EPCOT; Mother and Son; Spaceship Earth
  • On Feb 13, 2013
    Courtney 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.

    We are traveling this May to WDW . It is our first visit and first long drive with our two children (ages 5 and 2). My question is, is it better to drive all night (around a 10-11 hrs with stops) and hope the kids nap in car then arrive early at park?

    Hello Courtney!

    I am so happy that you are taking your first Walt Disney World vacation!  There is nothing like experiencing the magic through the eyes of your children and while your youngest may not remember this trip, I promise it's something that you'll never forget!  From one mom to another, keep the tissues handy!
    With five children, long drives to Disney World is something my family has experienced many times with all different ages.  When traveling with younger children, I recommend traveling at night.  Most often the children may not fall asleep at first, but eventually they will tucker out.  The children will usually get a good nights rest and will not become restless in the car as they would during the day.  
    When we are driving to Walt Disney World I dress the children in their pajamas and bring their blankets, pillows or any must have sleep items.  Between the darkness and the gentle motion from the car, they will typically nod off to sleep pretty quickly.  If your youngest happens to be potty training during this trip, I recommend a collapsible potty.  This wonderful little invention was a miracle during the first parts of our trip before the children nodded off to sleep. You will also want to pack snacks and drink because waking up in the car versus the bed they normally wake up in can be a little disorienting. Usually, a sip of drink will have them falling peacefully back to sleep.  
    A little piece of advice, when you are not driving make sure to get some rest yourself!  Your little ones will have had a peaceful nights sleep and be ready to go the next day so make sure to trade off your driving responsibility to get some rest!  I hope this helps and please let us know if you have anymore questions!  Enjoy your first Walt Disney World vacation and get ready to make the memories of a lifetime!

    Best Wishes!
    Mandy
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Meet the Panelist: Mandy, South Carolina

My husband and I are the parents of five rambunctious Disney loving children.I  I'm passionate about helping families find the magic that is Disney , so let me show you all the magic and savings that awaits on your next Disney vacation! Learn More About Mandy

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