{2025} Do you need MagicBands at Disney World?

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Wondering if you need to invest in Magic Bands (or even MagicBands+, the new MagicBands)? Your trusty travel guide is here to walk you through the MagicBand dilemma! 

The Polynesian Resort (JSB 2025)

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Planning a trip to Disney World? Wondering if you should buy a MagicBand?

Sporting my MagicBand+ at Animal Kingdom, February, 2025 (JSB)

Lucky you! We just returned in February from our first Disney World trip as a family of three! I'd been many times, but this is my first trip in a few years, so there was a lot to catch up on and I'm so enjoying sharing all of our experiences with you!


I was torn on whether I wanted to invest in a Magic Band+ (we'll walk through the differences in a second). Ultimately my husband bought them for us. I was so glad he did. A Disney trip can be stressful, and the Magic Bands (I'll refer to them by this term, collectively), really did make things easier for me while traveling with my toddler.


So let's dive in - we'll start with some frequently asked questions about Magic Bands, and then I'll walk you through why I'm so glad we ultimately got MagicBands for our trip.

{2025} Most Frequently Asked Questions about MagicBands

What is a MagicBand?

MagicBands are plastic watch-sized bands that you wear on your wrist during your time at Disney World. You scan them as your park tickets when you enter the parks, when you check-in for Lightening Lane Passes, to link your ride photos and PhotoPass photos to your account, and to charge food to your room, if you're staying on property. They even open your Disney resort hotel room door.

What is MagicBand+?

A few years ago, Disney stopped giving out basic MagicBands for free, upgraded the functionality of the bands, and started charging for them - enter MagicBand+. They do all the same things as the original MagicBands, but also allow you to engage with certain light features, much like the Harry Potter wands at Universal.

Do I have to have a MagicBand+? Can't I just get, or even buy, an original MagicBand?

No. Magic Band+ is currently the only option.

Are MagicBands free?

MagicBands are no longer free. The only option available currently is the Magic Band+, which is not free.

Does the MagicBand connect to the app?

The My Disney Experience App is your digital home base in Disney World. When you check in at the front desk at your Walt Disney World Resort, the cast member will ensure that your MagicBands are hooked up correctly to your My Disney Experience account.

Are MagicBands+ included in my Walk Disney World Vacation package?

No. Though, personally I'd prefer it if they were, even if I paid the same amount in the end.

Can I get into the parks without a MagicBand?

Yes! You can get into the Disney World parks without a MagicBand, using either your phone or resort card (if you're staying on property).

Can I use my MagicBand on my next trip?​

Yes! MagicBands do not expire and can be used on your next trip. Obviously, Disney could always change its program, so keep that in mind.

{2025} Do you need Magic Bands at Disney World?

Benefits of MagicBands

• Easy access to parks when going through security and check-in
• Don't have to dig out your phone/card when using Lightning Lanes
• Makes it easier to take advantage of PhotoPass photographers
• Each family member has his/her own band
• Don't have to carry a wallet, bag around your resort, so you can leave your credit card, room key, etc. in your room.
• Cute designs, with tons of Disney character options (we each got a different design) in trendy hues
• Adjustable size

Drawbacks of MagicBands

• Costs $30+
• Have to be charged each night, like a cell phone
• About the size of an Apple Watch, so you'd have to wear it on the other arm, which just feels like a lot of bulk
• The 'light' features aren't that appealing for adults/toddlers, though may interest a slightly older kiddo than mine

Should I buy MagicBands for my Disney World trip?

​You can absolutely do everything you need to do at Disney World, without the ease of MagicBands. They're a nice-to-have, not a must-have. If you're only visiting for a day or not staying on property, you might just skip it.

But, all-in-all, I'd say get the MagicBands. Disney vacations are undeniably expensive, and I do think that the use of the MagicBand enhanced our experience and made our trip much easier, since we have a toddler, used the Dining Plan, and stayed on-property. Though it's a slippery slope when you're at Disney....what's another $100? Ok, I'm a bad influence.

Thanks for Stopping By!

I so appreciate you coming by the blog to plan your trip to your happy place and my happy place, Disney World! We had the most phenomenal trip, and I know you will too. While you're here, I hope you'll take some time to check out the many other free resources I've compiled containing all of my Walt Disney World tips about the most magical place on Earth, and sign up for my newsletter! xx

• {2025} The Ultimate Guide to Disney Dining with a Toddler
• {2025} A Mom's Guide to Practical Disney World Outfits
• {2025} 8+ Secrets You Need to Know about Disney World's New Lightning Lane System
• 7+ Common Pitfalls on an Adults-Only Disney World Vacation