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If you’re planning a magical trip to a Disney park, you’ve probably heard of MagicBands. These handy bands are loaded with features that can elevate your vacation experience from start to finish. To help you navigate the world of MagicBands, I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and supplied detailed answers to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.

1. What Exactly is a MagicBand?
A MagicBand is a wristband that includes an RFID sensor that links to your Disney account. It combines various functionalities, such as park entry, Genie+ reservations, PhotoPass integration, and even payment options. If you are staying on Disney property, it can also act as the key to your room.

2. What’s the difference between MagicBand and MagicBand Plus? A MagicBand Plus has all of the functionality of a MagicBand but will also give you some additional features. The MagicBand Plus is slightly larger than the standard MagicBand and has a center area that will light up. This light up area will interact with different rides and shows in the park. It will feature flashing colors that match the attraction or show that you’re watching. The band will also interact with the 50th anniversary statues and cause them to make sounds and it will also allow you to play a game in Galaxy’s Edge. This feature can be very fun for kids. I will warn you that for the lights and interaction to work the MagicBand Plus must be charged. The band comes with the special charger that you will need for it. The standard functionality like allowing you to scan into the parks will still work even if the band is not charged. The MagicBand plus will cost $10-$20 more than the standard MagicBand. Personally, I would lean towards just picking the design you like the best and not basing your decision on the features of the MagicBand Plus.

3. How Do I Get a MagicBand?
If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, a MagicBand will be available for you to purchase ahead of your trip. There will be multiple options available for you to choose from. You can customize and order your MagicBand through My Disney Experience. If you do not care for any of the options available here, you can also check Shop Disney or wait and purchase a MagicBand within the parks or at your resort gift shop. The variety of bands is usually much larger in the parks. Guests not staying at a Disney Resort can purchase MagicBands at select locations within the parks. I would strongly advise against purchasing MagicBands through a non-Disney vendor.

4. How Do I Link My MagicBand?
You will need to link your MagicBand to your My Disney Experience account. This process is very simple and can easily be done during your park day if you need to link a new band. I would recommend doing this through the app on your phone. In the app, click the hamburger icon. From this screen, you will find an option that says MagicBands and more. Open this page and you should see all of the members of your travel party. You will select the individual you want to add a MagicBand to. Then you will have the option of either holding the MagicBand near the phone for paring or scanning the back of the band with your phone’s camera. You will need to make sure that your phone’s Bluetooth is on for pairing. If for some reason you aren’t able to get your MagicBand to pair, see a cast member and they should be able to help.

5. Can I Customize My Magic Band?
Absolutely! You can choose the color of your Magic Band and even have your name printed on the inside. Customization options may vary, so make sure to explore your choices during the ordering process. Other ways that you can make your MagicBands more personal are by finding a theme or character that means something to you. For example, I love coffee and the color purple, and I was thrilled to find a MagicBand that was lavender and featured Minnie drinking coffee. I just had to have it! Can’t find a MagicBand that fits what you’re into? Check Etsy or Amazon and you may be able to find an overlay themed to something you love like this one for Beauty and the Beast.

5. Are MagicBands Waterproof?
Yes, Magic Bands are designed to be water-resistant. You can wear them while enjoying water rides, splashing around in the pools, and even those pop-up Florida showers won’t hurt them.

6. How Do I Use My Magic Band for Park Entry?
Simply touch your MagicBand to the Mickey icon on the touchpoints at park entrances. This quick and easy process eliminates the need for traditional paper tickets and speeds up your entry into the park.

7. What is Genie+ and How Do I Use It with My Magic Band?
Genie+ is Disney’s virtual reservation system for attractions, entertainment, and character meet-and-greets. Your My Disney Experience account will house all of your Genie+ Lightning Lane (LL) reservations and will link them to your MagicBand. When you arrive at the Lightning Lane entrance you will scan your band just like you did for park entry and the reader will know you have a LL reservation. Want to know more about Genie+ and Lightning Lanes? Check out this post for all the basics you need to know. Wondering if Genie+ can really save you time? Click here to see just how much I’ve been able to save.

8. Can I Use My Magic Band to Make Purchases?
If you are staying at a Disney resort, you can make purchases with your MagicBand. Your band basically links to the credit card on your room and makes charges to your room. If you are not staying on property, this is not an option.

9. What if I lose my MagicBand?
MagicBands are secure, as they use RFID technology. However, it’s important to treat your Magic Band like a valuable possession, especially if it’s linked to payment options. If you are worried about losing your MagicBand or your little one losing their band, you can buy these closure loops that will keep your band secured.

10. Do Magic Bands Have an Expiration Date?
Magic Bands will typically last for multiple years, so you can use them for multiple trips if you go frequently. A conservative estimate on how long they will last is two years, but my hubby’s MagicBand is four years old and still works fine.

Disney’s Magic Bands are a remarkable innovation that will truly enhance your theme park experience. They seamlessly blend convenience, personalization, and technology, making your visit to the most magical place on earth even more magical. By understanding the ins and outs of MagicBands, you’ll be able to make the most of every feature they offer, ensuring a vacation filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories.

Have more questions about MagicBands? Check out my full article Do You Need a MagicBand to go to Disney World. Drop a comment below. I would love to help! Stressing about all of the pieces of planning your magical vacation? Don’t stress! Let me do to the planning for you while you relax and enjoy the magic! Click here to get your magical vacation planning started.