If you have small children, taking a Disney stroller to Walt Disney World is a must. And while most of the time, strolling around the theme parks is seamless, there are some do’s and don’ts to really pay attention to. From decorating and customizing your stroller to the rules for a Disney stroller size to keeping your items safe when you walk away, here are 6 important things NOT to do and the Disney stroller rules.
Disney Stroller Rules – 6 Rules Not to Avoid
I remember the days of walking through the Walt Disney World theme parks (Magic Kingdom, in particular) and seeing massive strollers that looked like Cinderella pumpkin carriages, most of the time with a Disney princess inside having the best day ever. But, since 2019, an instituted Disney stroller policy has been put in place for both safety and space.
And while I miss seeing them (and secretly wished they had them for adults because they were so beautiful and I’d love to be strolled around in one for fun – would go perfect with my Cinderella character couture makeover – check out the YouTube video below!), I can totally understand the big Disney stroller ban along with the new Disney stroller rules with the massive amount of guests in the parks.
While the large, themed strollers were super fun, there is finite space within the theme parks. Add in the fact that many times you’ll be taking your stroller into an attraction queue with lots of switchbacks and there just isn’t enough room to move and turn with the larger strollers.
Disney Stroller Rules – Don’t Forget to Check Your Disney Stroller Size Before You Visit
Walt Disney World Parks have a strict policy when it comes to Disney stroller rules. While only a couple of years ago much larger strollers were allowed in the parks, these days the maximum size is 31” (79cm) wide and 52” (132cm) long or smaller.
So, what strollers are not allowed at Disney?
Keep in mind wagons (think Radio Flyer style) or any stroller that doesn’t meet the size requirements are not allowed in the Disney World parks, either.
How does Disney check stroller size? Great question? The theme parks actually have blocks painted on the ground outside and and in the parks with the exact measurements for strollers. If yours is in question, you’ll be asked to park your stroller in the block to check.
Are double strollers allowed at Disney? Yep!
As for Disney double stroller rules, the same maximum size still applies for size. Sure, double strollers allowed at Disney World can still be roomy enough for two children, but if a stroller looks oversized, a Disney castmember will definitely ask to check.
Do this instead: To save the hassle of having to stop and get yours measured to make sure you’re in line with the Disney stroller rules and sizes, if you’re bringing your own stroller to Disney, always double check the size before you order one. If you already have one, check the size in advance to give to time to find one that will work if yours is too large.
Disney Stroller Rules – Don’t Forget to Add a Personalized Tag to Your Stroller
Even on low crowd level park days, the Disney stroller parking areas can get pretty congested and full (especially on high crowd level days). Add in the fact that Disney castmembers may move strollers around at their discretion, and you may find yourself in a sea of strollers that look very similar.
To help find your stroller easily, make a cute tag with your last name on it and add it to the handle. It doesn’t have to be anything super fancy, although you can feel free to go all out if you’d like, but it should be memorable to you and your traveling party. I’ve seen colored paper with guests’ last names tied to the handle.
If you want a sturdier one, consider laminating the name tag and punching holes in it to tie on. And if you don’t want to go that route, tie a bright ribbon or even a Disney balloon on your stroller handle to help you find it quickly. I, personally, just wouldn’t tie any type of Disney souvenirs to the stroller – better safe than lost to another guest.
Lastly, and for a super affordable option, ask for a celebration button or two (one of the best free things at Disney World!) and add it onto your stroller. You can ask it to be customized by a castmember as well.
Disney Stroller Rules – Don’t Leave Your Purse or Wallet in Your Disney Stroller
We all tend to do our own thing as guests in Disney parks, but you never want to leave your purse, wallet, or valuables in your stroller while on a ride or attraction. I’m not trying to be Debbie Downer, but you always want to be cautious. For me, this is one of the most important Disney stroller rules you can follow.
Do this instead: Keep a small bag that you can quickly grab to take with you that holds all of your personal items, preferably one with a comfortable strap. This way, you know your valuables will be safe while you’re away from the stroller and won’t have to worry about them being there when you return.
Disney Stroller Rules – Don’t Park Your Disney Stroller in the Wrong Place – It Will Probably Get Moved
I get it: you want to pack in as much as possible during your Disney park day. But parking your stroller just anywhere to save time if you’re running for a ride may end up costing you time in the long run. Disney castmembers have the right to move your stroller to approved stroller parking areas, so when you go to look for your stroller, you’ll probably find it somewhere else. Also to note: some stroller parking areas may not be super close to a ride or attraction (for example, Haunted Mansion‘s stroller parking is on the other side of the walkway to the queue), so always double check if you’re not sure.
If this does happen to you, and you’re unable to find your stroller after you’ve hunted for it, look for the closest member of the Disney staff and let them know what happened and exactly where you left it. This. way, they can help you narrow it down.
Additionally, even in the proper stroller parking areas, I’ve seen castmembers move strollers around to make more room for other guests to park theirs. So, even if you parked it in the proper place, it may not be exactly where you left it.
Do this instead: So, what exactly do you do with strollers at Disney World when you’re not sure where to park them? Ask a castmember where you need to park your stroller ahead of time and leave it there.
Disney Stroller Rules – Don’t Leave Food Out for the Animals
While guests should be honest and leave your stroller alone, the same doesn’t ring true for animals in the parks. I couldn’t count the amount of times I’ve seen squirrels digging around strollers for Disney World and grabbing a snack while folks were busy having fun on a ride that even the kids can ride with ease.
Additionally, Disney castmembers do try their best to keep the animals at bay, but they’re pretty clever. And to give them credit, they really do try their best to keep them out and away from guest items.
Do this instead: Make sure your food, snacks, and drinks are well protected in containers that can’t be breeched.
Disney Stroller Rules – Don’t Forget to Check Prices on a Disney Stroller Rental Before You Do
When planning a Walt Disney World visit, you’ll be happy to know that you can rent Disney strollers in all 4 theme parks and Disney Springs. You’re also able to purchase a length of stay Disney stroller rental to save off the daily price. So, if you’re not going to bring your own stroller, renting is the next best thing.
Do this instead: Before you go, check for third party Disney stroller rentals and compare prices. ScooterBug stroller rental: Walt Disney World is a good bet, has a really good rental record, and will deliver straight to your Disney World Resort. Additionally, if you need to rent a third-party ECV, electric scooter, or even a wheelchair, the company can do all of them at once.
For ScooterBug, the Disney stroller rental cost varies depending on how many days you’ll need one, so the best idea is to hop on. the website and do so math. In general, though, you’re looking at anywhere from $12 per day for a single to as high as $90 per day for a one-day double stroller rental. Again, if you have any questions about the Disney stroller rules and their rentals, go ahead and ask for peace of mind.
If you’re not seeing anything you like at ScooterBug, Magic Strollers rentals is another reputable place to rent strollers.
Lastly, if you need more help with Disney stroller rules, check out the official Walt Disney World Parks stroller policy frequently asked questions page.
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