Greetings, Whitney!
I want to thank you for continuing to bring your questions to planDisney. We are so excited to help with your magical trip! Speaking of excitement, let's talk
MagicBands. These fabulous vacation accessories are a cute and convenient way to enter the four theme parks, open the door to your Walt Disney World Resort Collection hotel room, and access your
Disney PhotoPass memories.
MagicBands work like, well magic. A tap of the wrist is all you need. There is no need to search through bags trying to find tickets while standing in line or look for a hotel room key while holding a sleepy traveler. Everything you need is connected to your band. You can even charge purchases like Mickey Bars and Minnie Ears to your Disney Resort hotel. I love anything that makes travel easier! Think of it as a ticket, room key, payment method, and a way to connect with memorable photos all in one easy-to-use tool.
So, now the big question. When is the best time to order? This is all about preference. I have personally ordered months and a few weeks before arrival. My order mainly revolves around band choice. The selections available in
My Disney Experience change often, and when I see the perfect pattern I place my order. There are a few important dates that may help determine your final decision. Guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel wanting to receive their MagicBands before their upcoming trip will need to order no later than 11 days prior to check-in. Shipping times may vary, so my advice would be to give yourself two weeks. MagicBands ordered six to ten days from your trip will be shipped directly to your Disney Resort hotel. You will not be able to pre-order a band less than six days from check-in. If you are not staying at Disney Resort hotel, but still want to order a MagicBand before your upcoming adventure, I recommend purchasing your new favorite accessory from
shopDisney. Be sure to check their shipping guidelines to determine when to order. You will still be able to link your MagicBands to your tickets and PhotoPass.
There is also the option to purchase your MagicBands upon arrival to The Most Magical Place on Earth. MagicBands are available throughout the theme parks, at Disney Resort hotels, and at many shops in
Disney Springs. This choice may work for you if there is a specific band you or a member of your travel party loves, but isn't available in My Disney Experience. Any MagicBand purchased after arrival can be linked through your My Disney Experience Account, or by one of the many amazing Cast members.
I hope that this information helps you decide what timeframe is right for your upcoming travels.
See ya real soon!
Tammy