Everything You Need To Know About MagicBand Plus for Disney World and Disneyland
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When planning a trip to Walt Disney World or Disneyland, MagicBand+ is one of the most exciting tools to make your vacation even more magical. Whether you’re wondering about MagicBand Plus features, how to charge it, or if it’s worth the investment, this guide has everything you need to know.
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What Does a Magic Band Do at Disney?
If you are headed to Disney soon, you might wonder what you can do with a regular MagicBand if you’re not wanting to upgrade to the newer style. Here is a list of everything Magic Bands can do:
- When you get to your hotel room on Disney property, you can unlock your door.
- You can use the MagicBand to scan into the theme parks (as long as you have a valid ticket linked).
- With the MagicBand you scan in to access your Lightning Lane reservations.
- If you want to purchase something, you can charge it to your hotel room, through your MagicBand.
- You can use the MagicBand to access your PhotoPass photos.
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What is MagicBand Plus?
MagicBand+ is the next evolution of Disney’s wearable tech, designed to enhance your park experience. It’s more than just a stylish accessory — it’s your park ticket, room key, and even your way to interact with new immersive features in the parks. With updated technology and vibrant Magic Band colors to choose from, MagicBand+ adds convenience and a bit of extra Disney magic to your trip.
MagicBand Plus Features You’ll Love
MagicBand+ includes all the basic tap features of the original MagicBand, plus color-changing lights, vibrations, and gesture recognition. At Walt Disney World, it can react during select nighttime spectaculars and shows, interact with the Disney Fab 50 Character Collections, and unlock Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters in Galaxy’s Edge.
At Disneyland, MagicBand+ works for theme park entry, Lightning Lane check-in, Disney PhotoPass, and select interactive experiences. Make sure your band is paired to the appropriate Disney app and has the latest software update before your trip so you can access all of the available features.
With all these Magic Band Plus features, it’s no surprise they’re a popular choice for Disney guests.
How Much Does MagicBand Plus Cost?
MagicBand+ pricing depends on the color or design you choose. Solid colors generally start at $34.99, most character designs cost $44.99, glitter styles cost $49.99, and some limited-release designs cost $54.99. Prices and availability can change, so check Disney Store or the current selection in your My Disney Experience account before purchasing.
Charging Your MagicBand Plus: What You Need to Know
Original MagicBands do not need to be charged. Only MagicBand+ has a rechargeable battery.
To charge a MagicBand+, snap the included six-inch USB charging cable onto the back of the band and connect it to a USB power source. Disney recommends fully charging your band before your trip and charging it every night during your vacation. If you are storing it between trips, charge it once every four to six months to help maintain the battery life.
Press the button on the back of the band to check the battery level. A flashing red light or no light means the battery is depleted, yellow means the battery is low, and green means it has a high charge. You can also check the battery level in the My Disney Experience app after pairing the band with your phone.
A fully charged MagicBand+ battery can last an estimated one to two days, but nightly charging is the easiest way to keep the lights, vibrations, and interactive experiences working throughout your trip. If the band does not begin lighting up after about 20 minutes on the charger, remove the charging cable and reconnect it, making sure you feel it snap securely into place.
If your MagicBand+ battery dies, the basic tap features can still work. You can continue using it for theme park entry, Lightning Lane check-in, your Disney Resort hotel room, purchases charged to your room, and Disney PhotoPass photographer scans. A low or depleted battery can affect the interactive lights and vibrations, software settings, and automatic linking of certain attraction photos.
How Long to Charge Magic Band Plus?
A full charge takes about one to two hours. The easiest approach is to charge it overnight at your resort or top it off during a midday break, so it is ready for the fun stuff by the time the sun goes down.
How To Tell if MagicBand Plus is Fully Charged?
When charging MagicBand Plus, you will see a pulsing light. Once that light stops pulsing and remains solid, your MagicBand Plus is fully charged and ready to go. You can also check the battery status anytime in the My Disney Experience app.
The band also uses colored lights to tell you where the battery stands.
- Flashing Red – means you should charge ASAP
- Flashing Green – indicates a fully charged battery
- Flashing Yellow – means a low battery
Magic Band Plus Charging Tips
- Make sure to fully charge your bands before your trip so they will be ready to go.
- Use the USB charging cable provided with your MagicBand+ – don’t throw them away!
- Charge your MagicBand Plus each evening in your hotel room to get the most use out of the fun, extra features.
- If you have several people in your travel party, a USB charging port with multiple inputs is a huge help when charging your Magic Bands and other electronics in your resort room.
- Don’t forget to pack a portable charger if you’re planning a long day in the parks.
Note: If the battery in your MagicBand Plus dies, all of the basic features will still work. You will just miss out on the interactions and lights.
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How to Link MagicBand Plus in the My Disney Experience App
You will need to link your Magic Bands to your My Disney Experience account and install the update before you can use your new band. Here’s the process to get everything set up:
- Press the button on the back of your MagicBand+ to power it on. Hold for 3 seconds and then release.
- Log in to the My Disney Experience app.
- Tap the three lines at the bottom right corner. Scroll until you see the box that says “MagicBands & Cards.”
- Click on the name of the person you want to link the MagicBand + to.
- Click on the “Link” button.
- Select “Tap” at the top and then click the blue button that says “Open Scanner to Link.”
- Make sure you are assigning the Magic Band Plus to the correct person. Once a band has been linked to someone, it cannot be linked to someone else.
- Hold your band close to your phone.
- Make sure that you get to the screen that shows the Bluetooth pairing is complete.
- You’ll see a screen that shows the final step and a button to click to “Update This MagicBand+.” Note: If you need to install an update, you’ll get a message letting you know the band requires 60% or more battery power to complete a software update.
- Download and install the update.
- You are able to customize some features of the Magic Band Plus after everything is set up. You can choose a custom light up theme and adjust the vibration and recognition settings.
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Pro Tips for Using MagicBand Plus in the Parks
To get the most out of your MagicBand Plus experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Sync Before You Go: Ensure your MagicBand+ is fully charged and synced to your My Disney Experience account before entering the parks.
- Plan for Interactive Activities: Make time for experiences like the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge bounty hunting or the Disney Fab 50 Quest to enjoy the interactive features fully.
- Monitor Battery Life: Use the app to check your MagicBand+ battery status throughout the day. If you’re spending a full day in the parks, bring a portable charger to avoid running out of battery.
- Customize Your Band: Consider decorating your MagicBand+ with band covers or charms available at Disney shops for a personal touch.
Magic Band Colors and Designs
One of the fun parts of choosing a MagicBand+ is the variety of colors and designs. Whether you prefer classic solid colors or intricate designs featuring beloved Disney characters, there’s a MagicBand+ for every style. New designs are frequently released, so keep an eye out for limited editions and seasonal themes.
Shop MagicBands for your next Disney vacation!
FAQ: Your MagicBand Plus Questions Answered
Got questions about MagicBand Plus? You’re not alone! Here, we’ve rounded up the most common questions to help you make the most of this handy Disney accessory.
Are Magic Bands Worth It?
This is a question many Disney guests ask. While MagicBands are not required to enjoy the parks, MagicBand Plus can add convenience and fun to your trip. It keeps your hands free while managing park tickets, Lightning Lanes, and room access. The added immersion during shows and games makes it feel more magical and with so many Magic Band colors and designs, you can find one that matches your style or favorite character.
Whether Magic Bands are worth it depends on your priorities. If you value ease of access and love interactive features, MagicBand Plus is a great investment.
How Long Does MagicBand Plus Battery Last?
A fully charged MagicBand+ typically lasts 1-3 days, depending on usage. For interactive features, frequent charging might be needed.
Can I Use MagicBand+ Without Charging?
Yes, you can still use it for basic functions like park entry and Lightning Lanes without charging. However, the interactive features require a charge.
How Do I Replace the Charging Cable?
If you lose your charging cable, replacements are available at Disney parks, resorts, and online through ShopDisney.
Can I Share My MagicBand+ With Someone Else?
No, MagicBands are linked to your personal My Disney Experience account and cannot be transferred once activated.
Do I Need a MagicBand Plus for Each Person in My Group?
Each guest will need their own MagicBand+ for personal use. However, they’re not required; you can still use the app or physical tickets if you prefer.
How Durable is MagicBand+?
MagicBand+ is designed to withstand typical wear and tear, including water resistance for use in pools and on water rides. However, avoid exposing it to extreme conditions to ensure its longevity.
Can Magic Band Plus Get Wet?
Yes. MagicBand+ is waterproof for pools and water rides, so you can keep it on while swimming, visiting the Disney water parks, riding water attractions, or getting caught in a Florida rainstorm. You do not need to remove it before swimming.
Are Magic Bands Necessary?
No, they are not! It’s just an extra accessory that makes Disney a little bit more convenient and interactive. You will use a plastic card, called a Key to the World card, or your physical park ticket to scan into your hotel room, the theme parks, or rides. You also have the option to set up Magic Mobile to use with your Apple Watch.
Does Everyone Get a Magic Band?
Disney used to give everyone a free MagicBand with the purchase of their Disney resort stay but this is no longer the case. You will need to purchase one if you want to use it during your trip.
Disney Resort hotel guests and Annual Passholders can order MagicBand+ through My Disney Experience before arrival. Current benefits include free shipping, free personalization, a custom shipping box, and having the band automatically linked to your MyDisney profiles. Resort guests should place their order at least six days before arrival to receive these pre-arrival benefits.
How Much Does MagicBand+ Cost?
The prices vary based on the different Magic Band colors and designs available. Solid colors will be the least expensive and special designs or limited editions will be more. You can expect to pay somewhere between $35 – $55 dollars for one Magic Band Plus.
Can You Use Magic Band Plus at Disneyland?
Yes, MagicBand+ works at Disneyland Resort. You can use it to enter the theme parks with valid admission, check in at Lightning Lane entrances, link Disney PhotoPass photos, and experience select interactive moments throughout the parks. Original MagicBands do not work at Disneyland.
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MagicBand + on Disney Cruise Line
A Walt Disney World or Disneyland MagicBand+ can also be used as a DisneyBand+ on select Disney Cruise Line sailings across the fleet. The exception is the Disney Adventure, which does not use DisneyBand+.
You will be able to make your port arrival experience easier, unlock your stateroom door, charge additional food and beverage items not included in your cruise fare, use in the kid’s clubs instead of the Oceaneer Club band, link onboard photographs, and interact in ways similar to Disney World and Disneyland.
Is MagicBand+ Right for Your Trip?
MagicBand+ is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to enhance their Disney trip with convenience and a touch of magic. From its interactive features to the variety of Magic Band colors, there’s something for everyone. If you’re all about convenience and creating memorable moments, then yes, Magic Bands are worth it. Happy travels and may your next Disney adventure be as magical as ever!
Read More:
- How to Use the My Disney Experience App
- Movies to Watch Before Your Disney Vacation
- Walt Disney World Resort Categories
- Your Disney World Vacation Planning Timeline
- Ultimate Disney Packing List
What is a Magic Band at Walt Disney World?
[…] new Magic Band Plus was released during the summer of 2022. Find out more about the fun […]
Jen W
Thank you the detailed instructions on setting up our Magic Bands!! Your directions were perfect and much better than the directions on the actual Disney app!! I really thought my bands were defective until I found you blog!! I greatly appreciate you!!
Devine Fairytale
Jen WGlad it was helpful!