[lil'pocahontas]

There has been some discussion as of late that Caver and I should take the kids to WDW for vacation this year. A wonderful idea. A recently purchased pop-up camper has been added to the equation. Which would extend the trip by an extra week. Yeah, more time for the parks. If our family scheduled a trip for January 2006, the children would be 5,3 and 21 months. Am I the only one who thinks this is insane?

Is there really anyone else out there who has taken a preschooler and two toddlers on an extended trip to WDW? Camping for two weeks, to boot? I would love to hear the good, the bad and the ugly.

[Erin]

Pocohontas - I personally think I would be very close to miserable camping for 2 weeks with three little kids.

(Sorry Caver)

Go ahead and shoot me now.

The idea of 2 weeks in Disney with 3 small children is great - you could be more laid back and relaxed with your little people...but, going back to the camper for an afternoon nap? Is it actually gonna work? I think it would work with one kid...or older kids...

Maybe you are used to camping with children, and so it wouldn't be a big deal. I've never camped with the kids...so, the idea scares me!

[lovemysons]

We were avid campers when we were younger, and child-less. We did however bring along our nephew many times, and, our dogs. We tented and then purchased a small trailer. The trailer was much nicer than tenting! Lots of conveniences, and also, a haven for those rainy days. I think as the kids get older, they are easier to take on extended trips. As far as 2 weeks in Disney, I am with Erin on that one. Its a great idea, because it allows you to take your time, not get so caught up in everything having to be squeezed in.

[lil'pocahontas]

We haven't camped a whole lot. At this point, I usually say that I would be willing to take any ONE of the kids, but not all three.

[lovemysons]

Originally Posted by lil'pocahontas

We haven't camped a whole lot. At this point, I usually say that I would be willing to take any ONE of the kids, but not all three.

Spoken like a true mommy.

[Erin]

I think the only way to know if it is worth it, is to take them camping a few times locally, and see how it works out.

It may not be a problem for your little guys (and girl!) - if it goes smoothly a few times, and they get the hang of how it works - then why not go for two weeks at WDW. There is TONS of stuff to do at the campsite alone. You could really make a nice relaxing vacation out of it - using the theme parks as background...try to hit each park twice in two weeks...should be doable - and at a toddler pace.

But first, you must see if they dig the camper!

[lil'pocahontas]

Originally Posted by Erin

and at a toddler pace.

Ahh! Remember, Caver is a Park Commando!

Oh! And we're camping Memorial Day weekend. 3 nights, 2 1/2 days.

[Erin]

ROFL! I just noticed your signature - I see he gets his funny sense of humor from YOU :c)


And, if he wants to go to WDW for 2 weeks with 3 kids and stay in a camper, then he's just gonna have to make some sacrifices, isn't he?

You need to tell him if it's gonna happen - then NO COMMANDO!

:c)

[Erin]

well, that will be great practice. I'm anxious to see how it goes for you guys!

I hope it works out!

The camper is just too cool, btw. We've been talking about getting one, too. OUr friends have a 12 foot popup, and it's so nice! Once it's popped up and everything - it's actually pretty big!

[cinderbella]

Give me air-conditioning, running water and electricity any day before you'd catch me camping for two weeks with three kids.......
However, I am vain. And I need the luxuries.
SO my saying this should in no way effect your decision!

I remember from cave man's trip report there was some misery to be had on the later part of your trip (kids getting sick--am I right?)...maybe just plan for a week....with the option to add days if it seems to be working out for you?

Ohh!! and welcome to DC.....we're all so happy to meet the woman behind the cave!!! What a woman you must be! teehee!!

[pumouse]

I HATE camping!! With kids, without kids, with dogs, without dogs, in a tent, in a camper, I hate it! I know some people love it, and I totally respect that, but I hate it. Oh did I mention that I hate camping!

[lil'pocahontas]

Originally Posted by cinderbella

Give me air-conditioning, running water and electricity any day before you'd catch me camping for two weeks with three kids.......
However, I am vain. And I need the luxuries.
SO my saying this should in no way effect your decision!

Yeah, I want the luxuries too. Which concerns me. Generally speaking, I can buck up for the short term, but I don't want to turn into a crank at some point, making everyone else miserable.

[pumouse]

Originally Posted by lil'pocahontas

Yeah, I want the luxuries too. Which concerns me. Generally speaking, I can buck up for the short term, but I don't want to turn into a crank at some point, making everyone else miserable.

You say that like it's a bad thing!!

[DisneyTeacher]

Originally Posted by pumouse

I HATE camping!! With kids, without kids, with dogs, without dogs, in a tent, in a camper, I hate it! I know some people love it, and I totally respect that, but I hate it. Oh did I mention that I hate camping!

I could have written that exact same post. I think I HATE camping as much as you do. My DS and DH will go on over nights at a camp ground near us and it's all I can do to pop over and admire the camp fire for an hour or so at night.

[pumouse]

I am glad to see I am the only one who is not a nature girl!