Large groups--what kind of vehicle do you rent?

[AllesonWonderland]

Okay, I know there are a lot of variables that may make this question difficult to answer, but I thought I'd throw it out there.

We're going to WDW over Spring Break, there will be 9 of us total--7 adults and 2 kids. I was planning on renting 2 cars. (Last time we went I got a midsize for 8 days for $147--don't know if that's possible or not, but my first thought was the cheaper the better on cars.) My brother has already raised the question of whether 2 cars will be enough. (We're staying at Windsor Hills) I thought it was doable, but the more I think about it, I realize if any more than 5 of us want to go there or home, it requires both cars. If 2 people sleep in and the rest of us want to be there at rope drop it will be an issue. So, do we just suck it up and deal with it? Try to rent one larger vehicle that would hold more people and one car? 3 cars? With parking prices going up that's probably something I'll have to factor in as well.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts/insight.

 

[jlewisinsyr]

Don't have an direct answer to your specific question, but wanted to remind you to consider valid drivers in your equation and make sure you include additional drivers at time of rental to ensure you are legally covered in the contract and not to let those who are not on the rental contract drive any of the vehicles.

 

[NotUrsula]

I'd say that it depends on how many nuclear families you have, and what their vacation habits are. If you've got three differing styles among the adults, you may need three vehicles, even if it does jack up your parking expenses.

Unless you are staying a really long time and going to theme parks every single day, the cumulative cost of parking is still likely to be less than the additional cost of renting a high-capacity vehicle. Big vans are VERY expensive most of the time.

 

[disneycruising]

I have done quite a few 'big' family trips. We always have each family get there own car. There is 2 reasons for this one is so every family can come and go as they please. The other is price, everyone can get what they feel they need and can afford.

 

[AllesonWonderland]

Thanks everyone! Good points! I'll be sure to divvy up the drivers so we're all covered. If we do 1 adult from each couple/family we should be good. I guess I'll just have to watch rates for minivans vs. regular cars to see what our best and/or most cost efficient options are. And I'll try to remember that just maybe my brothers might not want to spend every waking moment of the trip with me. Ha!!