Travel in the Age of the Mask

​I think we can all agree that travel is going to look very different for a while amid the pandemic.  From temperature checks to increased sanitation, the list of precautions to keep us safe is growing.  Today I would like to discuss one particular precaution – the mask. 

With airlines now requiring passengers to wear masks, and destinations like Disneyland Resort in Shanghai requiring them as well, I think it is safe to assume that masks will be, if not required, highly recommended when U.S. destinations begin to open again.  As timing would have it, it appears the world is going to start opening again in some of the hottest months for us in the U.S.  Below I have compiled some of my favorite tips for wearing a mask both while traveling and in the heat.  Please note, I am not a medical professional and these recommendations are merely suggestions that could help make your life more comfortable while following the guidelines set out by the CDC to wear masks for your protection as well as the protection of others.
 
Use a breathable fabric.
 
Masks are meant to filter the air we breathe meaning they are going to feel restrictive because of the very nature of their function.  When wearing a reusable mask, make sure you choose a breathable cotton fabric.  100% cotton is recommended.
 
Take care of your skin.
 
Because of the way these mask work, the likelihood of breakouts will increase if worn for a prolonged period of time.  Be sure to use moisturizer and a good cleanser to aid in the reduction of those blemishes!
 
Wear sunscreen.
 
While I always recommend wearing sunscreen to protect yourself when outside on your vacations, it is not even more important to do so for one reason – who would want a mask tan?  You have probably seen the meme going around of the couple that have burnt faces and the white mask marks.  Don’t let that be you – wear sunscreen!
 
Consider mid-day breaks.
 
Though mid-day breaks are something many families do already while traveling, it might be even more important now.  Going back to your hotel room would allow you to have a break from your mask, wash your face, re-apply sunscreen, and just cool off in general. 
 
Use disposable masks (if possible).
 
I saved this one for last because I wanted to make it clear that I only recommend this if there is no supple shortage and disposable masks can be easily ordered.  If medical workers are in need, please use a cloth mask instead.  Now, assuming you can easily purchase disposable masks, I like them for traveling for several reasons.  First of all, they can be thrown away when you are done.  This is nice if they get really sweaty or dirty during the day.  It is also nice that you will not have to pack or wear a mask that has been used for days and possibly harboring all those germs.  I also feel like disposable mask are cooler than the fabric masks, and I think they are lighter to wear all day.  
 
Hopefully some of these suggestions will help you feel more comfortable as we enter the new norm of mask wearing while traveling. 

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About the Author:

Morgan Scully, Lead Enchanted Planner & Global Travel Advisor
Morgan is passionate about all things Disney. From an early age she loved taking in the magic of Disney World, but its when she became a mom and she saw life through her daughters' eyes that she truly understood how amazing a Disney vacation can be for a family. Morgan is well versed in all things Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line. She also serves as Whitney World Travel's Military Vacation Specialist-- helping the brave men and women who serve our country and their families get the most out of their vacations. Morgan is a graduate of Texas A&M University.