Jambo Maggie!
Welcome to planDisney. I'm visiting right around the same time as you and I'm
so excited to be in final countdown mode! Let's go through all the details so you're prepared to enjoy your arrival day at
Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park without delay.
I haven't stayed at the
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel yet, but I have been a guest at its sister property the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel. I love the location of these resorts and that
fantastic shared pool. You're sure to feel like you've been transported to an oasis soaking up the sunshine while relaxing on a poolside lounger. During my last stay at the Dolphin, I dropped my luggage off with Bell Services to enjoy a few extra hours of fun before flying home. They were more than happy to hang on to my bags, and I would expect them to do the same on your arrival day. I recommend bringing your bags there first as you won't be able to enter Disney's Animal Kingdom with luggage or store it there.
Now, as far as tickets there shouldn't be any additional activation required as long as you've
linked them to your My Disney Experience Account. I also recommend linking your resort details to take advantage of perks like
Early Theme Park Entry. Once linked, your tickets should be viewable in the My Disney Experience Mobile App and display the days remaining and the valid dates. To confirm, navigate to the feature menu (≡) at the bottom right of your app then click the "My Tickets & Passes" on the following screen. If you have a MagicBand or
MagicBand+ linked to your account you can use that to enter the parks. If not, have that screen available to scan upon entering and a Cast Member should be able to issue you a physical ticket card to use during the remainder of your trip.
I'd also like to mention that theme park reservations are no longer required for date-based tickets. However, if you'll be visiting using another
admission type such as an Annual Pass, Disney Military Salute Ticket, or others mentioned here you will need to secure reservations for each day you plan to visit.
I hope this helped, Maggie. If we can answer any additional questions please don't hesitate to come back and see us again. Be sure to say hello to
baby Corra if you see her on
Kilimanjaro Safaris. I'm crossing my fingers my family will be able to spot her during our ride.
Magic and memories,
Amy