Do I Need to Bring a Pushchair or Buggy?
If you’re planning a family trip to Walt Disney World, one of the most common questions I hear from my friends is:
“Why are you still taking a buggy – he’s been walking since age 1 and hasn’t been in a buggy for 5 years!”
And
“Do I really need to bring a pushchair or buggy for my child, even if they’re a bit older?”
The short answer: Yes — and here’s why (and if you don’t you’ll possibly regret it)
Please trust me when I say theres no tired like Disney tired! No matter how many years you’ve been without one at home please give some thought to taking one to Orlando
A little heads-up: Some links on this page are affiliate links. That means if you click through and buy, I might earn a small commission — at absolutly no extra cost to you. I only share products and services I have bought and used myself and truly think will make your family trip to Disney even more magical! ✨
Why a Buggy Is Useful — Even for Older Kids
Even children up to 7 or 8 years old can benefit from a buggy, especially during late-night events or long park days. Walt Disney World is huge, and even the most energetic little ones will feel it after hours of walking, waiting in lines, and running between attractions.
A buggy isn’t just for toddlers — it’s a lifesaver for keeping your slightly older children comfortable, your arms free, and your family moving without meltdowns.
💡 Tip: Use it as a “late-night escape” tool — even if your child walks most of the day(like mine did around 6, 7 years old) the buggy can make evenings much smoother.
Airlines and Pushchairs
Good news: most airlines allow you to take pushchairs or buggies for free, either:
- Folded and checked at the gate
- Checked in with your luggage (you usually just get a tag and pop it down to oversize luggage)
- Be sure to check your airlines rules – a bag to put it in really helps keep it safe
This means you can bring your own lightweight buggy without worrying about extra fees — a huge money saver compared to hiring one at the resort every day.
Choosing the Right Buggy/Pushchair
When selecting a buggy for Disney, consider:
- Lightweight & easy to fold — perfect for Disney buses and transportation, which require you to fold your buggy before boarding.
- Compact size — avoids taking up too much space on the monorail or in crowded areas and when back in your hotel room
- Storage basket or bags — helpful for snacks, water, or ponchos
- Comfortable seat & large sunshade — your child may nap during long park days
Avoid bringing a full travel system unless you really need it — large strollers are harder to fold and maneuver, especially on Disney buses.
My personal favourite is the Baby Jogger City Mini (single or double depending on what you need). They tick all the boxes, easy to fold, fold fairly flat, large seat and super shady hood. Its an absolute work horse and ours has lasted 14 years before I then passed it on for many more years work!
Think about accessories
Over the years I have travelled many times with pushchairs for the boys. Bringing the right accessories is key to rolling around in style!
- A clip on rechargeable fan – theres nothing nicer than a lovely constant breeze in the hot weather, a rechargeable fan is ideal for keeping little ones cool
- Big buggy clips – These are ideal for clipping al sorts easily onto the buggy – which may include bags or water bottles
- A buggy organiser – These are great for keeping organised whilst walking around – snacks or drinks can be kept inside or anything else you want to keep close at hand.
- Water bottle insulated carriers – These are great for keeping organised whilst walking around without the buggy or you can sling it on the handle when you want to. Put a frozen bottle of water inside in the morning to slow down sipping and keep it cool.
- Rain cover – Even if it doesn’t look like rain – cover your buggy! Believe me when I say one minute its blue skys the next its torrential! IF you leave the buggy parked anywhere and theres a cloud in the sky make sure you leave it covered unless you want to come back to a soggy botom!
Hiring a Buggy at Walt Disney World
If you prefer not to bring your own, there’s always the option to hire a buggy on-site:
- Daily rentals are available at all four theme parks – but cost quite a lot
- Great if you want to travel light on the plane
- Prices are reasonable, but you’ll need to rent a buggy for each park day (and they don’t go past the main gate)
⚠️ Note: Disney rental buggies are standard single or double buggies, low to the ground and only allowed in the park — if you want a specific type (lightweight, travel system style, or your own brand), bringing your own is better.
Transportation Tips at Disney
- Buses: You must fold your buggy when boarding, so an easy-fold option is essential
- Monorail: Folding isn’t always required, but it can make things easier during peak times
- Skyliner: You don’t have to fold the a single buggy before boarding but if its a busy time then its polite to do so to make space for other passengers
💡 Pro tip: Practice folding and unfolding your buggy quickly — you’ll save time and stress when hopping between parks or transport.
💡 Pro tip: Bring extra bags to throw all those lose articles in from under the buggy before you fold it!
Final Thoughts
Even if your child is walking well on their own, a buggy is an invaluable tool at Walt Disney World. It can save tired feet, keep spirits high during late nights, and give you peace of mind during long park days.
Whether you bring your own lightweight buggy or hire one on-site, having that extra set of wheels can make a world of difference for your magical family trip.
