Welcome to planDisney, Meghan!
Planning a Disney trip with a group can be a little overwhelming, right? Trying to coordinate hotel check-ins and Lightning Lane selections can leave one's head spinning like a
Mad Tea Party teacup. If your party has different arrival days, it's important to understand how Disney's advance booking rules work. Knowing who can book what, and when, can save a lot of stress, and help you make the most of your park days. So let's get down to business...
Guests staying at
Disney Resort hotels and other select properties can
purchase Lightning Lane passes starting 7 days before their first day of check-in. That means if some members of your group are arriving later, the Guests with earlier check-ins cannot make Lightning Lane selections for the entire party until each Guest is eligible based on their own check-in date. Each Guest's ability to reserve Lightning Lane experiences is tied to their individual hotel reservation and valid park admission. So, for a group with staggered arrivals, Lightning Lane reservations will need to be made in segments according to each person's 7-day window. Guests not staying at eligible hotels can purchase passes starting 3 days before each theme park visit.
I hope that's helpful, Meghan. I know that's not the answer you were hoping for, but I trust the clarity will help you plan your upcoming trip accordingly. If you have any more questions, you have a friend in me.
Mike