Jen,
Thanks for asking me your question at planDisney!
The features of the new
MagicBand+ are really a game changer! I am sure we are all going to love the heightened level of interaction in the parks, during shows, and on attractions. FYI, I ordered the
"Disney Dad" band!
You can purchase your MagicBand+ by going into your
My Disney Experience account and picking your favorite design from a large number of choices. You do get a discount if you are buying one as a part of a Disney Resort package. Please note that to get this discount, you do have to order more than 6 days prior to your visit. What you want to do is this.
Step 1: From the Walt Disney World home page, hover over
"My Disney Experience" in the upper right. From the menu that pops up, select
"My MagicBands and Cards"Step 2: On that page you should see lots of different band options, so select your favorite and place the order. You should also be able to do so for any members of your immediate party. Disney will then ship your bands to your home, since you are in the United States.
To your final question, the new MagicBand+ bands are rechargeable! The one I ordered through my resort reservation comes with a charging cable, though I don't know if ones you might buy in their gift stores do as well, so be sure to get a cable either way.
BONUS TIP
Because these bands do so much more for you in a day than the MagicBands of old, you will likely find yourself recharging the bands every evening. You should not have a problem running out of battery power during a typical day in the park, but since these are so new, we will have to see how long they really do last. Also, usage could vary between those that use just them some of the time, and power users who are testing the limits of all the new fun features.
Please
write me back if you have any follow-up questions.
Have a Magical Vacation!Doug