First time in summer questions??

[mackeyapp]

We are planning our first trip to DW in summer and I have a few concerns and questions. We generally spend New Years in DW and the weather and clothing can change drastically. Do you think our kids and DH and I would be better off still wearing running shoes for the parks or do you recommend sandals, etc. We all have crocs that we wear around our pool in the summer but generally runners are the shoes of choice for the parks. Any suggestions? I am afraid of overheated feet with socks and shoes and not sure what to expect. Any clothes and footwear suggestions would be appreciated. 07/26-08/04.

 

[DDreneeT]

We went in mid-July a few years ago and we all wore teva's. they worked great, dd was 7 and had a pair too. we wore those to all the parks and flipflops to the pool, etc. Also, if you have never been when its hot, you might want to pick up a water mist fan at walmart. We had 2 and they really helped keep us cool. I even saw a family sitting in a shaded area when we were taking a short break, they had a 6month old baby and you could see the sweat on it, I gave one of our fans to them. I felt that baby needed it more than I did, and that still left us with one to share. We also would put water bottles in the freezer part of the fridge, then wrap then in a washcloth before going to a park, as the ice began to melt, we would have very cold ice water to drink and the washcloth would be cold too, so we could wipe the sweat off our faces with something cool. I know you didn't ask for these tips but I hope it helps. if you have anymore questions, just ask me

 

[4eyedbuzzard]

We are going in early June - our first ever summer visit. I've been in central FL in the summer before however, and it can be brutally hot and humid - especially midday and early afternoon. Our plan is to hit the parks at opening - go back to our resort(very close offsite pool home) at noon or 1, hang at the house or by the resort pool, and then return to the parks late afternoon/early evening.

I would suggest light fabrics and light colored clothing(white/light clothes absorb less radiant heat), hats, sunscreen, staying hydrated, staying in the shade when possible, air conditioned shows/attractions in the afternoons, etc. Common sense and not trying to overdo it will be your best strategy. Your feet actually aren't a big problem when it comes to cooling. Most of your body's heat is given off by your head, torso, etc. As your head, legs, arms are generally uncovered, they are free to liberate heat mostly via evaporative and convective cooling. Wearing light airy shirts/tops is therefore a good idea to help the torso get rid of some heat as well. Comfort and blister prevention are bigger problems with the feet and wet feet can be a problem. If you get your socks/shoes soaked on a ride, wring the water out of the socks and pin them to a backpack to dry. Good sandals like Teva's are great but DO NOT forget to sunscreen the tops of your feet.

 

[mackeyapp]

Thanks so much to both of you for the information. There are 6 of us going ranging in ages 9 and up. DH and I can handle the heat but our youngest DS has asthma and I do have some concerns. We spend alot of time out of doors in the summer here but I know its going to be much different to what we are used too. We will be prepared!! 2 months from today, I can't believe it. It's going to be some surprise for the family. They have no idea about the pending trip. They are going to flip!!!

 

[willful]

The best advice during the hot summer months in Orlando is to drink plenty of water and put on plenty of sunscreen. Put in Crystal Lite packets to make it more drinkable. As you become dehydrated, you will be more tired and more grumpy (not too much possible health risks). Also go see inside air conditioned shows like Hall of Presidents, the American Adventure or the Carousel of Progress every so often to get out of the heat.

Another cool tip is to get those camel water backpacks. The cold water on your back will help to cool you through the day as well as the water will keep you hydrated. Most of these backpacks also have compartments for food and other items, making them very versatile.

If you plan to wear sandals without socks, bring moleskin. You can find it at Rite-Aid, Target, and Wal-Mart. It's much better than band-aids for dealing with blisters as it won't slide around or fall off easily.

As far as clothing, I usually wear Under Armour t-shirts, tanks, shorts. And would change usually during our afternoon breaks. So you might want to pack extra clothing or you could also do a quick small load of laundry if you had the facilities.

Hope these help! That's exciting that it's a surprise trip for your family. And it'll be exciting for you to see their expression.