Should I Choose an Magical Express Airline?

[bwbuddy5]

I have my heart set on a participating ME airline - that streamlined check out at the motel would be awesome! But, I can get Southwest several $'s cheaper with more convenient times.

Do I understand correctly that the only real difference in using a non-participating airline would be getting our luggage on the bus when we check-out at our resort, and then retrieving it and checking in at the airport?

Should I hold out a while longer? - we leave in July.

 

[goofy4tink]

While I do love the ability to say goodby to my luggage at the resort, I wouldn't pass up a good fare in order to be able to use that perk. I flew SW last August for the first time. I got a terrific fare. I had only carryon so it wasn't an issue going down. When I left POP, I just took our bags with us to the bus, hopped on and then back to the airport as usual. Like I said...getting rid of those bags and not having to check them at MCO is terrific, but not if I end up paying a lot more money for airfare!!!

 

[speedyf]

I agree with Goofy4Tink....

Just wanted to add that the bus driver actually loads your luggage onto the bus and unloads your luggage from the bus upon arrival at the airport. So...you don't have to worry about lifting or loading luggage.

By using a participating airline...you do save time by not having to check your luggage upon arrival at the airport......but, by using ME, you will probably be arriving about 2 or more hours before your flight leaves. So...checking your luggage won't be that big of an issue.

This is all based on my experience back in June 2005.

Speed

 

[CleveRocks]

Do I understand correctly that the only real difference in using a non-participating airline would be getting our luggage on the bus when we check-out at our resort, and then retrieving it and checking in at the airport?

Yup.

 

[Lewisc]

If the everything else was equal I'd pick a particpating airline BUT everything is never equal. One airline will have a better fare or offer a better flight time. You might prefer an airline that you fly often to get FF. You might prefer SW for the lack of change fees.

In other words don't worry about it. Pick whatever airline works for you.