MagicBand+ How Does it Work and Does Your Toddler Need One Too?
MagicBand+ is a rechargeable, waterproof wristband that was created to improve guests’ experiences at Walt Disney World. Let’s explore some of the features MagicBand+ has to offer and we’ll also share our top reasons why we consider MagicBand+ a must buy if you’re traveling to Walt Disney World.
Overview
In 2013, Disney introduced the original MagicBand. Since its debut, there have been a number of updates and improvements to the original design, culminating with the release of MagicBand+ in 2022.
Features
Enter the Disney Theme Parks
In addition to a theme park reservation and valid admission, you can utilize your MagicBand+ as a hands-free way to enter the Disney theme parks. Link your ticket or Annual Pass to your MagicBand+ and hold it up to one of the touchpoints at the park entrance and you’re in!
Enter your Walt Disney World Hotel Room
Link your hotel reservation to your MagicBand+ through the My Disney Experience Mobile App, and there will be no need for an additional room key. Your hotel room door will feature a touchpoint that your MagicBand+ will unlock.
Make Purchases
MagicBand+ can be utilized to purchase food and merchandise in the theme parks and at your Walt Disney World Hotel. Link a payment card to your band, create a 4 digit PIN, and enjoy a quick and easy hands-free way to buy your favorite Disney souvenirs and treats!
Exciting Interactions
Disney has created some exciting interactive elements that can be unlocked with your MagicBand+. Lights and vibrations will sync with shows; character statues will talk or play music; it's small touches that can have a big impact on your little one’s time in the parks.
Disney Cruise Line Compatible
Disney has spent the past year working to integrate the technology of MagicBand+ (referred to as DisneyBand+ on the cruises) to all of it’s current ships. As of August 2024, DisneyBand+ is available for select sailings on the following ships: Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic, Disney Dream, and the Disney Wonder, Visit the Disney Cruise Line site to confirm if your itinerary is eligible.
Much like using MagicBand+ at the theme parks and hotels, DisneyBand+ will allow for a more efficient and hands-free boarding process, entry into your room, making purchases while on board and interacting with various elements in the shows, restaurants and more.
My family and I recently booked our first Disney Cruise and I am very excited to be able to utilize our MagicBand+ while on board!
Additional Information
Pricing
Pricing can vary. On average, you can expect to pay between $30 to $65. Limited Edition and special occasion bands will cost more.
Sizing
MagicBand+ comes in only one size that will fit most adult wrists. There is an inner band that can be removed to better fit smaller wrists. However, it is worth noting that once the inner band is removed, it cannot be reattached.
Charging
MagicBand+ has a rechargeable battery. When you purchase your band, it will come with a charger and cable. Even if the battery is low, you will still be able to utilize the band for things like entering the park, scanning for lightning lane entrance onto rides and to get into your hotel room. The interactive features mentioned above are the ones that will stop working without any battery.
Overall Thoughts: Is It Worth Getting MagicBand+ For Your Toddler?
My husband and I are big fans of using MagicBand+ when we bring our kids to Disney and would definitely recommend purchasing one for each member of the family (Tots under 3 don’t need a ticket or a MagicBand+).
Although pricing for the bands is somewhat high, especially if there are a lot of members in your travel party, I do believe that it is worth purchasing, if for no other reason than the convenience of being hands-free. Even as a seasoned pro when visiting the parks, as a busy mom to two little tots, I’m never holding fewer than 5 things and at least one child at any given time. MagicBand+ has been a life saver!
One final thought worth mentioning, is that the bands are not super secure. My 11 month old baby is able to pull mine off my wrist by himself. If you do let your tots wear their MagicBand+, be sure to check regularly it hasn’t come off! My almost 4 year old toddler has a band of his own, but does not like to wear it just yet. Typically, when we go to the parks, I wear his on one wrist and mine on the other.
MagicBand+ can be purchased from the Disney Store online as well as at each of the Walt Disney World theme parks, hotels, and Disney Springs!