Mom and Daughter at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Room
  • On Nov 23, 2009
    Melissa from NJ Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Anna, recently saw a ?? you answered traveling to WDW via car. We are driving to WDW from NJ in 4/19, any advice would be great. I, DH, DS9, DD5 we are renting a car. Do you drive straight through,stop overnight sleep, how long does it take, etc. Thanks

    Hi, Melissa!  We do drive almost every trip, and we're experts! 

    We live in South Jersey, not far from  Philadelphia.  If we leave at about two A.M., we can count on the kids sleeping until around seven, which gives us a head start without potty breaks and leg stretches.  If we do the trip this way, we can usually make it from our front door to our resort in about 18 hours, straight through.  Without the kids, we used to be able to do it in 16, but they'll need extra breaks.

    If we plan on stopping, I try to make it as far as I can so we are not spending two full days in the car.  We drive as far as Savannah, GA, which takes about 12 and a half hours.  Then I'll get everyone out about six the following morning so we are at Walt Disney World by late morning.

    Things to save your sanity include DVD players - and one for each kid works best.  I have an eight year old and a four year old who get along perfectly well until one wants to watch the Imagination Movers and the other wants to watch Phineas and Ferb.  Keep toys and books that they haven't seen yet in a bag to pull out when they get bored, and keep on hand some small bottles of juice and snacks.  I don't take juice boxes or pouches, because I like to have the ability to re-close the small bottles and return them to the cooler. 

    Have fun and don't stress.  If you plan on leaving at two, have the first driver go to bed by eight, and both drivers can enjoy a full night of sleep the first night at Walt Disney World!
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Meet the Panelist: Anna, New Jersey

My name is Anna and I am a retired teacher with a J.D., a proud Navy wife with 30+ years of experience, mom to three daughters and a son-in-law, and grandmom to three tiny Disney fans. I have planned vacations for all sorts of special occasions and celebrations, but I really enjoy DVC vacations, helping military families, and assisting those with special dietary needs.    Learn More About Anna

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