How to Stay Cool and Enjoy Your Walt Disney World Vacation

Magic is in the air. Excitement awaits at every turn as you and your family embark on your journey to Walt Disney World® Resort. Whether it’s your first visit or one of many, at AdventHealth, we’re here to help you make the most of your Walt Disney World vacation with expert tips for how you and your family can stay cool and healthy from one adventure to the next.

Expert Strategies to Avoid Heat-Related Illnesses

With Central Florida’s hot and humid weather, it’s possible to experience dehydration, heat exhaustion or sunburn while exploring the parks. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and take the right steps to stay safe so you can enjoy your adventures in the parks.

Let’s take a closer look at common heat-related illnesses. And remember, help will always be close by if you need it. Should you need medical assistance, you can find us both in the first aid stations in the theme parks and within a few minutes’ drive.

Sunburn

Whether it’s a cloudy day or you’re rushing to the theme parks to catch your favorite rides, we know it can be easy to forget your sunscreen. However, just because you can’t see the sun doesn’t mean it isn’t just as powerful. The UV rays that cause sunburn are invisible and as risky on cloudy days as on sunny days.

It’s a good park safety tip to recognize the symptoms of sunburn, which include reddened skin, pain, swelling or blisters. Follow these tips to stay sunburn-free and make the most of your visit:

• Apply sunscreen, SPF 15 or higher, every day before going outdoors.
• Check to make sure your sunscreen has not expired.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours when you’re outdoors.
• Use enough sunscreen and apply it everywhere.
• Wear sun-protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses.

Pro tip: Invest in a UV-reflective umbrella, making outdoor temperatures seem ten degrees Fahrenheit cooler when underneath.

Sunscreen Smarts

Watch this video to learn commonly missed places when applying sunscreen:

Read more about sunscreen protection.

Dehydration

Central Florida tends to be humid, which can trick your body into thinking it’s not thirsty. However, it’s important to prioritize hydration. While trekking toward your next adventure at the parks, Florida’s summer humidity can make you sweat much more than you might at home. Dehydration can sneak up on you, so being prepared is important.

Dehydration can cause you to feel dizzy or weak and make your skin flushed. If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, move indoors or to a shaded area. Drink lots of water and electrolytes, and let your body rest. If the dehydration symptoms aren’t going away, consider visiting the nearest in-park First Aid location.

Pro Tip: It takes a little time to acclimate to different temperatures and humidity levels than you might have at home, so giving yourself some grace is a good idea. Consider moving a little slower and taking time to cool off. Snacking on a frozen treat is another great way to lower your body temperature.

Heatstroke

What is heatstroke? Heatstroke is a condition caused by the body overheating, usually due to physical activity in high temperatures without drinking enough water. Heatstroke requires emergency care. Without treatment, it can cause damage to the heart, brain, muscles and kidneys. Protect yourself and your family from heatstroke by watching for these symptoms:

• A body temperature of 104° F or higher
• Hallucinations
• Headaches, confusion or trouble thinking clearly
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Skin redness and warmth
• Vomiting or diarrhea

If you notice these heatstroke warning signs, move to the shade or seek out air conditioning. Medical assistance is available to you at any in-park First Aid locations presented by AdventHealth.

Pro tip: Stock up on essentials like cooling towels, large-brimmed hats and battery-operated misting fans. Meet the outdoors wearing loose-fitting, moisture-wicking athletic shirts in light colors. Don't choose a regular T-shirt that can get warm and retain sweat. Choose comfortable, breathable shoes.

A Theme Park Plan of Action

You can maximize your fun if you prioritize your park adventures. For example, many people take a break during the hottest part of the day and return to their Disney Resorts Collection Hotel. Rest will give you and your family more energy for evenings at Walt Disney World Resort — and it’ll be cooler.

Pro tip: Bring your own refillable water bottle so you can stay hydrated all day.

Give yourself and your family plenty of time between meals and rides. Avoid eating a heavy meal at lunchtime; hot weather can mix poorly with an overly full stomach. Lastly, grab some powder or an anti-chafing stick to avoid heat rashes.

Know Where to Go for Trusted Health Care

It’s our goal at AdventHealth to provide expert and seamless care so you can feel better. We’re here for you 24/7 during your Walt Disney World vacation, should you need us. If you need expert medical attention, we want you to know where to go:

• AdventHealth Centra Care, located in Lake Buena Vista
• AdventHealth ER at FLAMINGO CROSSINGS Town Center
• In-room medical visits are available
• 24/7 telehealth access via the AdventHealth app

Visit us at AdventHealth for guidance on what level of care you need based on your symptoms. While you plan your Walt Disney World vacation, trusted care from our AdventHealth Care Concierge team is just a click or call away to help make arrangements for your family’s health needs.