Do you need to wear a mask on your summer holiday?
While masks and social distancing rules have changed in the UK. Not all holiday destinations are the same. Many popular European holiday destinations require masks in certain situations. We explain the rules on face masks in Europe. Although it can be a challenge to wear a mask regularly in hot weather, it may be a requirement of your holiday country. We look at the top five European holiday spots for Brits, and their rules on mask wearing.
Top 5 destinations
1. Italy
Hit hard by Covid-19, Italy still have some mask requirements in place. Until September 30th 2022, face masks are mandatory on transport such as public transport, buses, coaches, ships and more.
Wearing masks is no longer required on airplanes and for access to indoor shows and sporting events. However, the Italian Government highly recommend wearing face masks indoors and for crowded events.
Read more at Italia. IT
2. France
Like many places in Europe, you no longer need to wear masks on public transport. Although some small towns and villages may have different rules. Visiting tourist places such as museums do not generally require you to wear a mask.
However, any hospitals, nursing homes etc. require masks and a health pass. So if you are visiting family in any sort of medical facility, ensure you have a vaccine pass.
Read more at Gov UK
3. Greece
Like the above two countries, most of the mask mandates have been removed. However, it is still a requirement to wear a mask in hospitals, care facilities and on public transport.
While you may not be asked for a face mask in most shops, pharmacies still require a mask to be worn.
Read more at Gov UK
4. Spain
As of the 20th of April 2022, Spain made it no longer mandatory to wear a mask indoors or outdoors, with a few specific exceptions. The main one being public transport. Planes, trains and buses, as well as any other public transport require the use of a mask.
As expected, you must wear a mask in healthcare environments, including pharmacies. You also need to wear a mask in shops or boats where social distancing cannot be maintained.
Read more at Travel Safe
5. Malta
Restrictions in Malta are relaxed in comparison to others. It is not mandatory to wear a face mask inside, outside, or on public transportation.
However, individual establishments can ask customers to wear masks or present a vaccination certification at their own discretion. For UK residents, your NHS Covid vaccine certificate (letter and digital versions) are accepted.
Read more at Gov UK
General guidance on face masks in Europe
While each country has their own rules and exemptions, it is UK Government advice to always be prepared for things to change. Ensure you take face masks with you as you travel around your destination, in case an establishment has rules different to the rest of the country.
For extra preparation, ensure you have travel insurance and have plans in place if you are required to isolate or have any other Covid related problems. Read more travel guidance from the UK Government here.
Where to buy quality face masks?
We have a range of types of face masks in our Sale. Ranging from disposable, to re-usable to KN95 masks. Depending on your needs, we have face masks for you and to keep you and your family safe during your holidays.
Disposable face masks
Disposable face masks are usually a preferred choice for travellers, as you are unlikely to have washing facilities in hotels for reusable masks. We have a range of face masks, ranging from packs of 50, to packs of 10 for shorter trips.
3 & 4 ply face masks
These are the most commonly worn masks, and you are likely to have seen people wearing them in shops and on transport etc.
Our blue disposable face masks come in two different plys, both available in packs of 50. Ideal for families or large groups traveling together.
Find these face masks in the sale here!
KN95 face masks
For a smaller pack option, the KN95 masks come in packs of 10.
They are the equivalent of FFP2 European regulations.
Comfortable to wear while providing excellent protection.
