Travelin’ with Kids

Ok so I may be the unpopular opinion here but Walt Disney World is overrated! Yes, I said it and you read it right! It is overpriced, overwhelming and overrated. You pay a shit ton of money, end up surrounded by a ton of people, crammed into small spaces, wait too long for rides, pay too much for food and end up more stressed than any of it is worth! Never again!!!!

So if you are heart set on going because it is after all…Disney! Here’s a few tips. Now mind you, it’s been quite awhile since we attempted that nightmare (I mean, experience.)

Tip #1: find a family or friend to buy your children Florida resident tickets! It’s ALOT cheaper and they don’t have to show proof of residency. As an adult, you pay full price as a non-resident but you will definitely save quite a bit! Be sure to check BLACKOUT dates for Florida resident tickets.

Tip #2: stay outside the park! I highly recommend an AirBnb or VRBO! There’s lots of great houses within a very short distance that give you much more space and are ALOT cheaper! It was also more cost effective for being able to eat at home! We would feed the kid’s breakfast, swim in the house pool for awhile, eat lunch then head to the park. If you head in at lunchtime, many people are leaving which opens up parking spots. Then we would stay for the afternoon to enjoy the rides (or wait in line forever to end up on a 3 minute ride.) We did book a few character dinners which were a lot of fun….truly, no sarcasm here. Book those months in advance!

Lastly….be prepared! If you are not the average family of 4, good luck! Disney does not cater to large families! Not cost effective. All restaurants cater to families of 4. Hotel rooms typically only allow 4 per room, maybe 5 if you’re lucky! I hate to be a downer but I’m realistic. Not a fan as a mom of many.