Why your “big kid” needs a stroller at Disney (and how to find one that’s big enough)

We’ve gone back and forth about the stroller all year long. Our 5yo is fully capable of walking (even more than us!) so de we really need a stroller?

Baby Jogger City Mini GT

Some kids love the stroller and some kids don’t. Our kiddo has been known to make the 20 min walk back to the hotel at 11pm after an evening at the parks. In fact, preferring to walk/run all the way back. So then, why a stroller when kids have more energy than they can possibly contain?

Here's Why

Kids are fickle, tiny little beings! Don’t let them trick you. The second you want them to load into the stroller they might protest. That’s okay, because the moment they change their mind and want it is just a matter of hours (or minutes) away. Those little bodies crash hard and when they crash, it comes fast. Having a stroller in tow means the pressure is off. Both the pressure of carrying a sleeping preschooler and the pressure to get back to the hotel before it’s too late. I’m not ashamed to admit we have been those parents leaving the parks at 11:30 with a blissfully sleeping kiddo in the stroller. That tyke is comfortable and peaceful. And then with much surprise, transfers to the hotel bed with ease to sleep the rest of the night. We’ve been known to let them sleep in there while we have a quick bite to eat in the hotel. Sleep is sleep right?

Also Why

Kids and Disney add up to be: a lot of stuff. Even a small stroller basket is a basket. A place to store items so that I'm not lugging a single extra item on my body. I can't express what a luxury that is. I also find the stroller to be a solid way to navigate overly crowded areas. Knowing that my kiddo is safe and snug while I focus on making my way through the crowd is extremely calming. It's too easy for a kiddo to get swept up in a crowd and quickly lost. Not to get overdramatic or anything... but there are those moments where, as a parent, I know we'll get through a sea of people more effectively when kiddo's tucked in.

Top Picks

So now that you know your kiddo needs a stroller for Disney, how do you find one that will fit them? We've had a surprisingly hard time finding one that will fit our preschooler. And we're not tall people or anything.

Luckily we've found two so far that have not only fit, but seem to be comfortable. Here are two that I'd recommend:

Baby Jogger City Mini

We've got an old version of this stroller (obtained as a very generous hand-me-down) so I'm not sure how it compares to the size of the current version. However, from what I can see, the sizing is really comparable.

Baby Jogger City Mini (older version that we have)

What I like: The kid fits! Even in the reclined position, there's room enough to get cozy and actually sleep/rest. The wheels are durable and the ride is cushioned and smooth.

It has a GENEROUS canopy with a peekaboo window. Why don't all strollers have a huge canopy???

What I don't like: Not a one-handed steer. Definitely needs both hands to feel in control.

When folded (though VERY easy to fold) it doesn't stand on its own. Not a deal breaker by any means.

Though I'm not tall, somehow I manage to kick the support bar/axel under the stroller when I walk sometimes.

Smallish basket

Pro tip: These are super easy to find second-hand. Ebay seems to be a really solid way to search and purchase. These strollers are NOT cheap, so I'd go the used route if possible.

Runner Up Summer Infant 3Dlite+

This is an "umbrella" style stroller so it's not going to fold small. However, it's roomy and comfortable so that gets it a very honorable mention.

Summer Infant 3Dlite+

Pros: The kid fits! Comfortably. Even in the reclined position. Decent sized basket Solid canopy/sun shade

Quick and easy to "un-recline"

Affordable

Cons: Rather large when folded

Definitely a two hand push (as it has two handles, not one)

Kinda on the cheaper-feeling side (though with that comes a decent price point)

Not a plush ride

And that’s that. Stop second guessing the decision. Bring that stroller for your 5, 6, (etc.) year old and enjoy the comfort it brings to everyone in the travel party.