Parking ECV

[bjakmom]

Well, I have come to the conclusion that I will need an ECV this trip. I will be 6 weeks out from major kidney surgery and my recovery has gone well enough for me to make the trip, but I'm really done in after a two mile walk around the neighborhood.
So I will need the ECV for the 'long haul' during the day, but won't need to be in it all the time. Can I park and lock it in any stroller area? I know the CMs usually need to move the strollers - what about the ECVs?
Also, there will be a few times when I will be alone with DGrD(5) - will I be able to park the ECV outside of stores to walk in with her and hold her hand?
If I wanted to leave MK to go to GF with her for a meal and return to the park, is there somewhere near the front of the park that I can leave the ECV parked for several hours?
TIA for any help or tips, I am feeling a little overwhelmed about the ECV and a 5 yo - my DD and her BF will be with us most of the time, though. I'm just trying to stay focused on how lucky and happy I am that things went well and I'm going to see the castle lights in just a few days!!

 

[Cheshire Figment]

If you are renting off-site you will have the ECV all the time, and can take it on the monorail when going to/from GF.

If you have a Disney ECV and you leave it near the front gate, after an hour or so somebody will probably think it has been abandoned and it will get returned to stroller rental. If that happens you may be able to get a replacement if they have any available when you return.

Normally they will not hold an ECV at stroller rental for someone's return because (a) there really is no way to identify it as held, and (b) CMs go on breaks or are moved to other positions and the same person may not be there when you get back.

 

[LindaBabe]

And remember you can't take your grand daughter "on" the ecv, and having her walk beside you you'll have to be real careful - adults don't seem to "see" short people very well, and with the ecv, you'll be one of the short people.

My grand daughter used to put her hand on the handle bar which helped me keep track of her.

You can park outside stores and attractions. At attractions where you need to do, the host or hostess can tell you where to park, but you might want to stay on the ecv where you can ie. small world (the hill out is a killer on foot).

 

[mechurchlady]

Lock: Disney does not allow the chaining of stroller, ECVs or wheelchairs to fixed objects like lamp posts and railings. They will move anything in their way or while tidying up even if they have to us bolt cutters. Just a wee bit of clarification. Do feel free to park the ECV in designated areas or if none are found then out of the way such as against a building. Do take the key and try to make the ECV unique with a towel or junk in the basket.

You could try a harness and leash for your grandchild if she is a runner. Some kids dart off faster than a track star. The ECV for me is just a way to get from point A to Point B at any park. At SeaWorld I parked the ECV and walked onto a ride as the line was so short, off season. The ECV is a tool to help you have a good time and you do not have to use it all the time.

Definitely take the ECV with you on the monorail to GF and back to MK. GF is a big place and by taking the ECV you can wander around the hotel grounds. Maybe the kid will want to go see something. Save your energy as much as possible. You would park it along a wall next to the restaurant. It at times is easier to walk into shops than use an ECV for example. By using the ECV for shows your save your energy. Disney and other parks can have preshows, hidden lines, and hidden waiting areas. At Disneyland you see the Jungle Cruise ride but do not notice the upstairs waiting areas. Bugs Life has a long winding down hill path that you do not see then a preshow holding area at both DLR and WDW. Save your energy so that you can enjoy your granddaughter. I have tried pushing myself and get rather grumpy and do not enjoy shopping for groceries let alone amusement parks so now I use an ECV when I need one.

good luck and hugs
Laurie

 

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

You could consider making up a sign that says "IN USE" and tying it to the handlebars/seatback (maybe with your name and Cell phone number?)

you could make them up before your leave for the park, maybe even have a "helper" color it for you!

 

[bjakmom]

Thanks for all of the great suggestions, everyone!!
I am feeling so much better every day - am taking the numbers for ECV rentals with me and will see how I do the first day. Feeling prepared and informed certainly helps when dealing with a completely new situation - now if I could just finish packing!!