Learn all about Disney Magic Bands! Find out everything you need to know about how they work and what they do at Disney World.
All the cool kids are posting their Disney Magic Bands before their trips, but what are they? What do they do? How do they work? Consider this your Magic: 101. Here is everything you need to know about Disney Magic Bands, yes, the new 2.0 version.
What are Disney Magic Bands?
They are these cute watch looking devices that Walt Disney World Florida guests put on their arm that can be used in place of tickets and more around the parks. They use RF frequency technology to send a signal to the necessary equipment. RF is a common technology found in everything from video game controllers to keyless car entry.
How to Get a Disney Magic Band?
There are a few ways to get a magic band; all of them are pretty straight forward.
- Book a stay at an official Disney World Resort. Magic Bands will be mailed to every guest staying at a Disney World Resort.
- Buy an Annual Pass. Once your pass is activated, you will be able to order your Magic Bands through the My Disney Experience account. Plan, they can take up to 10 business days to receive in the mail.
- Purchase a Magic Band. You can do so in retail locations inside the parks, hotels, or at Disney Springs.
Magic Band Features
One Size Fits all
Yes, these are one size fits all. If you have a small wrist or it is for a child, there is a way that you can remove the grey part of the band, so it fits better. Just like magic!
Name on Back
When you order your bands, they ask for the name of the person that it will belong to for personalization. You can choose your actual name or a nickname. Whatever you want it will be engraved in the back of the band. This feature is perfect if more than one person in your family has the same color!
Battery Life
Disney Magic Bands are said to have a battery life of about two years. So, you should be good to go. If you have any issues with your band, see a cast member for assistance.
Custom Bands
When you order your bands, you have the option to upgrade to unique custom bands. As always, you can pick any color for free, but if you would like a character band or other customization, there is an up-charge. You can even purchase bands in the Disney Store and at places around the park if you decide to upgrade later.
If you aren't into having a band on your wrist, you can even upgrade to a lanyard dongle that holds your Magic Band too!
Magic Band Sliders
When our Magic Bands arrived, they came with Passholder Magic Band Sliders. I was confused about what they were for. Consider me enlightened. Not only are they fun to decorate your band with, but they serve a functional purpose too.
Once your band is on your wrist, slide the slider to the point where the bands snap together or overlap. This is an extra layer of security to ensure your band doesn't accidentally pop off while you are having fun.
Waterproof
Are magic bands waterproof? The answer is yes. While you are staying at Disney World there is no reason to take your Magic Band off...unless you want to. They are fully waterproof and can handle Splash Mountain like the best of us.
What Can Magic Bands Do?
Now that you know all about the Magic Band itself, what does it do? That is a great question. They are capable of much more than most people expect.
Park Entry
First and foremost, they act as your ticket. When you visit the parks, they will scan your Magic Band and check your ID. You will then scan your finger (remember to use the same one later). This is your ID verification that it is you going into the parks. After the initial entry, you should only need. Your Magic Band and fingerprint. Although, you should always have your ID and Ticket handy just in case of an unforeseen issue.
FastPass +
This is one of my favorite uses. When you schedule your FastPass+ it is tied to your My Disney Experience Account. Which means it is also accessible by Magic Band. Just wave your Magic Band when you arrive at your scheduled attraction and you are cleared for fun!
On Property Room Key
The reason Walt Disney World Resort Guests are given Magic Bands is that they are used for your on-property room key! Your room info is saved to your My Disney Experience Account, and it allows you to use your band to get into your room, the pool, and any amenities tied with your resort.
Room Charging
If you are staying at a Walt Disney World Resort, you can also activate room charging with your Magic Band. For your safety, you will set up a four digit PIN to be used when charging to your room. This is super convenient when you are vacationing with your family. At this time, charging with your band is only available to guests staying at the Resort.
Photo Pass
The photographers staged all over Disney, and all of the ride cameras can scan your Magic Band, so your photos go right on your account. In fact, the rides sometimes auto"magically" know it is you. This is just another fun feature and a cool way that your Magic Band ties in with your My Disney Experience account.
Special On Property Magic
It wouldn't be Disney without a little extra Magic sprinkled in. While your Magic Band is meant for tickets, and more that doesn't mean that Disney can't use the same technology for a little fun. When you are around the parks, watch and listen for small details like signs displaying your name, etc. You may be surprised by what you see.
Are Magic Bands Reusable?
YES! Magic Bands are reusable. They are tied to your My Disney Experience account and can be used anytime you visit the parks.
What to Do if you lose your Magic Band
If you lose your Magic Band, the first thing you want to do is log in to your My Disney Experience account and deactivate it. The next thing is to visit guest services. They will assist you in replacing your band. The first time is typically free while every time after that is a charge of $10.
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I am Amanda. Mom to 3 wonderful kids & lots of furbabies. Plus wife to my hubby, David, for 20 years (gosh that makes me sound old). In our house we love to get outside, have family fun, and enjoy all Florida has to offer (Hey, Universal!) We do all of that with a few shortcuts.
Questions? Comments?