There’s no question that the “new normal” at the theme park, at least for the foreseeable future, is going to take a bit of getting used to. Fortunately, new necessities that every Disney guest should bring will not weigh heavy in your suitcase or your park carry bag.
This is, of course, the obvious must bring to Disney World since the theme park contains both indoor and outdoor spaces with large groups of people. However, I’m here to tell you that not all masks are created equal. Design versus functionality is key when packing your face covering.
Disney is a place to have fun and as such, why not embrace your inner fashionista by bringing along masks that reflect your own personal style. With every retail outlet and brand jumping on the bandwagon with fun and fresh masks, the choices are quite vast. Disney themselves has come up with their own proprietarily Disney-designed masks available online for purchase.
Depending on the length of your stay, I would absolutely recommend bringing along numerous masks for every member in your party. Considering that Disney requires constant face covering everywhere in the parks, except while eating in designated areas, your mask will probably be quite used by the end of each day.
In fact, WDW just updated their mask rules after a week of being open. According to an article in CNN Travel “The update to the policy reads: "You may remove your face covering while actively eating or drinking, but you should be stationary and maintain appropriate physical distancing."”
Then there are also the other unexpected contingencies like masks getting wet or accidentally dropping It on the floor. You’ll want to be prepared with replacements each day in the park and for the duration of your trip
Construction is another consideration. Be sure that the material of your mask(s) best fits your park plans and the weather for each day. Cotton fabric masks are great and more aesthetically pleasing, but can be rather hot for those days with higher temps. Pack a variety of fabric masks so you can choose which is best and switch off accordingly.
2. Thermometer
Just like many other public venues, Walt Disney World is conducting temperature checks on all guests arriving at the parks. If anyone in your party has a temperature above 100.4 then all party members will be denied access to the park. It really behooves anyone traveling to WDW to self check temperatures prior to setting off for a day of fun. The last thing any Disney guest wants (especially the kiddies) is to be disappointed after traversing to a particular park and being told they cannot enter.
3. Hand Sanitizer
Folks have been carrying hand sanitizer with them for a while but now more than ever with the covid-19 pandemic. Be sure to pack enough to have on hand (no pun intended!). Of course WDW has installed hand sanitizer and washing stations, but, it’s always better to have a small stash of your own for your group.
This is one of those items that is a “better safe than sorry” one to bring. If you have older individuals in your party or like to take extra precautions when going on rides, attractions or when using the rest rooms, be sure to throw a small box in your suitcase so you have plenty for your stay.
We all like to stay connected but these days our cell phones are a greater necessity when visiting WDW. You want to be able to have access to things like the My Disney Experience app for park maps, dining reservations, fast pass schedules, making bookings and more. There are many inexpensive portable chargers, a number of which start at just $20. Amazon listed its top sellers as these are growing in popularity as public charging stations are not always accessible.
Till next time,
-Travelin' Elisa