Earliest check-in for express?

[TB4ZKC]

Hello...

I have figured out that it is actually cheaper to get a hotel room for one night and not use it than buy the express passes online at $40 per, given the size of my family. It is my understanding (reading posts on here) that you get them 2 days...day of check in and day of check-out.

My question...how early can you get them for day #1 from the hotel on your day of check in? I've heard you don't have to wait for actual check-in time to get your passes...that you can get them earlier.

Also was looking to verify that as long as the room is good for 5 folks, you can get 5 passes?

Any help? These forums are great! Thanks in advance.

 

[Sleepy]

I have figured out that it is actually cheaper to get a hotel room for one night and not use it than buy the express passes online at $40 per, given the size of my family.

If I was paying that much for a room, I would at least use it for a mid day break or something. Maybe even take advantage of the pool when you are done with the parks.

 

[wilma-bride]

I agree with Sleepy - why not use the room? Anyway, as far as I am aware, you can check in pretty early (I have read that some have checked in around 8am) and get your room key, even though the room will probably not be ready (although this won't bother you if you're not planning on using it)

 

[Illuminations06]

My family is doing the same thing. Universal told us that we can get our express passes as soon as we arrive at the hotel, even if the room isn't ready. They also said that they could hold our bags in the Lobby while we went to the parks!

 

[goofy!]

You can check in early, get your passes, grab the boat and be at the gates before opening.

And yes, you can have up to 5 people in a room, as long as it is a room that holds 5 people. But be aware that if there are more than 2 adults, there will be an additional charge for any adults over 2. The key cards do specify on them whether they are an adult's card or a child's card.

Have fun. And I also recommend using the room to relax during the middle part of the day. With unlimited FOTL, you can do the parks at your leisure

 

[PattiPB]

Welcome to the DIS!

Your information is correct---get the 5 keys early AM, and use them for two days.

FYI---the amazing people on this board recently posted the Annual Passholder Discounts at the hotel. You might want to look into buying 1 AP to get the substantial hotel discount.

And, yeah, at the very least use the pool and take a nap---the hotels are awesome.