Ultimate Guide to Surviving the Summer Heat at Walt Disney World

"Winter's a good time to stay in and cuddle but put me in summer and I'll be a..."

People say that there is never a bad time to visit Walt Disney World.  However, summer in central Florida can be absolutely brutal.  Imagine the sun beating down on you at 90 degrees, with humidity surrounding you and weighing you down. Imagine searching for the merest hint of a breeze, whilst the overpowering heat is reflecting back up on you from the scorching pavements.

Feeling Hot! Hot! Hot!

It is enough to make you feel like a chicken being roasted in an oven, ready for Sunday lunch. When it's hot in summer then Disney is no walk in the park.

All joking aside, the heat is a serious business. If you don't believe me then just ask the WDW park emergency services and first aiders who are constantly being called to help people suffering from heat-related illnesses.

Recognizing Heat Illness

A Refreshing Orange Bird for WDWAO's Heather and her Mom.

Recognizing signs of heat illness can be difficult as they vary and can quickly sneak up on you, no matter how hydrated you think you are. 

Producing sweat is your body's natural air conditioning, which kicks in when you start feeling hot. If we stop sweating then our body cannot regulate its temperature which may lead to heatstroke. If we sweat too much then this may lead to dehydration.

Other indicators that there is something wrong include dizziness and feeling faint, weak or shaky.  If this happens to you or someone in your party, then seek air conditioning or shade straight away and inform a cast member for medical aid. 

Don’t drink ice cold water but sip cool water as you don’t want to shock your overheated body. A cooling towel at the back of your neck can help, as well.  Please bear in mind that this is short-term advice and you should seek guidance from a medical professional.

The 'Disney Rash'

Something else to look out for is what is commonly known to park-goers as "The Disney Rash". This is actually exercise-induced vasculitis, an inflammation of the blood vessels caused by a combination of excessive walking and heat exposure. Symptoms include red or purple blotches, swelling and a burning sensation on the skin of your lower legs that isn’t covered by clothing. So, if you’re wearing socks, for example, you will see signs of the rash starting from just above the sock line. 

The Dreaded ‘Disney Rash’

The 'Disney Rash' is mostly harmless and will clear up on its own in about 3 to10 days, with the skin discoloration disappearing in 3 to 4 weeks. If you are suffering, ways to ease symptoms include staying out of the heat, wearing compression socks, stopping all exercise and keeping your legs elevated above your heart-level.

Being Proactive

Prevention is better than cure and there are strategies that we can put in place to reduce the chance of a heat-related illness.

Keep in mind, though, that different strokes work for different folks, and just like the tactics people use to cope with rollercoasters, there is not a one size fits all approach. 

Try to wear loose fitting clothes made of breathable, lightweight material and try to avoid dark colors that absorb the heat.

Portable fans can be a lifesaver. Try to bring a power bank so you can recharge them when the blades stop turning. Cooling towels and mist sprays are also essentials for summer visits.

Other suggestions include wide-brimmed hats that keep the sun off your face or exposed head if you are follically challenged. Umbrellas are not only for rain; UV umbrellas can protect you from rays whilst providing some much-needed shade.

Stay hydrated by sipping water throughout the day. Try to avoid alcoholic drinks, sugary drinks and salty snacks which may leave you dehydrated. Electrolyte hydration tablets will also help to replenish lost fluids.

Take a stay-cool water bottle, which you can refill at designated water stations or quick service locations. If you are able to access the soda stations then you can also refill there with water and ice.

Remember not to push yourself too hard in an effort to make the most out of your park day. Take plenty of breaks during your visit, and if available take advantage of some afternoon hotel pool time. Make use of Disney’s air conditioning by scheduling shows, shopping breaks and restaurant dining at regular intervals throughout the day.

Heather's Mom Puts Her Feet Up in a Quiet Area of the Contemporary Resort

I am planning a visit in August, and before both you and I question my sanity, if you are sensible and plan your day in accordance with the weather forecast, you should have a fun time in the sun without any dramas.

Remember to Schedule Regular Breaks and Refuel Your Body.

Remember, the tips and advice we have given on this blog are just that - tips and advice. Always seek the guidance of a medical professional if needed.

Is anyone else planning a summer visit?

What are your best heat strategies and ideas for surviving summer at Disney World? and staying healthy in the sun?

We would love to hear about your tips and experiences in the comments below.