2009.
What is your child's weight?

[TW1]

In the parking lot... Deb opened the trunk... and Jenn exclaimed... Where is my suitcase? Deb replied "Where did you put it?" She said it is in the foyer, and Dad always puts it in the car. Deb looked around and said: "I don't see dad".

Can your daughter call my daughter and tell her this story? While my darling daughter is only 13, I can see this one coming a mile away. And of course it will be my fault for not being there.

Back to our regulalry scheduled topic...

[clhlaptop]

My daughter weighs 48 pounds. We rented the last time we went which was great but we may be staying at SSR this tme and if she falls asleep on the bus she is too hard to carry as dead weight so I would love to bring a stroller. Thanks for your help.:slyasafox

[jen]

I like lightweight. I usually go with something a little step up from an umbrella. Our jeep stroller actually broke recently so I bought one for $25 from walmart.com and love it. I like that it folds us for the buses.

[JimP]

What have you found to be the best light weight carriage for a 6-7 year old? I am looking for one that still pushes easy and is tall enough for her. We are planning another trip to Disney May 2009.

We never used a stroller at all when at WDW or DL for any of our kids. However, when my oldest daughter was 7... she did a pretty good job walking her 3 yo little brother. :)

/Jim

[Cruisin]

We never even bring a backpack in with the 4 boys, a camera is it. We would leave little ones home until they were out of strollers, more fun for the upright members of the family, eventually all 4 boys got to go under their own foot power. Have to admit though, it was tough waiting 5 years or so go.

[jamstew]

I'm taking adult children and three little ones in May. The little ones will be 3-1/2, 4, and 5-1/2. Nobody owns a stroller any more, and I have no plans to take any with us. They're just a royal PITA in the airports and more stuff to haul around. I'm hoping against hope that we don't need to rent them either. I guess in the worst case scenario, I'd probably buy one of the umbrella strollers that they sell in the park shops and the kids could take turns--but I'm still not taking it home! Heck, I could buy three of them for the rental cost of a double for the week. We also only plan a few hours in the parks each morning, a leisurely lunch and afternoon break, and head back to the parks for a few hours in the evening. I really think the kids will be fine.

I carry a very small camera case that fits my very small camera, extra memory cards, extra battery, cell phone, AP, room card, ID, lip gloss & $20. Clipped to one side of the bag is a hard case for my sunglasses. Clipped on the other side is my refillable mug. I wear a hat. I sometimes throw in a sunscreen wipe. I carried a pancho twice--I'd rather be wet in the heat than in a plastic sauna, thanks! I shudder to think what all my daughter-in-law thinks she needs for the kids in the parks :scary:

[JimP]

I'm taking adult children and three little ones in May. The little ones will be 3-1/2, 4, and 5-1/2. Nobody owns a stroller any more, and I have no plans to take any with us. They're just a royal PITA in the airports and more stuff to haul around. I'm hoping against hope that we don't need to rent them either. I guess in the worst case scenario, I'd probably buy one of the umbrella strollers that they sell in the park shops and the kids could take turns--but I'm still not taking it home! Heck, I could buy three of them for the rental cost of a double for the week. We also only plan a few hours in the parks each morning, a leisurely lunch and afternoon break, and head back to the parks for a few hours in the evening. I really think the kids will be fine.

I carry a very small camera case that fits my very small camera, extra memory cards, extra battery, cell phone, AP, room card, ID, lip gloss & $20. Clipped to one side of the bag is a hard case for my sunglasses. Clipped on the other side is my refillable mug. I wear a hat. I sometimes throw in a sunscreen wipe. I carried a pancho twice--I'd rather be wet in the heat than in a plastic sauna, thanks! I shudder to think what all my daughter-in-law thinks she needs for the kids in the parks :scary:

Jamstew,

Absolutely, positively, unequivocally agree :)

/Jim

[amycthir]

I wouldn't judge you! We went to Disney in January. I knew we needed to rent a double for my 4.5 year old. He napped in it several times. And I also figured my 7.5 year old would ride at times too. Heck! He napped in it twice! And he's a big kid. I don't care if people thought he was lazy -- he was tired! And whatever makes them more comfortable and less cranky is fine by me! ;)

My son has a problem with dehydrating easily (even with bottle of water glued to lips) and part of it results in cramping, especially his legs, and ends up miserble so we find it alot easier to push a stroller and have the sore legs myself then see him suffer.

By the way, what are some good strollers for bigger kids (51 inches tall and 57 pounds)?

Thanks

[clhlaptop]

I understand the needing a stroller. My daughter gets so excited she gets an upset stomach and the stroller was a life saver last time because we could get places faster without having to wait for her feel better.

We actually surprised both my daughters with the trip when we went a year ago because m oldest wouldn't have been able to sleep at all if we had told her. It was great because my parents came and they showed up in a limo to pick up our family. The kids thought Grandma and Grandpa had bought a new car, never seen a limo before. It was a great surprise and we didn't have sleepless nights with upset stomachs.

I am still looking for a great stroller. I am trying to find a used MacClaren because they seemed to have the most room, when I looked, and folded up small. It was light weight too but I am not sure it is the best option out there. I am hoping to get some help from fellow parents.:teleport: