Tips about Health, Planning and Souvenirs

If you have the least problem getting around, get an ECV. Don't let pride keep you from having a wonderful time at Walt Disney World. I just returned and it was so easy to get around. I was solo and everyone was very kind to help me. Transportation and attractions are easy to navigate. - Ruby Ramey

If you're like me, you might collect a Christmas tree bauble (or two) from the World each time you visit -- perhaps with a year on to commemorate a trip. Trouble is, we now have too many for our Christmas tree to easily support! As an alternative, I got some cheap curtain rods -- the telescoping sort -- wrapped them in tinsel, and mounted them along wall shelves, then suspended the baubles from them. It spreads the Disney all around the room, and hey, there's room for lots more! - Matthew

I love to help families plan their first trip to Walt Disney World. I have three tips they must follow, although I have plenty more. #1. Plan one year in advance to maximize savings. #2. Begin to exercise (walking) as a family, at least 3 to 4 months in advance. I tell them they might walk five-plus miles a day on concrete. #3. Set your expectations realistically. You can't do everything Disney has to offer, it's just too big. If you have low expectations and you meet them, it's a Magical day. High expectations will make it a Tragical day. - Alan R. Malesky

In a recent newsletter a reader asked where to find Disney apparel in larger sizes. I have had REALLY good luck at the gift shop in the Beach Club Resort. It's worth a special trip or visit the shop while having a great meal at Cape May Cafe. - Debbie Wilk

For those of you with strollers, wheelchairs or ECVs, be sure to keep any food items you may have stowed in the storage compartments or baskets well-sealed. I recently noticed several opportunistic squirrels having a nice picnic lunch after they'd raided a bag of snacks that had been left open and stored in the bottom of a stroller while the family was off riding an attraction! - Editor Deb Koma

The My Disney Experience app now can show you where the pressed penny machines are located. Launch the app, click on the magnifying glass at the top to search. Type in: coin press. The map will now show you all the coin press machines in Walt Disney World. - Jean

We've run a tip about distilled water before, but Albert G reminds us: Before my last trip in December 2016 I looked everywhere to find out where I could purchase distilled water for my CPAP machine without going offsite. We used the Magical Express and didn't have a car. Taxi cab and Garden Grocer seemed a little expensive for a gallon of water. Even the Disney Mom's Panel said that there is nowhere onsite to purchase distilled water. I decided to ask a cast member at Pop Century and found that they indeed do stock distilled water by the gallon, it's just not out on the shelves. You have to ask and they will be more than happy to get it from the back, and the cost isn't bad. I got sick on my previous trip without water in my machine. I'm not sure if all the resorts sell it, but it's worth asking for.

We've run a tip about distilled water before, but Albert G reminds us: Before my last trip in December 2016 I looked everywhere to find out where I could purchase distilled water for my CPAP machine without going offsite. We used the Magical Express and didn't have a car. Taxi cab and Garden Grocer seemed a little expensive for a gallon of water. Even the Disney Mom's Panel said that there is nowhere onsite to purchase distilled water. I decided to ask a cast member at Pop Century and found that they indeed do stock distilled water by the gallon, it's just not out on the shelves. You have to ask and they will be more than happy to get it from the back, and the cost isn't bad. I got sick on my previous trip without water in my machine. I'm not sure if all the resorts sell it, but it's worth asking for.

ECVs aren't just for the disabled. Some seniors are stronger than youngsters, but a lot of us tire with a lot of walking. Don't be embarrassed to get an ECV, you will enjoy WDW so much more. Rent one from a private company that will bring it right to your hotel and you will be sure to have one. WDW transportation is easy to manage. If you want to drive your own car to WDW, you can get a portable ECV that comes apart for easy transport in your car. After my first visit as a senior without an ECV, I will never again be without one. - Ruby

If a member of your party uses an ECV at Epcot, you may find it helpful to know that there is a HUGE area next to Club Cool where ECVs can be recharged in air-conditioned comfort while you enjoy a drink from Club Cool or a drink or snack from Starbucks on the other side of Club Cool. Tables and chairs throughout the room let you spread out and there are restroom facilities within this area. This space was a lifesaver for us as our ECV batteries were perilously low! - Colleen Ezzell

We are Annual Passholders and frequent the parks at least weekly. Unfortunately, I was hit with a breast cancer diagnosis and with surgery, chemo and radiation. I thought the days at the park with my kids would be over. One day, I went into the First Aid Station and asked if I could just sit quietly in the lobby to rest since it was quiet and air-conditioned. They showed me to the back where they have semi-private areas where I could lay down and rest and then return to the park and enjoy my day with my family. It's a wonderful bonus for anyone who needs that little bit of rest due to an illness or condition, and it helps you get through the day. - Michelle C.

To keep cool and hydrated on those very hot days in Disney, my daughter had the idea that each of us should bring to the parks a pint-sized bottle (with a wide opening) filled with ice and wrapped in a washcloth to insulate it. This serves two purposes. You have very cold water to drink as the ice melts, and when you get really hot, you can put the bottle and damp washcloth on your forehead or on the back of your neck to cool you off. When the ice is gone, just refill the bottles at any quick serve restaurant or water fountain. - Julia Liucci

I have read several tips about using water mister fans in the parks, but my family has found a way to cool off that we think works just as well with the added benefits of being cheaper and more convenient. We use the small (about 4" tall) pump-type bottles one can usually find in the "travel and trial size" section at the grocery store or pharmacy. The bottles are inexpensive ($1-$2) so it is not a big deal if one is lost (as happened to me on Tom Sawyer Island) and require no batteries. They are very lightweight, just a couple of ounces even when filled with water, and small enough to fit into a pocket. One or two quick spritzes on the face, back of the neck, arms and legs is all it takes to make even the hottest day enjoyable. To make it even better, the bottles can be used for other things after vacation is over, which really can't be said about the mister fans. - K.

I have read several tips about using water mister fans in the parks, but my family has found a way to cool off that we think works just as well with the added benefits of being cheaper and more convenient. We use the small (about 4" tall) pump-type bottles one can usually find in the "travel and trial size" section at the grocery store or pharmacy. The bottles are inexpensive ($1-$2) so it is not a big deal if one is lost (as happened to me on Tom Sawyer Island) and require no batteries. They are very lightweight, just a couple of ounces even when filled with water, and small enough to fit into a pocket. One or two quick spritzes on the face, back of the neck, arms and legs is all it takes to make even the hottest day enjoyable. To make it even better, the bottles can be used for other things after vacation is over, which really can't be said about the mister fans. - K.

When traveling by air with a wheelchair, whether it is a manual or power chair, always take a photo of it from all sides beforehand, and protect your equipment as best you can. On a power wheelchair, remember to take your cushion and the control. I forgot one time and discovered that my joystick control was damaged when they brought my chair to me. - Matt Harbin