If you’re deep in the throes of planning a visit to Walt Disney World, you’re probably hearing about MagicBands! MagicBands are a handy tool to keep track of park tickets, your room key (if you’re staying on property), Genie+ redemption, and more!
MagicBands are no longer given complimentary to Disney resort guests, but they can be purchased for a discounted price.
What are MagicBands?
MagicBands, to put it simply, are bracelets. Inside is a little “puck” with a Mickey icon. The puck can be taken out and put into a device called a MagicKeeper, which is a keychain that can be worn on a lanyard or attached to a bag, if you prefer. MagicBands are waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about getting them soaked on Splash Mountain!
Are MagicBands Free?
Unfortunately, not anymore – they used to be included with Disney resort stays. Disney resort guests can purchase them for a discounted price. Premium MagicBands are also available for purchase. The Premium MagicBands are constantly changing depending on inventory, but they generally feature your favorite Disney characters and attractions! Other MagicBands are available for purchase through ShopDisney, and on site at Walt Disney World. Sometimes Limited Edition MagicBands are released to celebrate a special anniversary, and they have become collector’s items!
What do MagicBands do?
MagicBands can be used for a variety of things!
On Property Guests
- Unlock your room.
- Enter the theme parks.
- Redeem Genie+ selections.
- Link photos to your account.
- Charge to your room.
- Redeem credits on the dining plan. NOTE: Dining plans are currently discontinued due to COVID restrictions.
Off Property Guests
- Enter the theme parks.
- Redeem Genie+ selections.
- Link photos to your account.
If you purchase the new MagicBand+, there are additional features – use it to participate in an interactive game in Galaxy’s edge, interact with the 50th Anniversary Golden Statues, and watch it light up in sync with nighttime shows!
Should I Get a MagicBand if I’m not Staying on Property?
In my opinion, YES! Especially for longer stays. It is so convenient to not have to pull out a wallet to get your park ticket when you’re entering the park or redeeming a Genie+ selection. Plus, it’s really fun to show off your Disney Style with a MagicBand that matches your outfit! The standard MagicBands are also pretty affordable. They make for great souvenirs, and with a battery life that lasts about 2 years, they can be reused on future trips. I have also seen some families include MagicBands as part of a gift when they surprise their kids with a trip to Walt Disney World. What a great idea, right?
MagicBand vs. MagicBand+
MagicBand+ is the newest generation of MagicBands to come to the parks. In fact, it’s the only MagicBand compatible at the Disneyland Resort. There is some additional interactivity offered by the MagicBand+, such as vibrations and lighting effects, triggered by certain actions in the parks. For example, take your MagicBand+ to Fantasmic! and enjoy the fun extras. A MagicBand+ is definitely not necessary – a regular MagicBand will do everything you need to access the parks and Genie+ selections. It’s just a bit of an upgrade. Another difference is that the MagicBand+ is rechargeable, and a downside is that it needs to be recharged fairly frequently in order to get full use of its interactive features. However, if it dies, rest assured you’ll still be able to get into the park and do all of the necessities – you’ll just miss out on the lights & vibrations until you charge it up again.
