Checking in online question (benefits/magic band activation)

[oceanmarina]

Hi all,

I have never done online check-in and had a few questions.

In terms of the magic bands activation (if I remember correctly, when I physically check-in at the front desk of the hotel, I thought the cast member checking me in scanned or did something with my magic bands that activates them so you can go to the parks. How does your magic band get activated if you use online check-in?)

What is the best benefit of online check-in? Do you find that you get your room assignment quicker?

Also, if you have a room request, do you have a better chance of getting that room type with the hotel-check in as opposed to online?

Thanks for any feedback, Marina

 

[soccer mom]

We have used online check-in since its conception and like it.

1. Your Magic Band is just working when you get there. Magical, isn't it?

2. Best benefit - not having to start our stay standing in a line. We usually arrive between 12:00 PM and 1:30 pm and we have always received our text message with room info before we get to resort, usually when I turn phone on at airport.

3. We have always gotten our room request, but we don't ask for anything too specific. Maybe "close to transportation, upper floor."

We do go during low attendance time and stay at the smallest resort which could make a difference. Try it, you don't have anything to lose. If you don't like your room location it will only cost you a trip to the front desk.

 

[dansdad]

Hi all,

I have never done online check-in and had a few questions.

In terms of the magic bands activation (if I remember correctly, when I physically check-in at the front desk of the hotel, I thought the cast member checking me in scanned or did something with my magic bands that activates them so you can go to the parks. How does your magic band get activated if you use online check-in?)

Your Magic Bands are shipped already activated. No need for them to do anything to them when you arrive.

What is the best benefit of online check-in?

The possibility of being able to Bypass The Front Desk by getting your room number texted to you when it's ready and go right to your room when you arrive.

Do you find that you get your room assignment quicker?

Your room won't get assigned any quicker. But if you do Online Check In you may find out what your room number is before you arrive

Also, if you have a room request, do you have a better chance of getting that room type with the hotel-check in as opposed to online?

Nope, not at all.

 

[disneygirl1972]

Have I read somewhere that you can possibly see your room assignment on My Disney Experience?

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Have I read somewhere that you can possibly see your room assignment on My Disney Experience?

Yes, once your room is ready the number 'should' show up on MDE. This is a relatively new change to MDE. As with all things related to getting the room ready text and/or it showing up on the app, YMMV!

 

[PolyRob]

I will warn you, if its 4/5pm and you are arriving late, call and insist on having your room number sent to you. I had a late flight delayed numerous times and no text/e-mail sent or app info. I kept calling and my room changed SIGNIFICANTLY for the worse. We were able to work something out, but I would have been very upset if I arrived at 6am (my flight was very delayed) and had been told what room I eventually was assigned since the system glitched and never sent us our confirmed room.