What time to leave?

[FreeTime]

We will have two vehicles, 12 people. It usually takes my family of 4 12.5 - 14 hours to get to WDW. Map Quests says 16 hours. So, using the 16 hours since we will likely need more stops, I am trying to decide when she would leave? Originally I was thinking 5am, but then we wouldn't arrive until 9PM. So, would you risk leaving at midnight to get there in the afternoon of the same day? This would give us less traffic, pool time, etc. We would leave on a Sunday so have an entire rest day before heading out.
Thanks

 

[Donna M]

If it has taken you 14 hours in the past why are you planning 16 now, you are able to do it in 14.

Only you know whether to leave at midnight. That's something we could never do. My DH would fall asleep at the wheel and the last time I tried driving when I was really tired, I saw a monster!

We have left at 4 am though after a good sleep, and that went well.

 

[sam_gordon]

This is assuming you want to do it all in one stretch and not stop for the night somewhere...

I would leave 5-6am. Assuming the 16 hours holds true, that puts you in ~9-10pm. Check in, get a good night's sleep and hit the parks.

I would NOT leave at midnight b/c I couldn't trust myself to stay awake. Driving to me is so monotonous, I can 'zone out'... especially if I'm tired.

Also, even if you leave at midnight and arrive in the afternoon, I would think anyone who's not able to sleep in the car would be so wiped out all you'd do is get in the room and nap... now throwing your sleep schedule out of whack.

Just my opinion.

 

[shame711]

In my experience it always takes longer when you have two or more vehicles. You have to adjust for the other persons driving style always trying to figure out where they are on the road and you will need to take more rest stops. I would add one hour for every ten it takes for one car.

 

[garris3404]

There are many factors to consider. What day of the week? Will you hit big city traffic during rush hour (morning/afternoon)? How many drivers you have for each vehicle? And it will take longer to travel with 12 people in 2 vehicles!

Maybe splitting the difference might be a good compromise (leaving around 3 AM)? Could stop for a good breakfast and rest? Then stop later for lunch and rest? You will need the rest and people will ned to stretch their legs and have a little space. Too many people in a small area can lead to . That way you will be there earlier and can relax and get properly prepared to attack the parks the next day.