Are MagicBands necessary?


Are MagicBands necessary? No. You do not need a MagicBand to enjoy the Disney parks. Though the technology has been available in Walt Disney World for ten years, and Disneyland adopted the system in 2022, you can still use your smartphone or ticket system to navigate the parks.


Do I need MagicBand for Genie?

You may be hoppy to know that using a MagicBand is completely optional. You can continue to use your phone to scan your ticket into the park and to redeem your Lightning Lanes with Genie+. The MagicBand is simply a convenience that helps you avoid having to pull out your phone all the time.


Does everyone in your party need a MagicBand at Disney?

The person who has DAS goes first. Then everyone else can scan in after them. If some party members do not have a MagicBand, they can still use their phone or a park ticket to redeem it. MagicBand+ is simply another option.


What is the point of MagicBands at Disney?

MagicBands connect you to all the vacation choices you made on the My Disney Experience mobile app so you can travel lighter, enter the parks (with valid admission and a theme park reservation), unlock your Disney Resort hotel room and make purchases.


Can MagicBands go through airport security?

Before I leave for the airport on all of my visits to Walt Disney World Resort, I can guarantee you, my MagicBand of choice is secured on my wrist and set to go. I have personally never had an issue in any of my years. I walk straight through security with my MagicBand.


Can you use MagicBands to pay for food?

Disney Dining Plan Payment and Credit Tracking Are you participating in the Disney Dining Plan during your vacation? If so, simply touch your MagicBand to a touch point to “pay” (using your allotted meal or snack credits).


How many hours do MagicBands last?

MagicBand+, introduced in 2022, has a rechargeable battery and comes with a charging cable. Battery life is estimated to last 1 to 3 days between charges. It is recommended that you charge your band each night during your vacation.


Will a 5 year old MagicBand still work?

Just make sure they're active. One thing thats a slight bummer is cannot use them to buy points at resort arcades but thats life. They will work for purchases and tapping into rides. But they won't link the ride photos that don't have a touch point.


Can Disney MagicBands get wet?

Another great thing about the MagicBands is that they are waterproof. I remember worrying about my paper ticket getting wet during our splash mountain rides, and thinking more about the safety of the ticket rather than the fun of the ride.