As the parks at the Walt Disney World resort prepare to re-open, many guests are starting to prepare for their arrival. While many focus on packing mouse ears and matching family t-shirts, there are a few other items you may want to consider packing. So just what are the Disney Parks must-haves? Many items have stayed the same throughout the years, however, in this new COVID era, there are few new things to consider (as well as one that you cannot enter the parks without!)
Face Coverings (Masks)
Perhaps the most important of the must-have items in this new season are face coverings. Face coverings are required for all guests (ages 2 and up) and Cast Members. There are no exceptions to wearing a face mask while in the Disney Parks and public spaces around the Resort. Be sure to bring your own face coverings and wear them at all times, except when dining or swimming.
All face coverings should:
- Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
- Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops
- Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable
Costume masks are not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn, in alignment with existing rules. Face shields are also not to be used as an alternative to face masks. Keep in mind that the use of face coverings is not a substitute for physical distancing.
Cooling Towels
Summers in Florida are toasty! With temperatures averaging at 95° and higher, keeping cool is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Bringing a few cooling towels to drape around your necks will help you and your family stay cool in the heat. When it stops cooling, re-wet the towel and wring it out. TA-DA… it’s cool again! Of course, a few minutes on an attraction is always a great option to help keep cool.
Fans
Another option for keeping cool in the heat are fans. There are a variety of fans with a variety of purposes that can be used. Many guests opt for portable battery-powered fans that hang around your neck. Another option for the young Mouseketeers in your family is a stroller fan. These small clip-on fans can help your little ones stay cool during nap-time or while riding around the parks.
Sunscreen
Did we mention that Florida is toasty? They call it “The Sunshine State” for a reason! While fans and cooling towels may help reduce your body heat, they will not fully protect you from the sun’s rays. Sunscreen is very important to help prevent sunburns. Be sure to reapply throughout the day as sweat and water from rides can wash some of the protection off.
Hand Sanitizer & Wipes
While handwashing and sanitizer stations can be found throughout the parks, bringing your own bottle can be very beneficial. Wipe down your stroller handles or clean your hands before a quick snack; having the sanitizer at the ready will help keep you and your family healthy. The wipes can also be used to wipe off surfaces before you sit down to eat. While Disney Cast Members are cleaning tables between guest uses, its still a great way to add a level of protection for your family.
Portable Phone Charger
In an effort to provide as many contactless exchanges as possible, the use of your phone is going to be more important than ever. Mobile ordering, online check-in, contactless payments, and even opening your resort hotel room door are just some of the times you will need to use your mobile device. An external battery pack will help maintain your battery life. FuelRod stations are located throughout the theme parks and Resort hotel lobbies for a quick purchase or exchange for a new power bank.
MagicBands
With many features that will now be transitioned to a mobile feature, guests of Walt Disney World Resort hotels who received MagicBands with their stay will still be able to use them for many features. Contactless payments, opening your hotel room door, tickets, and many other uses can still be utilized with the MagicBands.
While every family has its own theme park must-haves, these are just a few of the fun things we feel you just cannot leave home without. Forget to pack some of them? Not to worry! All of the items listed above can be purchased from your Resort hotel gift shop, World of Disney and the various theme park shops. What is your theme park must-have?
Be sure to contact your favorite Dream Designer travel agent, or request your free quote by clicking here.
