Tips for going with a large group

[Jomrog]

We are struggling with a decision about going to WDW in early August with 2 other families (cousins). I know that the kids will have a blast because they get along great with their cousins. We are just a little concerned about scheduling & logistics. The good news is that we have vacationed together for the past few years, but never at WDW. We have been there a couple of times already but it's the first time for my brother & his family & I don't want to infringe on their experience. How have other people handled the logistics of a large group?

Our other concern is being there in August with the hot weather & large crowds. We are considering going in November but it will just be us & I think the kids wouldn't have as much fun.

Thanks in advance for any tips & advice.

 

[powellrj]

my advise would be to plan to meet for certain key events during the day like character meals, and the rest of the time let the families spend time together so you can see and do what your family wants to see and do. Its hard to keep a large group with children together all day, so if you just plan something everyday to meet and do together, you get the best of both worlds.

 

[allforpooh]

We had our first ever family trip (12 People) in early March, it was a blast. Cell phones were a key part or our enjoyment. We started out the first couple of days mostly together sometimes in 2 groups, then the rest of the time everyone met up off and on. We made dinner PS reservations each day and if anyone wasn't going to be there then they just called so I could adjust the PS. We also had a tentative park schedule - what parks what days but were pretty flexible.

Denise

 

[tlbwriter]

We went with 10 people last December. We did all of our planning ahead of time - decided which days to spend in which parks, and made PS accordingly. When we got there, we usually split up into smaller groups for the day, and got together at our PS seatings. Cell phones were *very* important, since our daughter sometimes went with other members of our group. As long as you don't try to make everybody stay in lockstep, it's great!

 

[dismom9761]

If you do stay together plan and expect everything to go at a slow pace.We went w/ 12 people(6 kids).A simple bathroom stop can be a major event.Take it slow and enjoy the company.

 

[Jomrog]

Thanks for the advise. We will definitely make good use of our cell phones if we go. I think that the poster who said to take it slow & enjoy the company hit the nail on the head. Sometimes you get so caught up in plans, that you forget to stop & just enjoy the sights & the sounds. I can't wait to see my kids, cousins, nephew & nieces faces as they get to enjoy WDW together.

That's my perspective. Now if only I could sell it to my DH. LOL!

Another question, if I could. Have any of you had to deal with certain people getting to PS's late & such? Will Disney still honor your ps?