Hi there, Renee! Welcome to
planDisney, and thank you so much for reaching out with this question. It's a really common situation, and I'm glad you asked before making any changes. When it comes to room occupancy at
Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Disney has to follow very strict safety and fire code regulations, which is why this can feel a little limiting at first glance.
Unfortunately, there isn't a way to officially add a Guest to your reservation for just one night in advance. If you try to modify the reservation online or over the phone, the system will require that extra person to be added for the entire length of your stay, not just the final night. That's simply how the booking structure works when changes are made ahead of time.
That said, I do want to be honest with you and share something from personal experience. I've been in a very similar situation before, and on occasion I've had a friend stay over for just one night. I stopped by the Front Desk at my Disney Resorts Collection hotel as soon as my Guest arrived, and I immediately let a Cast Member know exactly what was going on and that I was planning on having someone stay with me for that one night.
Walt Disney World takes it very seriously knowing who is staying in each room at any given time, and that's why it's so important to communicate directly with them instead of assuming it's okay. Once they're aware, they can note the reservation, make any necessary adjustments, and let you know whether this will be allowed in your specific case. Please keep in mind that approval for a one-night overnight Guest is completely at Disney's discretion. Sometimes they're able to accommodate it, and sometimes they're not, depending on room type, resort, and overall occupancy.
Renee, the key takeaway here is transparency. As long as you're upfront with the Front Desk, you're doing things the right way and giving yourself the best possible chance for a smooth experience. I hope everything works out perfectly and that you enjoy those last magical moments together before heading home.
Warm hugs,
Ana Paula