Backpack checks at main entrances?

[Texian@WDW]

We haven't been to WDW since before 9/11 and were wondering if security checks bags, fanny packs or purses at entrances to parks. (They do at Six Flags.)

If so, does this slow things down when going into park?

 

[Slainte]

Yes they check, and yes it slows you down. The longest we've waited was about 10 minutes in the summertime. Off season you get through in a minute or two. It's slower if you are there at park opening.

 

[Shells9]

It wasn't bad when we were there a few weeks back for openings, but the longest line we encountered was at Epcot at about 6 pm. There were a bunch of people arriving for dinner PR's, and only one security line!

 

[Maridw]

Yes, they are still doing bag checks. We were there at beginning of May and first thing in the morning is the slowest time. But watch the lines because usually each guard is checking TWO sides of one table. so for every guard there is usually two lines. Most people don't realize this until they are almost to the table. The guards do try to get the lines to split, but most people near the ends of the lines can't hear them and others at the front seem to not be paying attention.

Also if you have your backpack, fannypack or whatever open and ready for them to check, it makes the check go faster. That means having ALL pockets open and ready to be checked. That is what slows the lines. Most people wait til they are right at the guard to open the pockets. I try to do once I am within 3 to 4 people of the guard.

 

[momof2sons]

I have found if 1 or 2 people in our group goes through security check then the others go and make PS or get in line for stroller rental it save us time. It also cuts down on the security lines.

Just make sure everyone has their passes before splitting up. Make sure everyone knows where to meet back up.

 

[ritchie56]

I was wondering what they take away in these checks. My husband always carries his Swiss Army knife (you know--a 2 or three inch knife that also has a screwdriver, scissors and assorted other handy stuff on it) and I am relying on those scissors for cutting moleskins for blisters. Is there a problem with that? If so, can I take in scissors? Wouldn't that be equally bad? He will really feel naked without his knife.

 

[>>^..^<<]

I always feel/look guilty when they look through my bag... it's weird - like the feeling you got as a kid if you were in trouble.. and I'm 38!!!!

>>^..^<<

 

[DebbieB]

Originally posted by ritchie56
I was wondering what they take away in these checks. My husband always carries his Swiss Army knife (you know--a 2 or three inch knife that also has a screwdriver, scissors and assorted other handy stuff on it) and I am relying on those scissors for cutting moleskins for blisters. Is there a problem with that? If so, can I take in scissors? Wouldn't that be equally bad? He will really feel naked without his knife.

All he has to do is put the knife in his pocket. That's why I think the checks are worthless. If you have no bag, you just go straight through.

 

[cindy_k]

I don't think the bag checks are going to go away.

Disney has built permenant roof structures at all the park gates to house the checks. These include lights for night time, and a ceiling fan for those hot days. And the roof to keep the rain off the person working there.

They even took the time to theme each structure so it matches the style of the gate.

TTFN!!
Cindy in NY