Welcome to planDisney, Alicia!
We're so glad you brought a question our way. Your magical vacation is on the horizon, and I'm happy to help check off those last few items on your to-do list.
MagicBands are a convenient way to unlock your resort door, enter the theme parks with valid admission, and even quickly link
Disney PhotoPass photos to your account. At one time, resort guests were able to order discounted bands ahead of their stay, but this discount is no longer offered. While you can still order personalized bands and have them shipped to your home or your resort's Front Desk ahead of your check-in date, you'll pay the same price as you would if you wait to purchase in person.
MagicBand and MagicBand+ purchases must be made at least 11 days prior to your reservation in order to be shipped to your US home address. If you miss that window, you can still order bands to be picked up at your Disney Resort hotel between 6-10 days before your check-in date. Since your arrival is just 2 days away, you'll need to wait until you're on-site to view the inventory and make your selection.
You'll be able to quickly
set up and link your new bands to your My Disney Experience account, but I recommend
creating a Disney MagicMobile Pass as a backup option for entering the parks. You can create one for each member of your party and swipe through as needed to enter the parks or Lightning Lane queues with the purchase of Lightning Lane Passes. When it's time to enter your room, stop by your resort's Front Desk for a physical key card or use the
unlock feature right in the
My Disney Experience app if you plan to use
Direct-to-Room Service.
While MagicBands are definitely handy, they aren't required to enjoy your vacation. Should you decide you'd still like to add one to your collection (I have 3, so I can't say I blame you), you should find a variety of options in your resort's gift shop and at larger merchandise locations like
Emporium at Magic Kingdom Park and Creations Shop at EPCOT.
Alicia, I hope this helps. Please come back and see us again with any other last-minute questions that arise. We're always glad to help!
Magic and memories,
Amy