Is it worth it to bypass Online Check-in?

[DisWishes720]

Hello everyone!

We leave in 8 days so we are now able to online check-in, but I have heard some rumors that if you bypass online check in that you have a better chance of an upgrade when you get to the hotel. Is this true? Should I wait and just check-in at the hotel with the hopes of a possible upgrade or do the online check-in to save time?

Thanks in advance!

 

[aaarcher86]

Hello everyone!

We leave in 8 days so we are now able to online check-in, but I have heard some rumors that if you bypass online check in that you have a better chance of an upgrade when you get to the hotel. Is this true? Should I wait and just check-in at the hotel with the hopes of a possible upgrade or do the online check-in to save time?

Thanks in advance!

Upgrades have happened to people who check in both ways. If you're getting an upgrade, it's because of the needs of the resort, so check in method doesn't really matter.

Upgrades are RARE though, so I definitely wouldn't plan any portion of your stay in the hopes of getting one. Just enjoy what you booked, and check in using the method that's easiest for you.

 

[owl0306]

upgrades are rare so do not think b/c of not doing pre check in it will even matter. if you want a nicer room/view/location pay for it so you are not disappointed

 

[DisWishes720]

upgrades are rare so do not think b/c of not doing pre check in it will even matter. if you want a nicer room/view/location pay for it so you are not disappointed

Upgrades have happened to people who check in both ways. If you're getting an upgrade, it's because of the needs of the resort, so check in method doesn't really matter.

Upgrades are RARE though, so I definitely wouldn't plan any portion of your stay in the hopes of getting one. Just enjoy what you booked, and check in using the method that's easiest for you.

Thanks everyone! We really didn't care to have a better room or a better view, but I had read a few reviews of people getting club level or something by sheer luck (something I would not pay for) because they waited to check in and the resort had something last minute open up.

What I really do want is an actual balcony. We have a little guy who will be napping in the afternoons and the DH and I like to sit out on the balcony to relax during this time. I heard that Beach Club sometimes has just a standing room only balcony. Would a full balcony be something I could request?

 

[Mousemommy1]

Thanks everyone! We really didn't care to have a better room or a better view, but I had read a few reviews of people getting club level or something by sheer luck (something I would not pay for) because they waited to check in and the resort had something last minute open up.

What I really do want is an actual balcony. We have a little guy who will be napping in the afternoons and the DH and I like to sit out on the balcony to relax during this time. I heard that Beach Club sometimes has just a standing room only balcony. Would a full balcony be something I could request?

Yes. You can call CRO and have them add your request for a full balcony.

Remember, a request is not guaranteed.

 

[ttigger81]

This is just my experience...I have used on-line check in 4 times. Each time our room has been ready prior to 3pm (may just be good luck though). My most recent trip (11/24-12/1) we did on-line check in and when we arrived there was nobody in our line but a line for regular check-in. This past trip we did receive an upgrade (standard to family suite at asmu); however there are many reasons why that could have happened!

My family enjoys on-line check in and have had nothing but good experiences!!

Enjoy your trip

 

[WendyWuWu]

For what it's worth I never did online check in because I worried I'd not get my requests considered. This year however I tried it. We had booked standard view at Yacht Club. I requested near the lobby/transportation and king knowing the chances of getting even one would be slim. I not only got both but got a water view overlooking the gazebo and marina! And I got checked in twice as fast.

 

[Lynne M]

Online check-in doesn't affect any requests on your reservation, nor does it affect your (slim) chances of getting an upgrade. All it does is allow the staff to get your reservation paperwork and key prepared before you arrive.

 

[davedmaine]

Thanks everyone! We really didn't care to have a better room or a better view, but I had read a few reviews of people getting club level or something by sheer luck (something I would not pay for) because they waited to check in and the resort had something last minute open up.

What I really do want is an actual balcony. We have a little guy who will be napping in the afternoons and the DH and I like to sit out on the balcony to relax during this time. I heard that Beach Club sometimes has just a standing room only balcony. Would a full balcony be something I could request?

We ended up with one of those balconies on our last trip. It's more of a tease than anything and I wondered why they even included the thing.. Yes, you can certainly request it. I found out too late..

 

[BuzzLiteyear]

I understand the hesitation to do the online check in. I was nervous when they first offered it. It's so nice skipping the regular line.

 

[DaisyD]

I've stayed at WDW hundreds of times always checking in when I get there and never upgraded, ever. The one time I do use the online check in and I get upgrade from standard view at WL to concierge. LOL Now I always wil check in online.

 

[DisWishes720]

Yes. You can call CRO and have them add your request for a full balcony.

Remember, a request is not guaranteed.

This is probably a silly questions...but what is CRO? I'm going to definitely call them today.

Ok you've convinced me to check-in online! Should I make the room requests before I check-in online?

 

[DisneyDudet]

CRO= Central Reservations Office

I'm with you with the online check in. In certain resorts, I tend to have requests (due to noise level and foot traffic). Usually your room is assigned to you before you arrive anyway, so the check in doesn't matter. I would assume that if there is something you'd like/need that you didn't receive when you check in after checking in online, you can still request to have them look into it once you get there, right?