First time using an ECV, just a little nervous

[erincon23]

We've been to Disney many times, but the arthritis in my feet and ankles has gotten to a point where I don't think I would enjoy the trip at all if I have to walk and stand in line the whole time. Two years ago, I reached a point where I sat on a bench, in tears, and called DH and DS, who were off on an attraction, and told them to go get a wheelchair, I wasn't walking one more step. So I've decided to rent an ECV for the first time. I know I'm going to feel stupid and like I'm trying to get away with something - and I know that's all in my own head - but I'm quite nervous about all of this. I'm traveling with my DH, but he'll be golfing every morning, and I don't intend to miss all that park time, so I'll be on my own for several hours each day. I've researched the DAS, read all the threads, so I think I'm prepared, but does anyone have any little tips that will make this easier? Anything I should watch out for or expect that a newbie wouldn't have thought of?

 

[CatNipRules]

I'm the same way. I've broken my ankles so much that the arthritis is awful. I also have fibromyalgia. BEtween those things an ECV is a must.

Just know one thing, you will never see any of these people again. Who cares what they think?

Are you renting from an offsite company? I strongly recommend it. Depending on when you are going, Disney can run out of ECVs during the day. It happened during our visit last year. It's also cheaper to rent from an off site company.

If you want to get a feeling for an ECV go,to,your local Target, Walmart or grocery store and practice on one of their ECVs. It makes it easier when your there.

just take it easy and at your own pace. Most of the rides you can take your ECV in. Some you have to transfer to a wheelchair. If you have any questions at the park, just ask the Cast Members. They will guide you and make your day great.

 

[erincon23]

Thanks. I don't have any trouble standing for short periods of time (10 minutes or less), and NO trouble transferring. I walk all over at home, but it's limited to shorter bursts. I recently went to a convention and was on my feet in line and walking through the convention center for three days - that was way too much, and much less than Disney would be. I am planning to rent from an off-site place and have it delivered to our resort. I haven't called to do it yet, and our trip is less than 4 weeks out, so I better get on that.

 

[Betty Rohrer]

Thanks. I don't have any trouble standing for short periods of time (10 minutes or less), and NO trouble transferring. I walk all over at home, but it's limited to shorter bursts. I recently went to a convention and was on my feet in line and walking through the convention center for three days - that was way too much, and much less than Disney would be. I am planning to rent from an off-site place and have it delivered to our resort. I haven't called to do it yet, and our trip is less than 4 weeks out, so I better get on that.

practice around your resort before you try the bus is my tip. bet by the end first day you are wondering what took you so long. different reason but been there done that. have a great trip

 

[gap2368]

a few tips for you ( I will say I can not use an ECV but I do go a lot with a friend that use one)

1 when she did rent her ECV she would spend 5-10 minutes at the resort seeing how it stoped started turned ( she said ever ECV was a little different) and the few minutes really made a big difference fro her. If you are taking the Disney busses pratice partial parking.

2 we always try to be at the back of RD, My friend says driving an ECV in a crowded area is the most stressful thing, so hang back a bit and go slow the rides will not go away. ( we were waiting at HS near the back before opening and talking to a CM he ended up giving us 2 any time FP just out of the blue, )

3 people will not see you ( and some will have a disability where they quiet literally can not see you) so be prepared to stop suddenly, MY friend will just smile at people that cut her off.

4 Most rides you can take you ECV in but you can down load the Map for people with disability from disney ( at the bottom of the page) https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/ There are a few that you can not take your ECV in you will be give a way to access the ride either by using a wheel chair, having a return time ticket, going thought the exit, or another way. ( the CM at the ride will let you know)

5 even thought my friend and I go all the time to disney she will smile at the CM when entering any line as one day the line will be ECV accessible and the next it will not be ( dose not happened to often) and really CM need some pixie dust too and what better way then a smile.

6 My friend uses glow stick at night so people see her ECV. Be careful of the light on the ECV as they are at the right hight for a child in a stroller or little one walking. I have another friend the has a head lap around her basket and aimed at the ground right in front of her ECV. but your want some light ( and you can get a good amount of glow stick for a dollar at the dollar store and how dose not like glow stick.


oh one more thing I would take your ECV in all lines with you even if you have a FP as some times something can happen ( they need to add another car to the track, someone take a little longer loading, things like this) and your 10 minute FP line can turn into 15 or more. If you need to get out and walk park your ECV and walk around a store, or stand for a bit while watching the parade.

This reminds me of another thing turn it off ( The ECV) when sitting still for any amount of time ( even when you are in line) the ECV should last all day but only if you turn it off) you can bring the plug with you and charge it if need be.

I think that is all that I can think of Have a great trip

 

[erincon23]

a few tips for you ( I will say I can not use an ECV but I do go a lot with a friend that use one)

1 when she did rent her ECV she would spend 5-10 minutes at the resort seeing how it stoped started turned ( she said ever ECV was a little different) and the few minutes really made a big difference fro her. If you are taking the Disney busses pratice partial parking.

2 we always try to be at the back of RD, My friend says driving an ECV in a crowded area is the most stressful thing, so hang back a bit and go slow the rides will not go away. ( we were waiting at HS near the back before opening and talking to a CM he ended up giving us 2 any time FP just out of the blue, )

3 people will not see you ( and some will have a disability where they quiet literally can not see you) so be prepared to stop suddenly, MY friend will just smile at people that cut her off.

4 Most rides you can take you ECV in but you can down load the Map for people with disability from disney ( at the bottom of the page) https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/ There are a few that you can not take your ECV in you will be give a way to access the ride either by using a wheel chair, having a return time ticket, going thought the exit, or another way. ( the CM at the ride will let you know)

5 even thought my friend and I go all the time to disney she will smile at the CM when entering any line as one day the line will be ECV accessible and the next it will not be ( dose not happened to often) and really CM need some pixie dust too and what better way then a smile.

6 My friend uses glow stick at night so people see her ECV. Be careful of the light on the ECV as they are at the right hight for a child in a stroller or little one walking. I have another friend the has a head lap around her basket and aimed at the ground right in front of her ECV. but your want some light ( and you can get a good amount of glow stick for a dollar at the dollar store and how dose not like glow stick.


oh one more thing I would take your ECV in all lines with you even if you have a FP as some times something can happen ( they need to add another car to the track, someone take a little longer loading, things like this) and your 10 minute FP line can turn into 15 or more. If you need to get out and walk park your ECV and walk around a store, or stand for a bit while watching the parade.

This reminds me of another thing turn it off ( The ECV) when sitting still for any amount of time ( even when you are in line) the ECV should last all day but only if you turn it off) you can bring the plug with you and charge it if need be.

I think that is all that I can think of Have a great trip

Thank you so much! Great tips!

 

[Tiggerish]

Your ECV will have a dial that controls its speed. One end has a turtle (slow) and the opposite end a rabbit (fast). You wants to drive up the bus ramp with the control in the middle, that is, half way between turtle and rabbit. As soon as you are up the ramp you should pause and turn the dial all the way down to slowest turtle. Then you makes a right turn to line up down the middle of the aisle and back into the spot the driver will have cleared. It is just like parallel parking a car. Most likely the bus driver will offer to help get you into place. Let the driver help, they are experts. Once parked, you will transfer from the ECV into a regular seat and the remainder of your party (up to 5 people) will be allowed to board through the rear door.

When getting off the bus, all the other people including your party get off. The driver will unhook the ECV and help you get angled to drive down the ramp. Again, turtle mode is best and make sure to keep straight until you are all the way clear of the ramp. The ramp has an edge on it and if you try to turn to soon, you can tip over.

 

[AprilsZoo]

My tip is that every time you hear a click when starting or stopping, you are eating up your battery power.... So use the speed control someone else mentioned turned to "turtle" in congested areas, or whenever you need to go slower instead of squeeze-release-squeeze-release.... Your battery will last a LOT longer this way.

Oh, and besides helping to extend battery life, turning off the ECV while you are sitting still is a safety precaution as well... Especially in line— I've lost count of how many kids have tried to grab my controls (while their parents are either oblivious or laughing about how cute it is... Umm, no, it is not. ) Not to mention how many times I've reached for something and grabbed my own controls accidentally. Oops It only takes a second to turn the key on/off... But lurching forward (or backward) unexpectedly, could cause a very un-magical experience for yourself or someone near you. If you start out making a conscious effort to switch off anytime you are stopped, then it will be a habit by the end of your first day, and before long you'll find yourself turning that little key without even thinking about it.

Another tip related to battery life.... If you have started out with a fully charged battery, and have remembered to turn off the ECV while not moving and have not been "stop-start"ing all the time, and haven't been criss-crossing from one corner of the park to the other over and over multiple times a day-- then your battery should last the whole day. If you find you are in the yellow before late in the afternoon (I'd say before dark, really) give the rental company a call and let them know.... They should be willing to swap out your ECV for you. Be sure to tell them you've been taking steps to conserve battery power and you still are having the issue-- that way they won't waste your time going over all the ways to conserve power, before they decide to swap equipment.

Have a great trip... I bet you'll look back at the end and wonder why you put off using an ECV for so long. You'll see— it's not a step backwards, it's a step forward... To independence, and freedom from pain & misery... Think of it as the pixie-dust you need to be able to have an enjoyable Disney experience. It's just motorized pixie-dust.... Lol

 

[Selket]

I have terrible arthritis in both knees - both need replacing and for the past couple of years now I've rented an ECV. For some trips I've used it mainly for long distances - and was able to park it more and walk - other times my knees were so bad I stayed in it much of the time. I usually do try to park and walk into stores for shopping. I don't always take it in a que but I def would if I didn't have a FP for that ride. I don't take it into restaurants usually either. Some of the QS places can be a good place to charge it though (like seating around Pecos Bills).

I'm not sure I can add to the great tips above but really don't worry so much about what other people will think. I've never had an issue with that (from anyone saying anything to me). The bus drivers will also help you park it on the bus if you don't want to do it. Learn how to put the ECV into the mode where you can roll it easily (when it's off) - and that will help when you're trying to get it in and out of the hotel room (the one I rent has a switch on the base - that's what the CM's will use to move your scooter if you park at an attraction and they're trying to tidy up all the strollers and ECVS - lol). I also carry some of the disposable plastic shower caps (I bought some off Amazon.com) to cover the area where the handlebars and key are in case of rain. I have some disposable plastic rain coats too (that are sold in small plastic bags - small enough for a pocket) to cover the ECV in case of an unexpected rain shower. Have a great trip!

 

[Simba's Mom]

And I've found that other ECV users are really helpful if you have any questions. I remember the first time I had to rent an ECV, and I was solo besides! When I needed to use the restroom, I had no idea what to do with my ECV, so I just drove up to some other ECV users and asked them. Great tips here, especially the one about the turtle and the rabbit. I drive with one hand on that control as much as possible. Just one last tip-after you go through security, make sure the strap on your purse is out of the way. Twice, my scooter suddenly stopped shortly after I got into a park (no, I didn't learn the first time it happened). Turns out that when the security people put my purse back in my basket, the strap got out and after I drove a little and jostled things, the strap got tangled with my key and turned my scooter off.

 

[arminnie]

I had not used an ECV in 7-8 years (needed one for a temporary problem back then) until my trip this past month so I felt like a first time user. My number one tip is to tell the driver up front that you are new to this. The drivers were very helpful, but be aware that the procedure was not the same with each.

Some just had me get off, and then they rolled it into a parking place.
Some gave explicit instructions on how to turn.
Some actually turned the tiller for me.
Getting off most drivers just manually turned the ECV around for me to go straight off.
Others had me do the backup and turn around on my own.
Plus there are 2-3 places on the bus where an ECV can be parked so you might be on the right side if it's a 3 ECV bus.

So don't expect the same procedure every time. The only time I didn't get it right was when my DH (who gets left and right mixed up) tried to give me directions.

I did not have any real problems driving in a crowd. I went very slow and the ECV stops immediately when you let go. The only issue I had was that a guy behind me fell on my ECV when I stopped quickly so I didn't run into someone. Didn't hurt anybody - but he was so embarrassed. It was a young guy and his friends all laughed at him. Nobody got mad though.

I purchased my ECV on Amazon for just over $600. Even if I only used it at Disney it wouldn't take that many trips to justify the purchase. I did use it for a tour of some gardens that covered several acres.

My DH is not as into the parks as I am so some days I went on my own. I still enjoyed myself very much.

IRL I rarely see someone on an ECV even at the big box stores, and when I do it is usually someone very old or obviously in a bad condition. I would probably be very self conscious using one at the grocery store . But at WDW ECVs are everywhere. Nobody bats an eye at someone on an ECV.

As the front basket is pretty small I put a backpack on back of the seat. It was easy to take it on and off and gave me extra storage. I also brought some clear shower caps (bought a small pack on Amazon) to cover the controls in case of rain but never needed them. I always keep the charger with me.

Have fun!

 

[arminnie]

Also wanted to add another point about using an ECV.

We stayed at the Swan our first two nights. The elevators were incredibly busy. I often had to wait a bit to have enough room to get my ECV in an elevator. That was a hassle. I doubt if I would stay there again.

I had no problem at SSR - I don't think I ever even had to share an elevator. We've stayed at BLT other times. Even though it's a high rise we've never had a problem with packed elevators.

And not all of the buildings at OKW have elevators. I think there may be other properties at WDW that do not have elevators so be sure to check out that you don't end up in a room with no elevator access - on or off property.

 

[glocon]

Do you go thru regular lines with the ecv or is there a different place to enter?
Thanks!

 

[gap2368]

you will go thought the regular lines for a good number of rides.

Here is a few things that may happen

FP and stand by is accessible ( this is most of the time)

some lines have stars but they are fair enough in the line that you can go in FP or stand by and when you get to the point in line, the CM will direct you to an alternative way. TSMM ( HS) Splash (MK) are 2 that do this. ( I think this is the second most comping thing to happen)

Some line you will need to use a wheel char to do the line. POTCB, Space (MK) are two that do this, there maybe others.

and very few you will be give a return time to come back to ride, if this happens you will be told where to go for the return JC, BTMRR, (MK) spaceship earth (EPCOT) are the few.

 

[Trinette Blackwell]

I had one for our first trip. You sound like I did before, went to a convention and walked, I was so miserable and was in a lot of pain.
When we decided to go to Disney, I decided it's best if I get the scooter, like you I was reluctant because I didn't want any sneers or whatever, but like someone said , your not going to see these folks, and you have to take care of you.
I used an off site company , they're listed on Disneys website, they delivered it, it was very easy to use. And yes watch out for the people, also from my experience, I had swelling in my ankles, from sitting, so get up no move around if you can. Enjoy your trip!!!

 

[Shellyred8]

I wouldn't worry about what others think. There are more and more people using them these days so you will stand out less. The only issue I have is with ECV users that don't know how to use them. We try to be considerate of people in them and leave extra room when we are around them, but we had one experience where a gal didn't know how to use the ECV very well and ended up running into DH. She apologized profusely stating that she was still getting used to using it. We all laughed about it and went on our way. But if it had been a small child instead of DH, there could've been a very different outcome to the story.

I hope you have a great trip!

 

[Hopefully]

One other tip if your travelling partner will be golfing and you will be travelling alone. Get a door stop of some sort for your hotel room door. It is very difficult to get in and out without either someone holding the door open or using the door stop to hold it open when you are alone.
I will also re-iterate that you need to be totally aware of your surroundings, as others will not watch out for you. I have had people stop dead in front of me, cut me off, walk into me etc. I found driving the scooter to be very tiring because of the intense concentration required when in crowds.
Good Luck

 

[CatNipRules]

One other tip if your travelling partner will be golfing and you will be travelling alone. Get a door stop of some sort for your hotel room door. It is very difficult to get in and out without either someone holding the door open or using the door stop to hold it open when you are alone.
I will also re-iterate that you need to be totally aware of your surroundings, as others will not watch out for you. I have had people stop dead in front of me, cut me off, walk into me etc. I found driving the scooter to be very tiring because of the intense concentration required when in crowds.
Good Luck

Exactly. Which is why my son helps me watch out for others. We've got a system worked out and it works pretty well. Although on our last trip this man literally saw us and still cut in front of us. I just looked at him and said, Really? LOL!! I don't so much mind the kids, but the adults that should know better. I try to leave plenty of space between us, but sometimes It's hard...

 

[erincon23]

Also wanted to add another point about using an ECV.

We stayed at the Swan our first two nights. The elevators were incredibly busy. I often had to wait a bit to have enough room to get my ECV in an elevator. That was a hassle. I doubt if I would stay there again.

I had no problem at SSR - I don't think I ever even had to share an elevator. We've stayed at BLT other times. Even though it's a high rise we've never had a problem with packed elevators.

And not all of the buildings at OKW have elevators. I think there may be other properties at WDW that do not have elevators so be sure to check out that you don't end up in a room with no elevator access - on or off property.

We're staying at Pop Century - I've stayed there several times before. I called reservations to request a king bed, and mentioned that I'll be using an ECV for the first time, and the very nice reservationist noted on our file that we needed a first floor, close to the front room. Whether we get it or not, I don't know, but she was very helpful. Thanks for your observations on the other resorts!