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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Holiday of a lifetime woes

61 replies

Beachesandcream · 28/07/2025 11:40

I know I am probably being unreasonable but think it’s a mixture of nerves and self confidence. We are booked to go a wonderful much wished for holiday to Disneyworld for the first time. I had great plans of getting fitter and loosing weight before we went but due to a number of things this has not gone to plan. I am definitely fitter than I was - regular swimming and walking has helped ( I have a long term health condition which can limit mobility) in fact my joints feel the best they have in a long time. However my weight has not budged and I now find myself with less than 2 weeks to go still wearing a size 22 . I have just been trying on my holiday clothes and feel frumpy and hate the way I look in them. My bust is huge it’s 38k, it’s never been smaller than a g cup even when I was a size 12. I hate the way clothes hang on me. I would love suggestions on clothes that may hang better / hide my big bust . I am quite tall nearly 5 ft 9. I am feeling really down when I want to feel excited, I know we will have the most wonderful time but also want to feel good about myself. I know it’s too late for me to look better before we go so not really sure what I will gain from writing this but don’t want to tell my family how I feel as they are so excited.

OP posts:
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Bgasfraudfraud · 30/07/2025 14:16

Just checked and it says the weight limit is 600lbs, think you’ll be fine OP! Stop worrying and enjoy your holiday.

Cornishclio · 29/07/2025 17:09

Loads of overweight people in Orlando so you won’t look out of place. I would go for loose and floaty dresses which will help keep you cool. I second going for cycle shorts under dresses to stop thigh rub.

EyeLevelStick · 29/07/2025 17:02

Bgasfraudfraud · 29/07/2025 10:22

What do you weigh? Is there a limit in some rides?

No, there isn’t. Many, many men will weigh more than OP so it isn’t a weight issue.

Some rides have bars and straps that might be uncomfortable, and a very few (as the OP has said she is ample bosomed) might be impossible. But most will be absolutely fone. Some coasters have seats particularly designed for larger people.

Twelftytwo · 29/07/2025 16:56

Aw I feel where you're coming from but yes absolutely don't let on to your family about your feelings and don't let it spoil a great trip!

Plus I agree you will feel great about your body amongst Americans at Disney!

doodleschnoodle · 29/07/2025 16:52

It’s not so much about weight as about fit. If the bar won’t go down or the seatbelt won’t fit etc then you might be asked to get off, but not likely at OP’s size, the rides are set up for a huge range of body sizes. And people get off the rides for all sorts of reasons anyway, sometimes people get on and have second thoughts and want to get off before it starts, etc. They always have a way to get people off safely and they will do it with the minimum of fuss and embarrassment.

Primmyhill · 29/07/2025 16:41

Bgasfraudfraud · 29/07/2025 10:22

What do you weigh? Is there a limit in some rides?

Surely they couldn't weigh you before you get on a ride and then tell you you are overweight? How humiliating.

Bgasfraudfraud · 29/07/2025 10:22

What do you weigh? Is there a limit in some rides?

Beachesandcream · 29/07/2025 10:12

I have just read through everyone’s posts . Thank you everyone for the great suggestions and tips. I was hesitant about posting but I am so glad that I did. I am going to go out on one last shopping trip for a few more bits that I feel comfortable wearing. I am feeling a lot more positive and I am going to allow the excitement to take over my anxieties so can enjoy the build up to the holiday.

OP posts:
Fruitbatdancer · 28/07/2025 22:34

Firstly, please do not worry, Disney is no fashion show! It’s people surviving kids, queues unbelievable excitement and humidity and 35,000 steps a day with jet lag!
secondly, loose, floaty tops, and trainers and proper socks, do not even attempt Disney in a flip flop or similar. Oh and take plasters!! X

gavesomanysigns · 28/07/2025 22:13

I’ve just come back from Florida- honestly style is not at the forefront of anybody’s mind, it is so hot and humid, everyone just in shorts, tshirts and mickey ears!! Go for cotton, loose and pockets and you won’t go far wrong. Also LOTS of plus size people. The biggest issue was taming the hair frizz but again, everyone in the same boat.

Pherian · 28/07/2025 22:13

Beachesandcream · 28/07/2025 11:40

I know I am probably being unreasonable but think it’s a mixture of nerves and self confidence. We are booked to go a wonderful much wished for holiday to Disneyworld for the first time. I had great plans of getting fitter and loosing weight before we went but due to a number of things this has not gone to plan. I am definitely fitter than I was - regular swimming and walking has helped ( I have a long term health condition which can limit mobility) in fact my joints feel the best they have in a long time. However my weight has not budged and I now find myself with less than 2 weeks to go still wearing a size 22 . I have just been trying on my holiday clothes and feel frumpy and hate the way I look in them. My bust is huge it’s 38k, it’s never been smaller than a g cup even when I was a size 12. I hate the way clothes hang on me. I would love suggestions on clothes that may hang better / hide my big bust . I am quite tall nearly 5 ft 9. I am feeling really down when I want to feel excited, I know we will have the most wonderful time but also want to feel good about myself. I know it’s too late for me to look better before we go so not really sure what I will gain from writing this but don’t want to tell my family how I feel as they are so excited.

It’s going to be fine. Wear really comfortable shoes and clothing you can be flexible in. Think cotton leggings, tank top and floaty cotton shirt. Light colours if you can and bring spare socks.

PeterPansFlight · 28/07/2025 22:12

Nobody cares what you look like at Disneyworld. Trust me. I'm here now and there are plenty of women larger than size 22.

AlexandraPeppernose · 28/07/2025 22:10

I'm a 22 and have just come back from a holiday during the heatwave.
I just rotated floaty maxi dresses with my chub rub shorts underneath, sandals and a floppy hat and I felt pretty everyday and in no way self conscious. For me empire line maxi dresses are the way to go for comfort and style

Turnthelightoff · 28/07/2025 22:08

I went to Disneyworld earlier this year and what struck me about the general fashion was the sheer number of Disney themed t shirts people were wearing, they were lovely and a nice thing to people spot while in the queues. So if you want to feel like you fit in go for an on brand t shirt and whatever is comfy on your bottom half. You’ll look like you’re fun and belong in that crowd, not a thought given to size. Have a great time too, it’s fabulous!

Barrenfieldoffucks · 28/07/2025 20:37

I find loose cotton or linen type maxi or midi dresses with chub rub shorts under are the coolest in the heat, or jumpsuits. You are covered up so you don't burn, but still wafty.

Primmyhill · 28/07/2025 19:14

Go and enjoy your holiday and don’t dwell on your weight, there’s nothing you can do about it now. Just tell yourself you’ll work really hard when you get home and have a plan prepared. Have one final blow out and bloody enjoy it! Please don’t beat yourself up about it.

ccridersuz · 28/07/2025 18:16

I shouldn’t worry about it, that’s a normal American size, just go and enjoy yourself, life is too short to worry!.

siucra · 28/07/2025 18:05

I think nice cotton shirts, open at the neck are the most flattering and dome M&S chino shorts, socks and light trainers (Nike have good walking ones). Nice cap and mini fan!
And then enjoy yourself. Remember this is a special holiday, you deserve to have a nice time, and be good to yourself xxx

MrBootsMedicine · 28/07/2025 17:16

Watch a couple of youtube videos on Disney World and you will see people of all sizes especially larger ones. Once you see the size of a portion of food you will realise why it is easier to be bigger in the US. You will have a fab time. I have been several times and my clothing is usually shorts but almost to my knee, t shirts or tank vest tops, ie wide straps, hair tied up due to the sweat and a baseball cap to keep the sun off my head. I wear Skechers trainers because they are incredibly comfy and do not rub my feet.

All shops, restaurants and the most of the transport system have air con. There are even (or used to be) cool down places which have giant fans and mist water onto you, near TomorrowLand Speedway in Magic Kingdom.

Take your time, wear what makes you comfortable. A lot of people are wearing bum bags and Mickey ears. Remember the US is hot, people sweat and are used to seeing people sweating too. They also sell a water spray bottle with a fan attached to cool you down should you need it.

AvidJadeShaker · 28/07/2025 16:50

Prioritise really comfy shoes and a couple of good bras.
Most people wear shorts, trainers and T shirts there and you’ll see lots of shapes and sizes.
When I went I bought a few pairs of shorts and about five pretty tops that covered my shoulders as a I have to be careful in the sun.
Could you do a massive Next online order and have a big trying in session at home?
Well done for improving your fitness.

BreathingDeep · 28/07/2025 16:43

Just to reinforce what everyone else has said, try and remember that the least important thing about you is the size of your body. Go and focus on the fun, and on the people you're with.

Anti-chafe shorts are a MUST. I'd recommend vest tops and linen shirts - they're easy and cool to wear and looks great - and they go with everything. Look online at women who are similar size and shape and see what works for them. There are some incredible women on Instagram who always look great, my favourites are:
https://www.instagram.com/lux_island/
https://www.instagram.com/molliecampsie/
https://www.instagram.com/laura.adlington/
https://www.instagram.com/rantsandbigpants/

Get your nails done, and buy a new lipstick. Choose some fab sunglasses. Embrace beautiful or fun earrings and ALL the Mickey ears!

Be in the photos. Do the things. Don't offer to be the photographer, the one who holds the bags, the one who misses out on the fun and the memory, just because you feel too uncomfortable in your own skin to take part. You're worth so much more.

Tired43 · 28/07/2025 16:30

I think it's all about perspective
9 months ago I was wearing a size 34 from yours .
Now I can't believe I'm wearing a size 22
I feel amazing,and I'm over 7 and a half stone down
I would adore a holiday in Disney

Simply be have a sale on at the minute
I've bought 5 new dresses ,that I feel fantastic in.
All for under £100
Have a look
Get some holiday clothes and look forward to going xx

Remembering39862 · 28/07/2025 16:29

My absolute lifesaver for Disney is a Body Glide anti chafe balm stick. It's a brand that serious cyclists use apparently, a bit more expensive than some alternatives, but works so well.

I used it on my feet every morning for 2 weeks and didn't get a single blister despite doing lots of walking and having quite delicate skin. It's also great for other areas that rub (I've been several times and never had Disney rash, can't say for certain but I think this is why).

Other than that, like everyone else says, just wear comfortable clothes, retreat for air con periodically, and enjoy it! It will be magical and no one will be judging about what you're wearing.

And I hope you're actually planning a trip to Beaches and Cream like your username suggests, because it's supposed to be great - I had a reservation there on my last trip but got ill and had to cancel it 😫

I could write an essay with Disney holiday tips and tricks because I love the planning stage, so feel free to DM me if you want!

FoxInABox · 28/07/2025 16:08

forgot to say - a lot of the rides have a seat outside for you to test, so you can check you are comfortable in the ride seats before queueing.

FoxInABox · 28/07/2025 16:07

Honestly OP, please do not worry. We’ve been 3 times to Florida, I’m a size 18 and was worrying so much the first time myself. Once you’re there you will see there are so many different body shapes there - and a lot will be a lot larger. Nobody cares over there. I wore shorts which I would never wear in the Uk as a hate my legs so much, however it’s so hot over there at this time of year it’s more about keeping cool and avoiding any chub rub! Take anti chafing sticks, wear whatever you feel coolest in and make sure you have good, comfortable footwear that also dries well and you can walk easily in when wet. For me it was sketchers sandals - again something I wouldn’t wear in the UK! But they have straps to keep them on on any rides, and they kept my feet comfortable all day despite having plantar fasciitis.
denim is a no go as you will get wet on rides and in the random showers. Light materials that dry quickly for the win!
I hope you have a brilliant time, I would love to get back there one day.