Are strollers nightmares at the park?

[abookworm]

We have a 2 yr old (and 5 & 8 yr olds) and we were planning on bringing an umbrella stroller. I've read in a few places where strollers were a real problem at DL. I read that some places are hard to get around with one and that having them stolen does happen (happened to a friend and another person I read about-both this fall)
I could use the stroller for just half a day I think and backpack him the other half if it's a real issue.
They are nice for carrying waterbottles, etc but I can live if one of us has to where a backpack for that stuff.
Just wondered what you all thought.
thanks

 

[shellyof4]

I would 100% have a stroller of some kind with a two year old at Disneyland. I actually own about 6 different kinds of baby carriers, and I'm bringing too, but Disney is big and they are long days so you will want a stroller.

Now, whether you rent Disney's strollers (which even if they get stolen, you can get another one by showing your receipt) or bring your own is up to you.

There is a thread from yesterday about strollers which I will see if I can dig up and post.

Even if some places are tight with a stroller you can just park it in that area and walk around to do the rides and then come back and get it before moving onto another area.

 

[abookworm]

thanks Shelly...from another Washingtonian! I'm thinking of using my pouch for quick up/downs and bring the backpack but not sure how long he'd stay in it!

 

[shellyof4]

And a fellow babywearer it looks like! Ya, I'm bringing my sling and my Ergo backpack. I'm still looking for that other post...I'll post when I find it...

 

[shellyof4]

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1323778

There you go...hope that works!

 

[abookworm]

thanks for the link, we were going to bring our stroller anyway for airport and other trips so it sounds like it's fine to bring it there-at least it's a small one. I'll have to do something obnoxious like a flag or something to it doesn't get stolen LOL

 

[tracer]

No matter where you are, in crowded areas strollers can be hard to get anywhere. That being said, I have never really had a hard time at DL with our stoller. There aren't any walk ways that they won't fit in. I love having my stoller because I can keep my kids from getting hurt by all the excited visitors huring from place to place. I have never had my stoller bothered with. If you are worried about having your stroller stolen, maybe you can rent one. I myself prefer to have my own stroller. There are designated stroller parking areas at each attraction and entertainment areas. On busier days most places have a CM lining stollers up to make more room and keep everything neat. I have had mine moved because of this but never tampured with.

 

[staley7580]

I would think twice about bringing a backpack. we were going to bring ours, and thought of it being such a hassle taking the baby in and out and on and off, for every ride. Also, after hours and hours of a 2 yo on your back, it might not be so comfortable. Totally bring a stroller, make sure it has a sunshade, basket for storage, and it reclines for baby to take a nap.

 

[Alex2kMommy]

I remember what the main part of the rented stroller looks like, but does it have a basket underneath? I'm vaguely remembering that was someone's complaint about renting one, no storage.

We brought our MacLaren, and I'm so glad we did. It mostly carried DS2, but when he wanted to be out, DS6 usually popped in for a break before the next ride. We did get a few strange looks from grown-ups about that, but when other kids were whining in the evening, DS6 was still happy and rarin' to go, so I didn't care.

We also used the stroller to carry the backpack whenever we could to give us a break. We left water and sweatshirts in the bottom, but took the backpack and camera bag with us whenever we had to leave the stroller.

ETA: Oh, and I also wanted to mention about getting around with the stroller. We had no trouble except at park opening and after a parade or fireworks. But for the most part, even it was so crowded, people were orderly and polite, so no problem there, just slow going. We went in September, so I suppose it might be tougher if you go at a very busy time.

 

[MATTERHORN]

Never had a single problem with any of ours, doubles, singles, jogging, etc after all our trips. They all fit fine, with the exception of a very few shops on Main Street with small doors. In all regular ride areas, they have never been a problem.

We leave stuff in it, nothing of importance though! And like PP said, if you don't want to deal with it, park it in a spot and hit that entire land, then come back to it later. Atleast you have it IF you need it!


Andrea