So, I've been talking a lot about the perks of staying on property recently. One that I have alluded to, but haven't elaborated on is Disney's Magical Express (DME), a free transportation service that Disney provides to its on-property customers. Once you have your flight itinerary, you either let your Disney Travel Agent know your information or you can contact Disney to make your reservation. There are two ways to do that: online or by phone at (407)939-1936.
Shortly before your trip you will receive a letter in the mail and luggage tags for everyone in your party. The letter will confirm your flight information and give you instructions on where to go in the airport. Make sure to bring this letter with you when you travel just in case you don't already have your Magic Bands (I'm looking at you, international travelers!) or there is a problem when they scan your band at check in. Note: DME only runs out of Orlando International Airport (MCO) not any of the other airports in the region.
When using DME, Disney provides the option of resort luggage delivery. This means that if you place those yellow tags on your checked luggage, you get to bypass baggage claim and head straight to the Magical Express and your luggage will be delivered straight to your resort room! Allow for around 3 hours for your luggage to arrive, so if you need things in there or would just rather have it sooner, you can still go to baggage claim and pick up your luggage first. Don't worry though, your motor coach won't leave without you! If you choose to pick up your own luggage or carry on (like we do), there is plenty of space underneath the coach to house all of your things.
Once you arrive in Orlando, follow the signs (there's LOADS of them) to the Magical Express check-in desk. From there, a Cast Member will scan either your band or your letter and direct you to your motor coach. The motor coaches are clean, plush, and have seat belts. There is also an on-board restroom, this can be important with littles as there is about a 45 minute ride from the airport to the Disney resorts. Once everyone is settled on board, the coach starts its trip and a series of safety videos, park information, and then classic Disney cartoons will play to keep your family entertained for the whole ride to your hotel (Miss F snort laughed all the way to our hotel watching Goofy on our last trip).
At the end of your vacation, you again have the opportunity to use the Magical Express (or Tragical Express as we call it) as transportation to Orlando International Airport. The day before you check out, a Disney's Magical Express Transportation Notice will be placed in your hotel room. This will have your departure time and flight information on it. MAKE SURE YOU BRING THIS LETTER WITH YOU!!! Magic Bands don't work for the return trip. I have seen people who throw the letter out or just don't have it for some reason have all kinds of problem's getting on the motor coach to go home. The driver needs to collect the letters as proof that you were transported from the resort back to the airport.
Another option that comes with Disney's Magical Express is resort airline check-in. This is a complimentary service that allows you to check your luggage and receive your boarding passes before you leave your resort, saving you time at the airport. If your flight is eligible, your boarding passes will be delivered to your room the morning before your departure. If not, you may pick up your boarding pass and check your luggage at the Resort Airline Check-In Desk at least 3 hours prior to your flight.
We love the Magical Express and how much easier it makes our lives and think you will to! As always, feel free to ask us your questions and follow us on Facebook!