Tips for traveling with a large group??

[shellybaxter]

DH and I (36 and 39) are going to WDW in January with four other adults(5?, 5?, 36, 27), four teens (15, 14, 10, 9), and two children (5 and 6). So everyone will have way different likes and dislikes, interests, and want to do lists. DH and I have never been with more than three people total.

For those of you with large families, or who've done the group thing before, what should we know? How much do you plan, I mean just one meal a day? Two? A certain park for each day? Meeting places ahead of time?

How can I help to make sure everyone is happy and enjoys their trip?

Any tips and/or advise welcome.

Thanks
Shelly

 

[hockey mom]

We went in April with 14,- 5 adults, 17, 16, 15, 15, 15, 14, 14, 10, and 4. I did all the planning and told them to meet us outside whatever park we attended that day. We all stuck together for the most part. I planned 3 dinners to be spent together and one breakfast. Lunches we also ate in the park and was a group decision. The older kids were very accomodating with the 4 yr old so that helped. After our return my DSis told me that my Dbil was bragging at what a great job I did to make sure that there was something for everyone.

 

[InstImpres]

I make my normal compulsive schedule and than let everyone decide which PS they want to be included on. I also book usually 2 special family events either Grand Gathering or Private Events. For the most part we usuallly start the day together, go our seperate ways midday (nap schedules etc.) and than meet back up nefore dinner.

The best tip is to remember everyone needs their space. Sometimes its great to be together but sometimes the "herd" is hard.

Good luck
Sandy

 

[Crazy Kanga]

Here's the best tip I can give. Don't do it! Just kidding (sort of).It was really stressful. I recomend splitting up into small groups as much as possible.

 

[zurgswife]

I also recommend splitting into smaller groups...and meeting for a dinner or something later....

 

[dopeys biggest fan]

I went in 98 for 10 days with DH, Sis, BIL, Niece, Uncle, cousin 2 grand mothers and 1 grandfater! we managed to have a wonderful trip inspite of the 3 wheelchairs and 1 stroller!

My suggestion to you is to come up with an itnerary of what parks you want to do on what days with PS's for dinner and just grab something for lunch. We also set aside 2 days as "what ever you want to do days" Where everyone went there seperate ways. This eliminated arguing over each attraction and or show to see.

Take everything with a grain of salt, and take your time! Rushing always causes conflicts!

good luck and have fun!!!