ECV Company? Canopy importance?

LoveDisneyMom

Mouseketeer

Joined

Jan 5, 2012

• Jun 29, 2015

• #1

Hi there!

We will be in DisneyWorld July 9-15th and I am 27 weeks pregnant with my third child. I know I cant handle the walking as well as the heat so I have decided to rent an ECV for the first time and know nothing about them.

I have done reading on here and have looked at the various reccomended companies. I really like the idea of a canopy to protect from the sun.... are they as useful as they sound? Walker Mobility so far sounds like the best option for $200 for 6 days including the canopy/insurance. I read that someone doesnt like the way you have to operate it though with your fingers. Can anyone comment on this?

If anyone has any better companies to reccomend that have the option of a canopy (if it is indeed helpful) that would be great too!

Thanks so much

 

JennyDrake

Darkwing Duck's Biggest Fan

Joined

Aug 8, 2000

• Jun 29, 2015

• #2

I don't know about the canopy, but I had great customer service from Walker. In July I would highly recommend a canopy for some sort of shade. And take a towel to sit on so you don't stick to the vinyl seat....

 

D

DvcDoc

Mouseketeer

Joined

Mar 29, 2011

• Jun 29, 2015

• #3

I have used Walker a number of times, and always found them to be very professional. The canopy is an ok thing, but be aware that you won't be allowed to take it into some shows as it blocks too much of the view of people behind you. FotLK and Wings of Wonder come immediately to mind. I did my trip last week without the canopy, but did wear a hat everywhere and did not have any problems. Have a great time!

 

SueM in MN

combining the teacups with a roller coaster

Moderator

Joined

Aug 23, 1999

• Jun 29, 2015

• #4

Most people find the canopies more of a hassle than a help.

As was already posted, you will need to remove and/or fold it for shows where it might interfere with other people's view. You might also find it interferes with your ability to see, especially when backing up.

The other thing to keep in mind is that it really shade well except when the sun is pretty high overhead.

 

JenniBugInPink

Nobody has seen them since 1982

Joined

Aug 2, 2007

• Jun 30, 2015

• #5

I also love Walker, but I vote no on the sun shade. I think they're hazard and a headache. I'm sure that the fine folks at Walker would be glad to bring one and let you see what you think though. You'll be able to tell immediately, I think, whether you want to fool with it or not. If you want it, you can keep it, and if not, he can take it back with him.

 

L

Lindava

Earning My Ears

Joined

Aug 20, 2014

• Jun 30, 2015

• #6

I would recommend a canopy during the summer months as the sun in Orlando can be brutal, it gets hot in VA but not like I felt it my first trip to Disney. In the Fall/Winter I was comfortable without the canopy though. I also highly recommend Walker Mobility, only company I use and never a problem. Have a great time.

 

Last edited: Jun 30, 2015

Bete

DIS Veteran

Joined

Sep 14, 1999

• Jun 30, 2015

• #7

The canopy can be a help, but it's a hassle, too. I would consider a very good sun hat instead. Also, a good pair of shades. Perhaps get some of those neck wraps that cool you. There are cooling vests, too.

Find shade when viewing a parade and such. Stay very hydrated, as well.

 

anonymousegirl

DIS Veteran

Joined

May 14, 2008

• Jul 1, 2015

• #8

If you decide against the canopy, be sure to cover your arms. Driving the ECV will have the tops of your arms exposed more than when you are walking along. I think there are some lightweight breathable shirts with three-quarter sleeves.

Be careful with shorts too. I would opt for capris to keep the thighs and knees covered.

 

POOHsie

DIS Veteran

Joined

May 4, 2010

• Jul 1, 2015

• #9

I seem to recall that the Disney buses make you take the canopy down when boarding your scooter on a bus. So that would be another hassle.