Since Disney World first reopened last July with a mask requirement for guests, one of the questions we hear most often is “What’s it like wearing a mask all day at Disney World?” Although we answered this question last Fall (here), we wanted to share another update with you. We just returned from our latest trip to Disney World, and wanted to share about our experience, this time in Spring 2021! We hope this helps you prepare for what it’s really like wearing a mask at Disney World!
Rules for Wearing a Mask at Disney World
While visiting Disney World, masks are required for all guests ages 2+ at all times. All of the Cast Members are wearing masks as well of course, and many also wear face shields. The only time you can remove your mask in the theme parks is if you are actively eating or drinking while stationary and physically distanced from other guests. You can also remove your mask while in one of their mask relaxation areas or while seated at your table at a restaurant. At your resort, you can also remove your face mask while swimming.
During our trip, this meant guests could not remove your mask to take photos (starting April 8, this will change for outdoor photos)! You also cannot eat or drink while walking, you will need to ‘pull over’ in order to remove your mask. Disney Cast Members are always watching to make sure everyone is following the rules; they will also call you out if you aren’t wearing your mask correctly. My mask slipped below my nose while I removed my 3D glasses getting off a ride, and before I even had a chance to pull it back up, a Cast Member was calling me out already. They really prioritize safety and make a point to ensure everyone is following the rules as best as possible! This really makes us feel a lost safer visiting a theme park right now.
Disney is also quite strict about what types of masks you can wear – for example, you cannot wear gaiters or any masks with valves. Click here to review the full requirements and ensure you have an acceptable type of mask.
Our Experience Wearing a Mask at Disney World in Spring 2021
At this point in the pandemic, we are quite used to wearing a mask. Even still, it can be a challenge for us to wear it for such a long period of time. You will definitely want to plan breaks to rest whenever possible. Whether you plan a midday table service meal, visits to a mask relaxation area or just take a midday break to head back to the resort, we definitely recommend setting aside time to rest!
We like to go to the parks first thing in the morning. We ride as much as possible before the crowds start to get heavier and the day gets hotter. After lunch, we will often head back to our resort. We like to swim or even just take a nap in the room. In the later afternoon or early evening, we go back to the park until it closes. While every family is different, that is just what works for us!
Depending on when you travel, the biggest factor will likely be the heat. For us, we had parts of our trip that was very cold (it reached down the 50s) and parts of our trip that were VERY hot (up in the 90s). As we move more into summer, the heat will only get worse. While we love the Florida sunshine, it honestly got quite uncomfortable for us wearing a mask in that heat during the peak of the day. I’m sure plenty of people are okay with it, but I have Northern blood and I did start to really struggle at times. That’s why we like to plan for midday breaks! If you are like me, I’d recommend doing the same.
You also may want to consider what time of year you are visiting and plan for a cooler season if possible. Knowing how I felt visiting in those hotter days in March, I would not plan a visit for myself in the peak of summer. We usually avoid the summer anyway, but with masks it’s even more relevant for us. This will vary significantly depending on each person’s tolerance level and preferences, but we just wanted to share our own experience.
Masks to Bring to Disney World
Before you visit, you’ll want to make sure you have masks that are comfortable for you. Everyone will have a different type or style that they like best, so test out a few and find what works! Our favorite masks are these ones from Athleta. You’ll want one that fits snugly but is comfortable to breathe in too, and not too hot.
We definitely recommend bringing a lot of masks with you on your trip. With this heat, face sweat was a factor and you’ll want to have extra masks to switch off and to be able to wash in between. We recommend bringing at least 2 masks per person into the parks each day. You can also wash your masks in your resort room in between uses.
Conclusion
Despite the masks and heat, we still had a wonderful time on this trip! We are so glad we went. You can have an amazing time too, as long as you plan accordingly. The Disney Magic is still alive in the parks, even with the changes and rules. We hope reading our blog can help you plan an amazing trip and stay up to date with changes.
Let us know what questions you have or what you’d like us to share more about!
Further Reading
- Top 5 Tips for Visiting Disney World Right Now
- All About the Disney World Phased Reopening (& What It’s Really Like!)
- Is Memory Maker Still Worth it During the Phased Reopening?
- Characters at Disney World During the Phased Reopening
- What It’s Really Like to Visit Disney World Right Now
- Easy Steps to Making Your Park Pass Reservations
- Where to Stay at Disney World
- Best Disney Resorts for Adults
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