Time for Online Check-In for Your Disney Trip: Is It Right for You?
It’s almost time to kick off your Disney adventure! If you’re staying at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, online check-in lets you get straight to the fun by skipping the front desk altogether. With a quick, simple process, online check-in can help you avoid lines, get settled faster, and enjoy more of your Disney vacation time.
Here’s everything you need to know to decide if online check-in is best for you!
Why Use Online Check-In?
Skip the Lines & Save Time
Online Resort Check-In means you can skip the front desk, leaving you with more time to explore, dine, or even head to a theme park. Once you check in online, you’ll receive a text notification when your room is ready, so you can start enjoying your resort or hit the parks without any delay.
Use Luggage Services if Your Room isn’t Ready Yet
Arriving at your resort and ready to start the day? Just drop off your bags in your room or with Bell Services and hop on Disney’s complimentary transportation to any park. It’s an easy way to get right into the Disney spirit, especially if you want to make the most of your arrival day.
When to Skip Online Check-In
The Disney Welcome Experience
If this is your first visit to Walt Disney World or if you love those warm Disney Cast Member welcomes, checking in at the front desk is a chance to ask questions and learn about the resort’s amenities. Cast Members can point out activities you may not know about, give insider tips, and answer questions, making it a more personal experience.
If You Have Room Requests
If you’ve made specific room requests (like wanting a certain view or location), you will want to check in with a Cast Member at the front desk rather than online. During online check-in, your arrival time often takes priority over room requests, so if these are high on your list, speaking to someone in person is the best approach. This is also a good time to add multiple credit cards to your account if needed.
How to Complete Online Check-In:
Ready to go ahead with online check-in? Here’s how to do it:
Open My Disney Experience: Log into the My Disney Experience website or app and visit the “Future Plans” section (your check-in option may also show up on the app home screen).
Select “Start Check-In”: This will take you to your reservation page, where you can confirm and update details.
Update Your Arrival Time: Let Disney know when to expect you. This can help prioritize your check-in process.
Provide Contact Info: Make sure your email and phone number are up-to-date so Disney can notify you as soon as your room is ready.
Add a Payment Method: Add a card on file for room charges, if desired.
Set PINs for Your Account: If you’re using MagicBands, set up PINs for added convenience.
Room Location Requests: Set any room location preferences available.
Final Thoughts
Online check-in is all about maximizing your time and getting right into the Disney magic as soon as possible. It’s quick, easy, and helps you avoid lines at the front desk. But if you want the personal touch of a Cast Member welcome, or you have special requests for your room, visiting the front desk might be worth it.
Whether you choose to check in online or in person, Disney’s incredible team will ensure your stay is magical from start to finish. Let the countdown begin! 🌟