If you’ve recently booked a Disney World or Disneyland vacation, you might have some MagicBand questions. Never fear; this article contains everything you need to know about MagicBands! Read to the end for details on our MagicBand+ giveaway!
What Is a MagicBand?
Introduced in 2013, MagicBands eliminated the need to carry park tickets, room keycards, and wallets by linking all of that information into the technology in a wearable band. When the band is linked to a My Disney Experience account, guests tap their band to touch points to enter the parks, unlock the resort room, pay for purchases, scan in for Lightning Lanes, and connect PhotoPass images to the account. MagicBand 2.0 has the same functionality as the original MagicBands but with added comfort and flexibility as the central “puck” can be removed and worn on a lanyard or keychain.
In July 2022, Disney released the next generation of MagicBand: MagicBand+. This new version unlocks interactive experiences throughout the parks. It is also rechargeable, eliminating the need to replace the band for future trips.
Until now, MagicBands have only been used at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Beginning in 2022, Disneyland will utilize the bands as well.
Do I Need a MagicBand?
MagicBands are NOT required. Guests can request a Key to the World card at check-in, which is also used as a park ticket, room key, Lightning Lane access, and PhotoPass card. Alternatively, the My Disney Experience app to access these features. All dining and merchandise locations on Disney property accept other methods of payment.
While they’re not required, MagicBands provide convenience:
- They are waterproof, so guests don’t need to worry about their phones or wallet at pools and waterparks.
- Kids love to unlock the room with their bands, and if they happen to wander off, Cast Members can scan their band and quickly reunite you.
- Even if a MagicBand is lost, your information is secure.
However, you will need a MagicBand+ to unlock interactive experiences throughout the parks. So, if you want to be a bounty hunter in Batuu or embark on the Disney Fab 50 Quest, you will need to upgrade to the new MagicBand+.
Bounty Hunting with MagicBand+ Photos courtesy of FTJ by Rachel Burch
How Do I Get a MagicBand?
Resort guests with an upcoming reservation can order bands at discounted pre-arrival prices:
- MagicBand+ Solid $24.99 ($34.99 retail price)
- MagicBand+ Designs $34.99 ($44.99 retail price)
- MagicBand 2.0 Solid $10.00 ($19.99 retail price)
- MagicBand 2.0 Designs $20.00 ($34.99 retail price)
After booking a vacation package, log into My Disney Experience and visit the MagicBands and Cards section of the website. Once there, select or decline a MagicBand for each party member. Also, make sure to order your MagicBand at least 30 days before arrival to allow shipping time. If guests purchase MagicBands after arrival, they will pay the retail price.
For those who are not Walt Disney resort guests, Magic bands can be purchased online via shopdisney.com or at various retailers once they arrive.
MagicBand+ Giveaway!!
Fairytale Journeys Travel will give three lucky readers a brand new MagicBand+! To enter:
- Share this article on your social media using the buttons below
- Follow Fairytale Journeys Travel on Facebook
- Comment on the giveaway post telling us which MagicBand is your favorite
Winners will be drawn on September 1, 2022 and will be announced on the Fairytale Journeys Travel Facebook page.
Sarah is from Northeastern Ohio where she juggles raising four small children, a custom quilt business, never-ending DIY projects, and travelling as often as possible. Sarah has been with Fairytale Journeys as a Travel Consultant since 2021. She loves helping clients have the best possible travel experience no matter the destination. She also co-hosts To Disney and Beyond: A Travel Podcast with a fellow FTJ agent.