Jennifer,
Thanks for asking your question to planDisney!
While the new
MagicBand+ bands do require charging, the standard MagicBand bands do not. They have an internal battery, which cannot be replaced, but will have more than enough juice for your visit! Typically the battery in those bands can last a year or two.
Why do the new bands need to be charged, while the others do not? Most of the features of a MagicBand will work, regardless of model. But the new MagicBand+ bands do have a few activities that only work with that newer model, and they also use both lights and haptics (vibrations), all of which simply require more battery power. Activities like the
Batuu Bounty Hunters quest at
Disney's Hollywood Studios come to mind. It is a lot of fun, searching for bad guys in your own Star Wars adventure!
Will your MagicBand+ require charging during your day in the parks? The jury is still out, but when I visit the parks with a long day planned, I already had a reserve battery for my iPhone in my pocket. If you use a lot of the active features, you might need a boost, so if you can be ready with a charger, that would be handy.
BONUS TIP #1The MagicBand+ charging cable uses a USB-A plug. Most Disney Resort Hotels have appropriate outlets for these chargers, but it is worth checking if you have a way to plug it in at night.
BONUS TIP #2While there are some great features to the MagicBand+ that you cannot enjoy with an original version MagicBand, most of the key features remain intact. Key less room entry, charging capabilities, ticket media access, they are all still in there!
Please feel free to
write me back directly if you have any follow-up questions.
Have a Magical Vacation!Doug