Hi Brandie,
You must be so excited for your upcoming vacation! I suggest that you try
online check-in. You can do it 10 days prior to your arrival. It doesn't guarantee that you'll be able to get into your room early, but it gives the resort staff notice of your arrival. There have been times that we've arrived at 10:00 a.m., and our room has been ready. There have also been times that we've had to wait until regular check-in, especially if we're traveling at a busy time of year. Regardless, your luggage won't arrive for a few hours after you do, so you'll want to pack a few essentials in your carry on:
- change of clothes - especially if you are traveling from colder climates
- bathing suit & sunscreen (travel size)
- small toiletry kit - whatever you bring needs to meet TSA guidelines
These are some extras that will help you be more comfortable while you wait for your room to be ready and luggage to arrive. You'll still be able to go swimming or hang out in a park in comfort. I assume that you also plan on having items like your camera, phone, and tickets (if purchased ahead of time). Bell services will gladly store your carry on luggage and deliver it to your room.
As far as filling time, if you're planning on going to the parks on your
arrival day, you can still do that. Cast members at the resort will
give you your park tickets and take down your phone number. They'll
send a text letting you know when you can head to your room.
Downtown Disney is a great place to shop, eat lunch and explore a bit. You could even try bowling at the new Splitsville. Maybe mini-golf is more your style; Disney's Winter Summerland Golf Course is easy to get to by hopping on a bus to Blizzard Beach.
Hope this helps. Have a magical vacation!