If you’re planning a visit to Disney World, the best time to go is when the skies are clear and the temperature is comfortable. Those sunny days in Florida make for picture-perfect scenes, but the harsh sun rays can be damaging to your skin. Stay protected from the sun as you navigate the parks at Disney World by packing the essentials and spending some time in the shade.
Pack Sunscreen
The best way to protect your skin from sunburn is by applying sunscreen periodically throughout the day. As you pack your first aid kit, bring along travel-sized sunscreen for everyone in your family.
Choose Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens
For the best quality sunscreen, look out for packages labeled “broad-spectrum.” Unlike traditional sunscreens, these moisturizers protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Make sure it’s SPF 30 or higher for full protection while you stand in line for rides or stroll through the parks.
Reapply Often for Maximum Protection
Sweating in the Florida heat or enjoying water rides like Splash Mountain can quickly wipe off any sunscreen. To avoid sunburn, reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming. Set reminders on your phone to moisturize both yourself and your children during your Disney visit.
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
If you’re planning a Disney-bound outfit, pack clothes that will keep you safe for a long, sunny day. Wearing extra layers can protect your skin from excess exposure to the sun. Look out for lightweight clothing to avoid discomfort or heatstroke during those hot days.
Lightweight and Long-Sleeved Apparel
Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing offers sun protection and regulates your body temperature. For instance, long-sleeved shirts made with UPF fabrics can shield your arms without making you feel overheated. Head to your local athletic or outdoor recreational stores and look for clothing suitable for long-term exposure to the sun.
Hats and Sunglasses
Wide-brimmed hats are cooling and stylish accessories to wear as you’re navigating long outdoor queues. They protect your scalp and provide additional shade for your face. You can even find Disney ears baseball caps from local sellers like Florida Gifts to add flair to your outfit.
Don’t forget polarized sunglasses! Bright, metallic surfaces or long gazes at the sun could cause permanent damage to your retinas. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses throughout the day.
Plan for Shade Breaks
Going to Disney World with a schedule keeps everything organized. Instead of spending your entire day outside, map out areas where you can take a break from the sun and relax under the shade or inside with air conditioning.
Use Disney’s Shaded Areas
You can find shady spots where you can take a brief break all around the parks. Look for shaded seating in areas like Epcot’s World Showcase or Animal Kingdom’s lush trails. Tree-covered spaces and iconic landmarks like Cinderella’s Castle are also large structures where you can seek shelter if the sunrays become too hot to handle.
Arrive in the Morning or Evening
The sun’s rays are most intense between 10 AM and 4 PM. If you want to stay protected from the sun at Disney World, plan your visits early in the morning or in the late afternoon. If you need to take a break during those peak hours, stop by your hotel and come back to the park when the sun goes down.
Time Your Indoor Attractions
Between those outdoor rides, take some time to visit indoor attractions during the peak midday sun. Watching a show at Mickey’s PhilharMagic or exploring Spaceship Earth can keep the whole family cool and safe while enjoying the magic of Disney.
This is also a great time to check out the unique restaurants during lunchtime. Create a schedule for your day that keeps everyone safe from the sun while checking out those iconic Disney attractions.
Hydration To Combat Heat Exhaustion
It can be easy to forget to drink water while you’re taking in the sights, but dehydration can be very harmful on those warm sunny days. Always have a water bottle nearby for you and your family to rehydrate throughout the day.
Refill Water Bottles at Disney Water Stations
Buying water bottles for your family at Disney can be costly. Luckily, the parks allow reusable water bottles for those looking to pack a few in their day bag. Drink up and refill them at Disney’s water stations conveniently located throughout the parks.
Bring Hydrating Snacks
If you want a small treat while you’re waiting in line, snack on fresh fruits like watermelon slices or cucumbers. You can often find these fruits at the parks’ stands or pack your own when your little ones start craving sweets. These quick bites provide natural hydration to keep your energy levels high.
Use an Umbrella for Extra Shade
If you don’t want to add layers of clothes to your body, bring along an umbrella to keep you and your family protected from the harsh sun rays. A sturdy umbrella will grant you portable shade and shelter whenever you need it.
Compact Travel Umbrellas
A compact, lightweight travel umbrella can create shade, even when none is available. This is especially useful for parades or outdoor performances at the parks. If you’re standing for a long period of time underneath the sun, open your umbrella and shelter your family.
Multi-Use Rain and Sun Protection
Florida’s rain showers can be unpredictable and could put a damper on your family trip. Bring enough compact umbrellas for the whole family so that everyone stays protected from sudden rain.
After-Sun Care
Once you’re ready to head home after a fun day of Disney activities, check your skin to see if you have any red marks. To prevent severe damage, perform a skin-care routine before you head to bed for the night.
Cool Down After Exposure
Help your skin recover by applying aloe vera gel or a cooling after-sun lotion. Be sure to reach all the areas exposed to the sun, like your face and the back of your neck. These remedies can soothe any redness or discomfort.
Stay Moisturized Overnight
Hydrate your skin overnight with lotions containing soothing ingredients like shea butter or hyaluronic acid. This moisturizing layer will heal your skin from any damage so you can rest and embark on another day at the parks.
After the sun goes down, there are plenty of activities to explore around the parks. From the fireworks show in Magic Kingdom to the countless restaurants open for dinnertime, Disney is full of attractions that will keep your family entertained all day long. Start your Disney adventure by booking a trip to Florida today!