It’s no secret that MagicBands have become an integral part of Disney World vacations over the last decade+. They can serve as room keys, payment methods, entry tickets, be used to check-in for Lightning Lanes, connect with Photopass, and react to select Disney theme park attractions with “lighting effects and gesture recognition”, and they’re available in a slew of cool designs!

MagicBand+

However, before you pick out your next MagicBand, there are some rules you need to be aware of!

Basic MagicBands are NOT Free Anymore

Guests who haven’t been to Walt Disney World in a while may be shocked to find out that the most basic MagicBands — which used to be included with Disney hotel stays — are no longer “free.” They aren’t even discounted anymore…

While this has been the case for quite some time, going by emails and Facebook comments we receive, many fans are still mad about it. In other words, don’t expect them to come in the mail in the weeks before your visit.

MagicBand+

Price Differences are Mainly Aesthetic

There are various price levels of MagicBand+ offerings, with basic bands going for around $35, more decorated bands with character or park iconography going for around $45, and limited/anniversary celebration bands priced at $50 and up. However, it’s important to note that from a functionality standpoint, all these MagicBand+ variants are created equal.

MagicBand+

While the designs are aesthetically pleasing, and we’d always recommend picking up a collectible representing a franchise or ride you care deeply about, the basic bands will fulfill all the same operational needs as, say, A Goofy Movie anniversary band. 

©Disney

They Need to be Charged

To access the full functionality of the bands, they need to be charged, which can sometimes lead to a shortage of electrical outlets in a family hotel room. However, there’s a charger for that.

MultiCharger for MagicBand+

This lightweight and travel-friendly USB-A multi-charger is designed specifically for charging up to 4 MagicBand+ devices simultaneously, or a smartphone and 3 MagicBand+ bands, making it perfect for “hotel rooms with limited outlets, this multi-charger allows you to charge all your MagicBand+ devices and phones using just one outlet, freeing up space for other electronics during your Disney vacation. The charger includes USB-A and USB-C plugs and 4 MagicBand Protectors!

SHOP HERE

Losing a Band Can Cost You Time and Money

Of course, wearing your MagicBand a bit looser runs a risk of it potentially falling off in the park – or even worse, on a ride! Now, there is a chance that Disney may be able to track your MagicBand, which is going to take a big chunk of time out of your day, and if it can’t be found, you’ll likely need to pay for a replacement. However, there is a way to avoid losing them altogether:

©Amazon

These silicone locks will keep your MagicBand+ affixed properly even if you wear it loosely.

SHOP HERE

MagicBands are a major part of any Walt Disney World vacation, but there are some things to keep in mind before you head to Disney World. Stay tuned to DFB for more on visiting the “Most Magical place on Earth.”?

Are you a MagicBand fan? Let us know in the comments below.