I am looking for opinions...
I have 5 boys, 10,7,4,2 1/2& 1 1/2. We are going to Orlando the end of Feb. and can't decide what would be less stressful...driving a camper down or just flying?
A camper would be a couple days of driving and may be stressful, but we would have more options, plus would be easier to pack. A plane would be 2 1/2 hours(actually on the plane) on top of all the airport stuff and perfect packing. Plus, all the stress of keeping the little ones happy on the plane. With 5 kids and 2 adults I am not even sure how we would sit on the plane?
Has anyone done either? Any suggestions or info would be GREAT! We really need to figure this out! Thanks.
Janis
WOW! I'm impressed that you are going to DisneyWorld! You are used to being busy so you know either option could be challenging. My family and I love flying but we also have our own ways to make our travel less expensive. We have never driven because, knowing my family, we are comfortable in a car for more than 8 hours (my son gets carsick!)
I'm curious.. where you will be staying? Also, will you have the all-inclusive dinner package?
I'm not sure from a cost standpoint, what expenses you will incur, either way. I would chart your expenses and see whay you come up with. So here's what you need to ask yourself:
Are you renting a Camper (camper vs. airline tickets?)
If you fly, will you have to rent a car - (Yes you can stay on property and use the busses but you have to determine if you want/need the flexibility to have a car. If you have the all-inclusive dinner package, you will probably be staying on property anyway. Bus transportation can still take time waiting for busses.)
If you go via plane... will you have someone drive you to the airport or have some kind of transportation - like a limo, dropping you at the door? Or are you driving and parking at the airport (Really hard with that many children!!! - Getting on a bus with all luggage and children!))
If you go through the airport - one RULE that I have implemented with my children - It has actually become like a game: The "no talking rule" - DURING security check in. Just the little things that the kids say (or anyone!) can be concerning. Just from the moment before we approach the x-ray scanner to the moment we leave the area, my kids don't talk. Also... make sure all hot wheel cars are out of their pockets!
I love DisneyWorld! I've been there with my family about a dozen times. You will have a great time!
I wouldn't worry about the plane ride, it's short. Just have to make sure they all eat or drink or if old enough eat chewing gum during take off and landing.
However logistics must be a challenge, getting to the airport you will need a limo. Will you take 3 car seats with you so you wont have to rent them in FL? That is a lot of luggage to carry for 2 adults... One tip if you can fly from Midway. It is smaller, better parking, less delays...
I have no idea how long it would take to drive down there, but I don't think you can take a look at many things unless you want to make this a long lasting road trip. Are your kids good sleepers in the car?? Have you traveled with an RV before, are you familiar with the routine (find a spot, water tank, smelly tank, etc., will your kids easily sleep in there? Can you fit the car seats, RVs have slightly different seats).
I would probably choose the plane, as you have one "stressful" day and its over. Just needs good planing.
Congtats!!!! I hope you and your family have a great time. I only have 1 child ( with ADHD ) but we fly everwhere. It is quicker just a few hoiurs verses 2 days. It will be a bit stressful at the airport but it will be worth it in the end. arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare and come well prepared ( hand held games exc.... If you are flying out of Midway they do have a play area for the kids. Once you go thru security make sure you buy some food, snacks, and drinks for the plan. To be safe ( just in case) Have some motion sickness meds. If the kids are excited and never have flown sometimes the motion of the plan upsets there stomach. My son is 8 nad once in a while his stomach will try to rebel so we now just give him a dose before we enter the plane. Also who cares if they are a little loud or wiggly you are going to Orlando with a plane full of other parents and kids. If anyone thows you looks or says anything smile sweetly. The younger couples with no kids, and alot of older crankier people ( especially going to Florida) tend to think all kids should be quiet just for them... We have run into a few of them (we go to Florida every year)every time. Just smile and think of the fun your family will have Make some great memories!!!