There are so many things to consider when planning a trip to the most magical place on earth. But the real question you should ask before you book that vacation is “Can I/ Will I be able to wear a face mask for the entire trip?” With the parks starting to reopen on July 11, Disney has announced that all Cast Members and visitors will be required to wear a face mask. Per CDC guidelines, all guests two and up must comply. Some quests are sure to seethe at these new rules and while practical in theory, this concept is easier said than done. Have you ever tried eating a dole whip with a mask on?
Before you cancel those plans, there is a silver lining to be found. While walking around the parks and resorts, guests may have masks lowered for eating or sipping on a drink. Masks can be off while guests are seated at a restaurant, as well as in “zones” designated for a mask break. Face masks will not be required when guests are swimming in the pools, but will be needed in the pool area. Guests will have to wear a mask in the gym, while working out. Disney World is also executing guidelines for social distancing, as well as enhanced cleaning procedures. Guests will also be required to pass a temperature screening before admittance into the parks. Hand sanitizing stations are situated throughout the parks. These are certainly some of the more feasible regulations to surface as we begin to near the opening of the parks.
So before you go, here are some tips to help you decide if returning to the parks at this time is right for you and your family. And if it is, we have suggestions to make donning the masks more bearable.
- Test out wearing a mask for an extended amount of time. Go for a walk and do daily tasks. Realize that wearing the mask is exacerbated by the heat and humidity.
- If you have young children, have them wear a mask while playing and doing outdoor activities. It is difficult to keep anything on a two year old and Disney will enforce these requirements.
- Purchase masks with lightweight, breathable material. For maximum effectiveness, you need a mask with a tightly woven cloth. The material that meets both of these requirements is cotton.
- When purchasing masks, keep comfort in mind. Straps can irritate your ears, but head straps and ties can feel too restrictive.
- Bring extras: A wet mask is not an effective mask and masks used too often are considered no longer safe. Do not rely on Disney to have masks available to hand out or even for sale when demand is so high.
- When planning your trip, allow for breaks in the day. Take time to relax in your room or by the pool. It will make wearing the masks in the parks a lot more doable.
Unfortunately, with Covid-19 still ever present in the world, there aren’t a lot of options when it comes to having fun while staying safe. The restrictions and requirements being implemented by Disney are there to keep all cast members and guests safe. Rest assured, you’ll still be able to scream on the roller coasters and now everyone will be wearing a mask on Halloween.