Baby It's Cold Outside

I really can't stay

(But baby it's cold outside)

I've got to go away

(But baby it's cold outside)...

It's absolutely FRIGID outside!  The temperatures have dipped quite low all over the country for the past couple of weeks.  I mean, here I am, curled up in multiple blankets with it sleeting outside and it got me to thinking...what should you really do when going to the parks in the wintry season.  

I've been down in the state of Florida for two of the coldest times of recent record, once this past week where I was in Key West,which saw temperatures in the 50s and 60s, which is quite cold for them down there, and one this past January, when it got so chilly that it actually snowed for a brief time period.  So yes....the heater does occasionally get turned off down in the Sunshine State.

And trust me, it can be quite difficult to navigate the parks when it's this chilly out.

My first piece of advice is the most obvious...bundle up in layers...especially if you aren't going to be returning back to your hotel before night sets in.  The layers will keep you warmer and if you do end up getting too warm at any point, you can just take a layer off and put it in a bag.  Then when it does get cold again to you, you can quickly remedy it.  Me personally, I'm a big fan of wearing a hoodie on top of my many layers.  That way I don't need to wear a big, bulky coat, but I am still mostly protected from the cold. 

I also strongly suggest bringing scarves and gloves.  (And maybe a hat too, if you are so inclined).  Trust me on this one!  Having these items with you is so crucial because there is nothing worse than being down there and realizing you really do want those items and then having to pay Disney prices for something that you already have.  (Unless, of course, you want to bring those items back as a souvenir too!)

Something else I like to suggest, if you can, is to try to bring those hand warmers that you shake up and then can wear in your gloves or other places.  These things are amazing!  I think they are the best invention ever!  These helped me on a particularly cold Wishes Fireworks cruise a few years back.  They were such lifesavers!!!

Also, for those of you with kids, especially of the younger set, try to bring a little fleece blanket with you to keep them warm.  You can bundle them up when they are in a stroller and keep them content.  Also, this way they (or even you) can try to cuddle up in it while you're waiting for a parade or a fireworks show.  Or you can buy one of the new Disney Snuggies they are selling in the parks!

The best thing about the parks when it's biting out there is that you can really manage most aspects without being forced into the elements for too terribly long.  As many of you know, the parks are a good place to go when it's raining because there are quite a few things to do that are indoor activities. The same thing can be said when the cooler temperatures reign, since many people opt to stay away from the parks.  So it's your opportunity to experience the parks with minimal crowds. 

The worst thing though when it's this cold out is when night fall sets.  During the day, things can be more bearable because the sun is usually beating down on you, warming your body.  But once night falls and that sun disappears, the temps drop rapidly, so it can be hard to stay motivated to remain in the parks.  (Last January, I actually did leave the parks early one night because I couldn't take the cold!  It was hard to do, but I was so miserable.)

One tip is to make an later evening table service dining reservation for you to take advantage of.  This is a nice option because you are still in the parks, but you aren't outside winding your way through the nippy atmosphere.  Plus, since sitting down for a meal takes up at least an hour or so, it will keep you inside for a good portion of the evening when the temps dip lower. 

My last tip is if you just can't stand being outside in the elements when it's this cold, I suggest heading over to the Wilderness Lodge and sitting by the big fireplace, just soaking up the atmosphere.  This resort just screams a homey feeling and there is nothing better than sitting in this spot in the arctic temps. 

So what are you winter weather survival tips down at WDW?  What thing did I miss that is so absolutely obvious that would help others out as they navigate the frosty conditions?  Make sure to let me know in the comments section.

No matter where you are though, make sure to stay warm with these freezing temps.  Try your best to stay bundled up and if you can, sit by a nice roaring fire with some hot cocoa. Oh and if you can't be in WDW, at least dream that you're there.  Because, let's face it...a cold day in WDW is still better than a cold day at home!

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