When planning a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “How early can you check into a Disney Resort?” The answer is not as straightforward as you might think, and it depends on several factors. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the early check-in process at Disney Resorts, provide examples, share tips, and offer solutions to make your Disney vacation as magical as possible.
The official check-in time for Disney Resort hotels is 3:00 PM, and for Disney Deluxe Villas, it’s 4:00 PM. However, guests can potentially check in earlier, depending on room availability. If your room is not ready upon early arrival, Disney Resorts can hold your luggage, and you can start enjoying the resort amenities or visit the parks. Remember, an early check-in request does not guarantee that your room will be ready before the standard check-in time.
Official Check-In Time at Disney Resorts
The official check-in time for Disney Resort hotels is 3:00 PM, while for Disney Deluxe Villas, it is 4:00 PM. However, guests can check into a Walt Disney World Resort hotel as early as when they arrive, depending on room availability. If your room is not ready, the resort can hold your bags, and you can start enjoying the resort amenities or visit the parks.
Early Check-In: What You Need to Know
Disney does its best to accommodate guests arriving before the official check-in time. You can request early check-in when making your reservation or contacting the hotel ahead of time. However, keep in mind that there is no guarantee that your room will be ready before the standard check-in time.
Online Check-In Services
Disney offers an Online Check-In service, available through the My Disney Experience app, allowing you to check in up to 60 days prior to your arrival. This service is designed to streamline your arrival, but it does not guarantee that your room will be ready any earlier than the standard check-in time.
Luggage Storage for Early Arrivals
If you arrive at a Disney Resort before your room is ready, you can leave your luggage with the Bell Services. They will hold your bags until your room is ready, allowing you to explore the parks or relax at the resort without the burden of your luggage.
Early Access to Disney Amenities
Even if your room is not ready, you can start enjoying certain Disney amenities. Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and select other hotels can take advantage of a 30-minute early entry into Walt Disney World theme parks every day. This benefit allows you to enjoy attractions with shorter wait times and experience the parks before they open to the general public.
Tips for Early Check-In at Disney Resorts
To optimize the early check-in process at Disney Resorts, consider the following tips and tricks:
- Request early check-in: Make your early check-in request as early as possible to increase your chances of securing one.
- Be flexible with arrival time: Arriving early in the morning may increase the likelihood of available rooms compared to later in the day.
- Utilize Disney’s baggage and package hold service: If your room is not ready, you can drop off your bags at the front desk and explore the theme parks or nearby areas before check-in.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: Check-in early using the app, which allows you to bypass the front desk and go straight to your room when it’s ready.
- Visit the front desk upon arrival: Let the front desk know you’re there and would like the first available room of the type you booked.
- Consider online check-in: Guests can check in online starting 60 days out from their vacation through the My Disney Experience app or the Walt Disney World website.
Remember that check-in time is officially at 3:00 PM at Walt Disney World Resort hotels, but you can arrive at any time to store your bags and start enjoying the resort amenities. Keep in mind that even with early check-in requests, there is no guarantee that your room will be ready before the standard check-in time, so it’s a good idea to have a contingency plan.
We hope this guide answers your question about how early you can check into a Disney Resort. The most important thing to remember is that your Disney vacation begins the moment you set foot on the resort, regardless of the check-in time. Make the most out of every magical moment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use resort amenities after the check-out time?
Yes, you can use resort amenities even after checking out. Your MagicBand or Key to the World card will still work for the FastPass+ entrances and for Extra Magic Hours on your check-out day.
What is the check-out time at Disney Resorts?
The standard check-out time at Disney Resorts is 11:00 AM. However, you can request a late check-out by calling the front desk, but it’s subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.
Can I visit Disney Parks on the day of my check-out?
Yes, you can visit Disney Parks on your check-out day. You may store your luggage with Bell Services if you’re planning to visit the parks before your departure.
Are there any benefits to checking in online?
Yes, checking in online can streamline your arrival process at the resort. It allows you to bypass the front desk and go directly to your room when it’s ready. You will receive a text message or email notification when your room is ready.
What is the My Disney Experience app?
The My Disney Experience app is a free tool from Disney that allows you to plan and share your vacation details, including dining reservations, FastPass+ selections, and hotel accommodations. You can also use the app to check-in online, view your room details, and even unlock your room door.
