I've searched the Forum before posting with no luck. Does anyone know if "cloth" face masks are acceptable on the tours?
I believe the RS guidelines are to come prepared in the event your bus driver/tour guide requests you wear one either on the bus or a particular location on the tour.
Unless things have changed and I've overlooked it.
I suggest you contact RSE and ask them directly.
The info for my upcoming tour stated that if/when masks are required, only the KN95 or equivalent will suffice.
No, they aren't. Get yourself as the previous poster said some KN95 or equivalent.
I've reached out the the RS office for clarification.
Will I need to wear a mask in Europe and what kind?
Europe has relaxed masking requirements, but it's still smart to bring some along. If you do need a mask, you'll need the N95, KN95, or KF94 type.
https://www.ricksteves.com/tours/coronavirus-faq
Cloth masks won’t really protect you from Covid or its variants.
KN95 masks are available online , or if you live in a large town, in a drugstore.
Be sure to buy ones made in the US or Canada to ensure good quality.
I think cloth masks fell by the wayside back in 2020. No one has been wearing them because they don't protect you or anyone else.
If you are looking for comfort, S. Korea makes a good one called Air Queen. I don't mind wearing these all day long, when needed.
If there is an FFP2 mask requirement, I recommend a neck strap that keeps the mask straps off of your ears. A small investment that makes wearing a mask for a longer time more comfortable. Especially if you are wearing headphones etc. I can't comment on the RS Tour requirements, but I just flew from Germany to the US thru Paris and returned thru Amsterdam and there were no mandatory mask requirements.
Why even ask about cloth masks? Just take a good effective mask. Either you want to be protected, or protect others, or you do not.
Cloth masks, bandanas and gaiters are so 2020.
Bring along a good supply of good masks and USE THEM on planes, airports and crowded spaces. You can also buy on the ground.
this is/was considered one of the best vendors, and you can usually find discount codes online
Cloth masks are absolutely useless for protecting you so let us know what the RSE office tells you please. You still may need a N95 mask if you take any public transport where you visit.
