How far in advance to make reservations?

[Soccer Princess]

Okay, the search isn't working for me so if that has already been answered a thousand times you have my apologies!

We are planning on using Magical Express and I'm not sure how far in advance I need to make reservations for this? What information do I need to have? Can I just do it online? Also, we are flying SW so I know we can still use the transportation, but we just have to check our bags and pick them up and then take them to the motorcoach, correct? Sorry it's been a while! Thanks!

 

[helenk]

You can make arrangements for ME now, generally when you make your reservations they will ask if want ME.
You will get tags to put on your luggage, you do not have to take them on the bus with you. I would recommend that you pack some essentials in your carry on bag so that if you need your bathing suit etc you will have what you need with you.
After you get off the plane and go to the counter to check in for ME they will confirm your information for your return trip. A day before your departure, you will get an envelope on your room door knob which will tell you what time the ME bus will pick you up to go back to the airport.
SW is not a participating airline, all this means is that when you go back to the airport you will need to take your luggage with you...the driver places it under the bus and then drops you off at either the A side or the B side of the airport.
The only difference with participating airline is that you can check your luggage at the resort and they will be transported to the airport for you, from what I understand you do not have to check in when you get to the airport this will be done at the resort.

 

[seashoreCM]

The rule has been that you need to make ME reservations 10 days in advance but hearsay has it that they are not strict about this when your entire vacation is booked on shorter notice. Disney's contract with the airport says they are not supposed to take guests walking up to the welcoming area with no reservation at all.

Modifications and corrections can be made as little as one day in advance. Going to Disney they don't seem to be strict about this either.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/magicx.htm