If you’re planning a trip to Disney, you’ve undoubtedly heard about MagicBands. You may have even been told they’re a “Must Have” for your trip. But, what ARE they, and what do they do? And are they worth the cost?
What are Magic Bands?
The MagicBand, which made its debut at Disney World in Orlando in 2013, is widely recognized for streamlining the guest experience, according to reports. Surveys conducted by Disney showed that after the introduction of MagicBands, more people expressed interest in returning to the park than ever before.
Initially, guests of the Walt Disney World Resort were given free MagicBands, which were included in their vacation packages. The original versions were plain and available in basic, solid colors. The OG version was gray but was still quite stylish, comfortable, adjustable, and waterproof.
MagicBands use radio frequency technology to communicate with Disney’s devices, such as telling a PhotoPass photographer’s handheld system who you are so that your photos are linked to your MyDisneyExperience account.
While children under the age of 3 are not required to have a park ticket, they may still want a MagicBand.
What Do They Do?
With a simple tap, MagicBands provide the following functions:
- Grant access to the theme park (with a valid theme park admission and park reservations)
- Check-in at Lightning Lane and virtual queue entrances (previously known as the FastPass+ system)
- Allow payment for purchases made to your Disney Resort hotel room (with a secure PIN)
- Connect to Disney PhotoPass images
- Serve as a room key to enter your accommodation
Setting up MagicBands is an easy process. If you have a reservation at the Walt Disney World Resort hotel or have purchased or renewed an Annual Pass, you can purchase select MagicBands at a discounted price through the My MagicBands and Cards section in your MyDisneyExperience account. If purchased more than 10 days before your check-in, they will be shipped for free. Otherwise, you can pick them up at the front desk of your resort between 10 and 6 days before your arrival. Simply pack them in your carry-on bag and you’re good to go!
A discounted price is offered to guests who choose to buy MagicBands before their arrival, and those who wish to decline a new MagicBand can do so.
MagicBands are available for purchase to anyone at ShopDisney online or in-person at several park stores. If bought this way, they must be connected to your MyDisneyExperience account, a straightforward process.
We still enjoy selecting new MagicBands as a family before each trip, as they serve as a type of keepsake (to be honest, we hardly ever purchase souvenirs in gift shops nowadays), and they offer a fun way to display your favorite character or showcase your personality.
MagicBands can be reused. (The original and MagicBand 2 have a small battery with a lifespan of approximately two years). To check whether your MagicBand is still operational, simply navigate to My MagicBands and Cards in your MyDisneyExperience account.
Disney has continued to unveil innovative versions, such as the MagicBand 2, which was developed to be more comfortable than the original MagicBands, and the latest MagicBand+. As part of the 50th Anniversary celebration, Disney World introduced the MagicBand+ in fall of 2022. Along with all of the features of the original MagicBand, the MagicBand+ includes customizable color-changing lights, haptic vibrations that enhance experiences, and gesture recognition for surprises in the parks.
So, Do I *NEED* Them?
No. You really don’t.
They’re certainly a fun convenience, and WE definitely use them for multiple day visits. Disney surveys showed that MagicBands streamlined the guest experience and were credited for the increase in return visits. They’re also a fun fashion statement highlighting your favorite characters and locations at the parks.
But, some guests view them as an unnecessary expense, or something that their child could easily misplace. If you fall under this category, or if MagicBands don’t fit into your budget, they aren’t necessary.
Whether or not you want to purchase MagicBands is up to your personal preference.
If you’ve already purchased your theme park tickets, you can opt for two alternatives to MagicBands:
- The first is MagicMobile, which is available in the MyDisneyExperience app and offers a contactless way to access MagicBand features through your eligible iPhone, Apple Watch, or Google Pay-enabled Android phone.
- The second option is to go to Will Call and pick up Admission Cards, which can be done at any Disney Ticket Center or ticket window outside the theme parks.
To use either of these options, you’ll need to link your tickets to your MyDisneyExperience account using your confirmation number in order to make Park Pass Reservations prior to your trip.
