Mom and Child wearing Magic Bands
  • On Jan 1, 2023
    Linda from KS Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Traveling to Disney World in July 2023. We have 5 adults & 4 children, 2 11 year olds, a 9 year old & a 7 year old. It appears there are 2 types, a Magic Band & a Magic Band +. Which is the better & it says 8 & up for the +. Thanks

    Hey there Linda!

    It sounds like you are already in full planning mode for your July trip, and if you're anything like me you know that planning is one of the most fun parts of the vacation process.

    I'm glad you asked about the two types of MagicBands available because they are a surefire way to enhance your entire Walt Disney World Resort vacation experience. Let's compare the features for both and help you make a decision.

    Not only are both MagicBand and MagicBand+ waterproof for swimming and water rides, but they are also fully adjustable to fit both adult and child wrist sizes. You'll notice a removable outer section on each which will reduce the number of extra sizing holes to suit smaller wrists. My 9-year-old has no problem finding an adequate fit for her favorite color band once that outer section is removed, and she's been wearing them comfortably for a few years now. In terms of sizing, I don't think you can go wrong with either option, even for your 7-year-old.

    Did you know that both MagicBand and MagicBand+ can also be used to unlock your resort room door if you'll be staying at a Disney Resort hotel? In fact, you may even be able to purchase them at a discounted rate if you have a room reservation linked to your My Disney Experience App. You can also use them to link your tickets for entry into the parks each day, access any Lightning Lane experiences you may have reserved, and even quickly add Disney PhotoPass pictures to your My Disney Experience account. My favorite feature is the ability to charge food and merchandise purchased in the parks directly to the card on file for your Disney Resort hotel room. It's the perfect hands-free way to go about your day!

    There are some key differences between MagicBand and MagicBand+ that I'd like to share. First, MagicBand+ comes with a rechargeable battery and cord. You'll need to fully charge them before initial use and make sure they are properly linked to your My Disney Experience App for each member of your travel party. Don't worry, the setup process is pretty simple once you get started, and there's plenty of support available if you need extra guidance.

    Second,  MagicBand+ allows for a ton of interactive fun throughout the parks! Watch in amazement as your bands light up in sync with nighttime entertainment. The colors will glow and change to coordinate with fireworks and you'll even notice some haptic vibrations to accompany the shows as well as some of your favorite attractions. My kids also had a blast using their MagicBand+ to interact with the Disney Fab 50 Character statues displayed around the parks. This special feature is available for the 50th Anniversary Celebration and may be subject to change when the celebration ends on March 31, 2023.

    I hope this helps you decide which option works best for your upcoming trip.

    Have a most magical vacation!
    Amy C.

thumbnail image for Amy

Meet the Panelist: Amy, North Carolina

Hi, I'm Amy- a proud wife, mom, and Disney adult. I'm a natural planner with a flair for the creative, always looking for ways to add a little magical sparkle to our family's day-to-day happenings and once-in-a lifetime moments. You'll find me and my crew visiting the parks from rope drop to close and packing in as much magic as possible to each day of our Walt Disney World Resort vacation. From dining to photo spots and all the details in between, you've got a friend in me! Learn More About Amy

Related Video

  • thumbnail image for Technology | planDisney Podcast – Episode 8

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please sign in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.