Tips for Planning for Your Walt Disney World Trip in a Post-Quarantine World

Anyone going to Disney World soon should definitely do their research first. While the most magical place on earth is open, and while we should all be excited, there are many things that are different about the Disney experience for the time being.

Fortunately, having fun during a Disney getaway is 100% possible. That said, there are things you’ll want to know going in, as well as preparations you’ll need to make in order to ensure you still have a magical time despite the changes. Here are our top tips for planning your trip to Disney World in a post-quarantine world.

1. Have an On-Site Room Booked and Tickets Purchased

First and foremost, you will want to make sure you have an onsite room booked and tickets purchased. Currently, Disney isn’t even accepting new hotel reservations, nor is it selling any new tickets. They are letting those with previously purchased tickets and hotel reservations get their vacations sorted first.

That said, even when they do open these options up to the public, Disney will require guests to pre-purchase tickets. There’s also a good chance they will give onsite guests preferences when it comes to reserving days at the park, making an onsite hotel booking a must-have.

2. Get Park Entry Reservations

Yes, you read that right: Guests will now be making reservations for park entry. Only a certain number of guests will be allowed to enter each park each day. This is to ensure the park stays empty enough for guests to practice social distancing. Unfortunately, it also means some people may not be allowed to enter their preferred park on any given day. Make sure to snag your park entry reservations as soon as that option opens up.

3. Consider Transportation

While it is completely possible to fly, it isn’t necessarily the best way to travel at this point. Instead, consider roadtripping it. Better yet, take an RV and stay in Fort Wilderness, so you can use your own bathroom and kitchen throughout the trip and skip the hotel rooms. If you must fly, look for an airline that is both blocking off middle seats and requiring masks for passengers in order to protect yourself and others.

4. Know What’s Closed and Canceled

In order to avoid meltdowns from little ones and deep disappointment for others, make sure you know what’s closed and cancelled before you ever leave home. For instance, things like fireworks shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets won’t be happening anytime soon. If you can’t handle missing out on these things, consider rescheduling your trip for a later date.

5. Understand New Dining Options

In addition to shows and attractions, dining has also changed at Disney World. Again, you will want to know what to expect going in, so you aren’t disappointed by what you can’t have.

6. Canceled Reservations

If you booked reservations previously, they have been canceled automatically. Know this and be prepared to snag new reservations where you can, when you can. Reservations should reopen closer to July, and all guests will have a 60-day booking window rather than the usual 180-day window.

7. Closed Restaurants

Many restaurants will be closed. In fact, all in-park table-service dining will be closed during the initial reopening phase. Be sure to find a list of eateries that will be open during your stay and plan your meals around those options.

8. Mobile Ordering

Mobile ordering is available and encouraged while in the parks. Plan on using this option for shorter wait times and contactless payment.

9. Get a Mask Ahead of Time

As you’ve likely already heard, Disney is requiring that all guests wear masks while in the parks and in the resort common areas. While they might be providing a limited number of disposable masks each day, these can and will run out. Therefore, we highly recommend picking up a nice cloth mask to use throughout your trip before you leave home. Shopdisney.com has a number of adorable character masks that will help bring a little magic to your day.

10. Pack Hand Sanitizer

While washing your hands is always the best thing to do, there will be instances when you can’t do that easily. For this reason, we highly recommend packing hand sanitizer in your park bag. Use this often throughout the day to ensure your hands stay as germ-free as possible.

11. Pick Up Sanitizing Wipes

In addition to hand sanitizer, we also recommend adding some sanitizing wipes to your park bag. These can be used to wipe down surfaces before using them. For instance, if you want to sit on a bench or at a table, you can give it a quick wipe-down to ensure you don’t pick up any germs left behind by the last user.

12. Relax and Get Ready for Fun

Last but not least, try to relax. While planning a trip during this time might be a little more complicated, there is absolutely no reason not to have a great time during your Disney World vacation. Go in with a positive attitude and we know you’ll have a great time!