The First-Time ECV Guide to Walt Disney World

Before you go: practice before your first park day

If you have never driven an ECV, spend a few minutes practicing before you head into a busy Disney park. Your first few minutes should be about getting comfortable, not getting somewhere quickly.

• Starting and stopping smoothly
• Making tight turns and backing up
• Driving through doorways
• Maneuvering around people
• Using the controls comfortably
• Understanding how quickly the scooter stops

Not all ECVs are the same. Consider your weight and the scooter's weight capacity, seat comfort, scooter size, turning radius, battery range, basket or storage, and how easily you will transport it. A comfortable scooter makes a huge difference during a long Disney day.

Getting around your resort

Your ECV is not just for the theme parks. You can use it to navigate your resort, including accessible routes, common areas and transportation locations.

• Slow down around doorways and watch for pedestrians
• Do not block entrances or walkways
• Give yourself extra time
• Remember that people may not always realize you are approaching behind them

Disney transportation

One of the biggest concerns for first-time ECV users is how to get around Disney with the scooter. Disney transportation is designed with accessibility in mind, but procedures vary by transportation type.

Disney buses

ECVs can generally be accommodated on Disney buses using the vehicle's accessibility procedures. A Cast Member will direct you where to go and explain what you need to do. Just tell the Cast Member that you are using an ECV and follow their instructions.

Disney Skyliner

The Skyliner can accommodate guests using mobility devices, with accessible boarding procedures. Allow yourself a little extra time and follow Cast Member instructions. If you are nervous about your first Skyliner trip, let them know — they are there to help.

Disney monorail

The monorail is another accessible transportation option. Procedures can vary depending on the station and circumstances, so follow Cast Member instructions.

Disney boats

Accessibility procedures vary depending on the specific boat, dock and conditions. Ask a Cast Member before boarding if you are unsure whether your particular ECV can be accommodated.

At the theme parks

Give yourself more time than you think

Disney parks are large and you will travel farther than you realize. Do not plan your day assuming everything will happen exactly on schedule. Build in extra time for transportation, crowds, meals, attractions and rest. An ECV is not just about getting from Point A to Point B — it is about conserving your energy so you can enjoy the day.

Drive like everyone else is not looking

Pedestrians can be unpredictable. Children can suddenly run into your path, people may stop in front of you without warning, and some guests simply will not notice that you are behind them. Your best strategy is to slow down, leave plenty of stopping distance, take wider turns, watch your surroundings, and never assume people see you.

Be careful with turns

Your ECV may require more room to turn than you expect. Practice turning before you arrive, especially if you are using a larger model. Pay particular attention when entering restaurants, going through narrow doorways, maneuvering around tables, turning near crowds or backing out of spaces. When in doubt, slow down and give yourself more room.

Attractions and rides

There is not one procedure for every attraction. Depending on the ride, you may be able to remain in your ECV, transfer to a wheelchair, transfer from your ECV to the attraction, or leave your ECV in a designated area. Always ask a Cast Member about the current procedure for the attraction you are visiting. Do not assume every ride works the same way.

If you need to leave your ECV before entering an attraction, pay attention to where you leave it. Take a quick photo of the location if necessary. Large Disney parks can have many similar-looking areas, and after a long ride or meal it can be surprisingly easy to forget exactly where you parked.

Battery and charging

Start every day fully charged. A Disney park day can involve a tremendous amount of driving, and your actual battery range can vary depending on the scooter, rider weight, terrain, temperature and how the scooter is used. Do not wait until the battery is nearly empty before thinking about charging.

• Plug in the charger every night
• Confirm the scooter is charging
• Let it charge fully
• Check the scooter before leaving in the morning

First-time ECV mistakes to avoid

• Trying to drive too fast — you do not need to keep up with pedestrians
• Waiting until you are exhausted — an ECV helps conserve your energy throughout the day
• Not practicing beforehand — five or ten minutes of practice can make a huge difference
• Forgetting to charge — make charging part of your nightly routine
• Assuming pedestrians see you — they often do not
• Being embarrassed — you are using a mobility device so you can enjoy your vacation
• Trying to figure everything out yourself — when you are unsure, ask a Cast Member

Make your Disney trip easier

The first hour may feel strange. You may be thinking about every turn, every person around you and every transportation stop. Then something happens: you stop thinking about the scooter and start enjoying Disney. That is exactly what you want. An ECV should give you more freedom, not more stress.

If you are planning to use an ECV at Walt Disney World, consider arranging your mobility equipment before you arrive. Mobility Rentals Florida provides ECV rentals for visitors to the Orlando area, with convenient hotel delivery options.

1. Choose your ECV
2. Reserve your dates
3. Arrange delivery
4. Arrive ready to enjoy Disney

Disney transportation, accessibility and attraction procedures can change. Always follow current instructions from Disney Cast Members and posted accessibility information during your visit.