A trip to Orlando is a rite of passage for many families. The theme park mecca of the world is the perfect destination for a family vacation. With an abundance of theme parks, water parks, and other entertainment options, children of all ages can appreciate the magic of this area. Before you take off on your Orlando vacation, be sure to keep these family-friendly traveling tips in mind:

Schedule rest breaks.

When hitting the theme parks for the day, it is imperative that you schedule in regular rest breaks. Unless your children are teenagers, they will not be able to withstand a full day in the parks without adequate downtime. Choosing lodging accommodations that are close to the theme parks will enable you to go back and nap or swim during the heat of the day so that you can recharge and head back to the parks in the evening. You can also choose to schedule an entire rest day during the middle of your trip.

Tips for an Orlando Vacation with Kids

Pack for a variety of weather conditions.

While it enjoys a moderate climate overall, the weather in Orlando can turn on a dime. In order to be adequately prepared, you need to pack for a variety of conditions. During the summer, it is common for heavy rain to move in during the afternoon before clearing out during the evening hours. Packing a rain poncho will help you to forge ahead. Hoodies and jackets are a must during the fall and winter months while sunscreen is a necessity all year long. Packing or planning to pick up all of these essentials will keep your children comfortable for all of your touring.

Article originally written on May 2, 2014. Updated on Aug 14, 2019.

Choose your accommodations wisely.

Keeping your children in mind when choosing your lodging accommodations will ensure the best ever Orlando vacation. Orlando is flush with an abundance of vacation rental homes that make the ideal place to call home while out on your adventure. When traveling with children, you are going to appreciate having plenty of space to spread out. A rental home or condo will also provide a kitchen so that you can save money on eating out costs. It is also nice to have a separate place to relax for the adults while the kids nap or sleep at night.
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Be ready for the heat.

When kids are uncomfortable they make their parents uncomfortable. One of the main reasons Orlando is the number one family vacation destination in the world is its beautiful, year-round sunny climate, but that means it can be pretty hot sometimes too. When visiting Orlando with kids, pack appropriately, bring sunscreen, make sure the kids are dressed for a day in the sun and set aside time to cool off in the pool.

Ask for special accommodations ahead of time.

Each family with children has specific needs. Maybe it’s a crib, stroller or high chair. Maybe it’s a few floaties for the pool, or an outdoor grill for family barbecue day. Contact your vacation rental company ahead of time, so that everything you need can be ready and waiting when your family arrives.

Bring some comforts of home.

If this is your first vacation with young children, it could be a bit daunting for your little ones to be in an unfamiliar environment. Remember to bring a favorite blanket, toy or teddy bear when visiting Orlando with kids, it may help them relax. Their preferred snacks also help when the kids are picky eaters!

Plan your meals.

Do plenty of research to find family friendly dining options close to where you are staying. If you’re staying in a vacation rental, make use of the full-size kitchen by purchasing groceries when you arrive. This allows you to prepare meals your family is accustomed to, and it will keep your children happy and healthy. There are several great grocers in the area. And in case you didn’t know, we can do the shopping for you.

Remember date night.

Just because you’re on vacation with the kids, doesn’t mean you can’t add a little romance. This is one of the benefits to staying in a vacation rental. Once you put the kids to bed, you can relax with a bottle of wine, some chocolate and grapes in your private pool or spa, in complete privacy. Many vacation rentals also feature en-suite bathrooms with large, jetted tubs.