umbrella stroller or rental stroller for 5 year old?

[cepmom]

We are going to WDW in August (myself, DH and 3 DD, 15, 8 and 5). My DD5 has not used a stroller for a long time, but she does not do well walking a lot especially when she's tired. I've already decided we will need some kind of stroller for her for touring the parks as I don't expect she'll hold up with all the walking and the heat/humidity.

I found an umbrella stroller today at CVS for only $5.00; it was easy to push and the handles are actually long enough for me so I don't have to hunch over, but it does not have a sun shade/canopy. If I remember correctly, the ones you rent have a sun shade. Can anyone confirm this for me? Would you suggest an umbrella type stroller or the rentals for a 5 year old?

 

[daisylove]

Have her sit in it and then try and push it. For $5.00 I would go ahead and get it. If it becomes a pain you are not out much and you could leave it for someone else to use or just leave it without losing $$. If it is too hard to push with her in it then just rent. We still bring our volo for our 5 1/2 and I am so glad to have it. My Dd will ride in it at night from the bus to the room/park to the car whatever and she is happy for it. But if you rent and it is not available to use outside the park she will just have to get used to that. It will help immensely in the park!!!

 

[DisneyMomx7]

If you can find an umbrella stroller with a canopy (they usually are not too expensive) that she can fit in comfortably and you can push comfortably I would bring it. It's easier than renting and usually less expensive.

 

[rkmassa]

We have an umbrella stroller too with no canopy. We bought an umbrella made for strollers at Wal-Mart that attaches to the stroller with a clamp and tightening thingy (pretty technical huh?). The umbrella can be taken off and the clamp left on for folding. It has a bendable arm, so you can adjust for sun position. We love it. Also used it on our double stroller in the front. It was older and had no sun canopy either.

 

[kimisabella]

All of the strollers you rent at any of the parks have a caonpy. When we were there last month I brought a stroller with me for my dd1 - but didn't realize that dd5 would want one also, so we ended up renting one every day for her. It was better in the long run, because they really can't walk for too long. If you don't have a canopy on your stroller, either get an umbrella or make sure they are wearing a hat. Strollers run about $8 a day, so it does add up!

 

[daisylove]

A canopy really is a must. Plus sunscreen even if they will be under the canopy. Remember the angles where the sun can get through. And if you are going in the summer a water mister or some sort of fan will also help. We have a small mister but also a fan that clips to the stroller.

 

[cepmom]

Thanks everybody, for all of your replies. I was originally thinking on renting a stroller in the parks, but then when I saw this umbrella stroller for only $5.00 all I could think of was how much money I would be able to save by bringing my own. It's to bad it does not have a canopy though. I really think a canopy would be necessary considering we'll be there in August. I have tried looking online for an attachment of some kind to provide some shade, but haven't had any luck, so unfortunatly I think I'll have to pass on this great deal. I'll continue to keep my eyes open...maybe I'll find something more suitable at a yard sale or something. Thanks again!!!

 

[marshmellow86]

strollers are a must in my opinion with little ones - too much walking - they get tired and grumpy and you can't cover as much territory as quickly. I actually found it is easier to maneuver them through the parks and crowds than having them walk. Plus, I use mine to help CARRY all the stuff we take - a cooler with drinks and snacks is a great bargin! I also pack rain gear (afternoon thunder storms in Fl) to avoid paying $6 for a poncho. Shade is good. . ..

 

[kay_key3]

I thought a little wagon would be better for my family. Do they allow those?

 

[dmaz]

Usually walmart or Kmart have ones that recline with a shade and a decent basket for around $20. It's still a considerable savings - plus you have a place for your stuff underneath.

 

[cepmom]

Just wanted to let you all know that I went to Target today and I was able to get a Chicco Caddy stroller for 50% off - the price ended up being $24.98. I had DD sit in and I "test drove" it around the store and I'm very pleased with the steering, handle length etc. It has a sun shade and it also came with a rain cover and a carry bag. I figure when I'm done with it, I can resell it and get some of my money back - it's still cheaper than renting one in the parks!! Again - thank you for all your suggestions!!