Hi there, Steven, and welcome to planDisney! I couldn't be happier that you're here with this great question about your Walt Disney World Resort vacation! It will be here in just a few short days and you must be getting so excited!
Steven, I have some good news for you! You'll be glad to hear that you are not required to have a MagicBand+ for Disney Theme Park entry or Lightning Lane entry. If you choose not to purchase a MagicBand+, Hakuna Matata - no worries! While I choose to use a MagicBand+, it's more for the convenience and the fun features. There are many ways to access the magic, including virtual and physical options.
Here's what you need to do: head to the
My Disney Experience Mobile App, click the bottom right icon for the main menu, and then click the top left icon that says My Tickets and Passes. Your tickets should show there, and you'll see an option underneath that says Save to Wallet. This allows you to save your ticket to the wallet of your smartphone, just like you would with a boarding pass or credit card. When you get to the tapstile, just open up your wallet and tap your phone. You can also do this for any members of your party whose profiles you manage. This service is called
Disney MagicMobile Service and it's complimentary! This will also allow you to tap in for your Lightning Lane selections.
You might also consider stopping by the Front Desk of your Disney Resorts Collection hotel or Guest Services at the park to get a physical
Key to the World card that will have your ticket stored on it. You'll only need one card for your stay, not one per day. Some Guests choose to wear a lanyard to store their cards inside for easy access. I recommend writing your name on the card so you can tell it apart from others.
Steven, if you choose to purchase a
MagicBand+ during your vacation, a helpful Cast Member will be thrilled to assist you in setting it up and linking it to your profile. Not only is it a fun accessory, but there are exciting interactive ways to use it throughout the parks.
I hope this is helpful to you as you continue to count down to your arrival! Please stop back by planDisney with any other questions you have about your vacation!
See you real soon!
Jennifer