Early Check-in At Disney Resorts: The Secret To Start Your Vacation Early

If you’re a Disney lover, you know the excitement of planning a Disney vacation lasts long before actually arriving at the resort! One question that comes up often is: How early can I check into my Disney Resort?

Guests can check into a Walt Disney World Resort hotel as early as when they arrive. The official check-in time is 3 p.m., but guests can use Disney’s Direct-to-Room service to check-in in advance through the My Disney Experience mobile app up to 60 days prior to arrival.

This allows guests to notify Disney of their arrival time and potentially expedite the cleaning of their room, as well as provide necessary information such as credit card details and room preferences. Guests will receive a notification when their room is ready, including their room number, and can head straight to their room or enjoy the resort and theme parks while waiting.

If you’re like me and want to start your Disney experience early, getting into our room quickly is great for taking a nap after a long drive or just to freshen up.

Here we’ll break down what “early check-in” really means and how to maximize it for your next Disney vacation.

I’ll discuss how far in advance you can check-in online, when official room keys are available upon arrival, and what options are available for an even earlier start to your Disney adventure. Let’s dive in!

Before we get started, if you’re a fan of all things Disney and love discussing theme parks and planning Disney vacations, then I want to announce the launch of my new private Facebook group, the Disney Park Advisor Community. This is a place where Disney fans can come together to share their love of all things Disney, ask questions, get advice, and make new friends. Click the link to request membership. I can’t wait to see you in the group!

Disney Resort Check-In Policy

The official check-in time for Disney Resorts is typically 3 PM, but there are a few other options available to you if you’re looking to check in earlier.

One option is Disney’s Online Check-In service, which allows you to check in to your room up to 60 days before your arrival date. This service also allows you to provide a credit card for incidentals and sign the resort’s terms and conditions electronically. However, even if you check in online several days in advance, typically, unless you want an early check-in (which we’ll discuss in a minute), you will still need to wait until 3 PM to access your room.

Another option is to request an early check-in or late check-out. While these requests are not guaranteed, Disney will do their best to accommodate you based on room availability. If you are staying in a Disney Vacation Club Villa, you may have more chances of an early check-in because of the nature of the Villa check-in process.

Checking in early at your Disney Resort

If you’re looking to check in earlier than the official check-in time, you can make a request for an early check-in when you make your reservation. Keep in mind that these requests are not guaranteed and will depend on room availability. If an early check-in is not possible, Disney will do their best to accommodate you with a late check-out, so you can enjoy your room for a little longer before departing.

It’s also worth noting that if you’re staying in a Disney Vacation Club Villa, you may have more chances of an early check-in because of the nature of the Villa check-in process.

Keep in mind that there are several factors that can affect your chances of an early check-in, such as room availability and any special requests or accommodations you may have. Additionally, upgrading your room or booking a special package may also increase your chances of an early check-in.

If you’re unable to check in early, you can still make the most of your time at the resort by utilizing Disney’s baggage and package hold service. This allows you to drop off your bags and packages at the front desk before your room is ready, so you can explore the theme parks or nearby areas before check-in. You can also visit Disney Springs or other shopping and dining options while you wait.

Check-in early using the My Disney Experience app

Requesting an early check-in at your Disney Resort can be done easily using the My Disney Experience app. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Download the My Disney Experience app on your mobile device and create an account.
2. Log in to your account and navigate to the “Reservations” section.
3. Select the reservation for the resort you will be staying at.
4. Scroll down to the “Check-In” section and tap on the “Request Early Check-In” button.
5. Fill out the form with your request, including the desired check-in time and any special requests or accommodations.
6. Submit your request.

It’s important to note that early check-in requests are not guaranteed and will depend on room availability. Disney will do their best to accommodate your request, but keep in mind that if an early check-in is not possible, they will try to provide you with a late check-out instead.

It’s also worth noting that if you’re staying in a Disney Vacation Club Villa, you may have more chances of an early check-in because of the nature of the Villa check-in process.

It’s also a good idea to check the status of your request a few days before your arrival date. If your request has been granted, you will receive a notification through the app, and you can also find your room number and check-in instructions in the “Reservations” section of the app.

Factors that Affect Early Check-In

When you’re looking to check in early at a Disney Resort, there are several factors that can affect your chances of being able to do so. These include:

1. Room availability: This is the most important factor that affects early check-in is the availability of rooms. If the resort is fully booked, it’s going to be difficult to impossible to secure an early check-in.
2. Special requests or accommodations: If you have special requests or accommodations, such as a room on a higher floor or a room with a specific view, it may be more difficult to secure an early check-in depending on the number of other requests they’re attempting to fill
3. Upgrades or special promotions: If you have booked an upgrade or a special package, such as a club level room or a Disney Vacation Club Villa, you may have a better chance of securing an early check-in.
4. Arrival time: The time of your arrival can also affect your chances of an early check-in. If you are arriving early in the morning, there may be more rooms available than if you are arriving later in the day.
5. Check-in day: The day of check-in also plays a role in early check-in chances. Some days may have higher availability than others.

It’s important to keep in mind that early check-in requests are not guaranteed and will depend on room availability at the time of your arrival. Disney will do their best to accommodate your request, but keep in mind that if an early check-in is not possible, they will try to provide you with a late check-out instead.

How to Maximize Your Chances of an Early Check-In

If you’re looking to check in early at a Disney Resort, there are several steps you can take to maximize your chances of being able to do so. These include:

1. Make your request as early as possible: The earlier you make your early check-in request, the better your chances of being able to secure one.
2. Be flexible with your arrival time: If you’re able to arrive early in the morning, there may be more rooms available than if you’re arriving later in the day.
3. Consider booking an upgrade or special package: If you book an upgrade or a special package, such as a club level room or a Disney Vacation Club Villa, you may have a better chance of securing an early check-in.
4. Be specific with your requests: If you have specific requests, such as a room on a higher floor or a room with a specific view, be sure to mention them when you make your request.
5. Check the status of your request: A few days before your arrival date, check the status of your early check-in request to ensure that it has been granted.
6. Use Disney’s Online Check-In service: You can use Disney’s online check-in service, which allows you to check in for your room up to 60 days before your arrival date. This service also allows you to provide a credit card for incidentals and sign the resort’s terms and conditions electronically.
7. Utilize Disney’s baggage and package hold service: If an early check-in isn’t possible, use Disney’s baggage and package hold service to drop off your bags and packages at the front desk before your room is ready, so you can explore the theme parks or nearby areas before check-in.

Keep in mind that early check-in requests are not guaranteed, but by following these steps, you can maximize your chances of being able to check in early at a Disney Resort.

What to do if you can’t get an early check-in

If an early check-in at a Disney Resort is not possible, there are several alternatives that you can consider to make the most of your time before your room is ready. These include:

1. Utilize Disney’s baggage and package hold service: You can leave your luggage at the resort before your room is ready, so you can explore the theme parks or nearby areas before check-in.
2. Take advantage of Extra Magic Hours: Since you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you may be able take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, which allow guests to enter select theme parks early or stay late.
3. Grab lunch at Disney Springs: If you’re looking to spend some time shopping, dining, or just exploring, you can visit Disney Springs, which is a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located near the resorts.
4. Explore the resort: Disney Resorts offer so many activities and amenities, like swimming pools, fitness centers, and arcades, that you can enjoy while you wait for your room to be ready. You can even hop on the Monorail or Skyliner – we’ve done both and it’s a ton of fun and a great way to spend some time before checking in.
5. Hang out at the pool: If you’re arriving after a long flight or drive, you may want to take relax for a bit before you start your vacation. There are numerous pools, chairs and accommodations for you to kick up your heals and chill out for a bit.

Direct-to-Room Service

One of the perks of using online check-in is the Direct-to-Room Service option. This service sends a text message or notification to your phone when your room is ready, including your room number and a map of the resort. This service is available for guests staying at select Disney Resorts and provides a more convenient and efficient check-in experience.

To use the Disney Direct-to-Room Service, guests must first check in online using the My Disney Experience app. Once check-in is complete, guests will receive a text message or email with their room number and a digital room key. Guests can then proceed directly to their room, bypassing the front desk and traditional check-in process.

The Disney Direct-to-Room Service is an opt-in service, meaning that guests must choose to use it when they check in online. It’s also worth noting that this service is not available for all room types and may not be available during certain times of the year, so it’s best to check with the resort directly to confirm availability.

Using the Disney Direct-to-Room Service can save guests time and hassle, especially during peak travel times when lines can be long at the front desk. It also allows guests to get settled into their room and start enjoying their vacation as soon as they arrive.

Pros & cons of early check-in

Online Resort Check-In saves some time, since the details will already be handled and information such as credit card numbers will already be on file. Guests can explore the resort, have some lunch, or even visit a theme park while waiting for notification that the room is ready. However, there are also some drawbacks to using the service.

Pros:

1. Convenience: Thanks to online check-in, you’ll be able to complete the entire process in a few clicks and before your arrival, saving time and avoiding stress. You can choose the room type that suits you best, add any additional services that you might need during your stay, such as airport shuttle services or late checkout times, and review a summary at the end of the process to check that everything is correct. Once completed, you will receive all relevant information on your booking via text message so that all you need to head right to your room!
2. Early check-in: If you let Disney know when you’ll be arriving in advance, they may be able to get you into a a room that’s already been cleaned so that you can check-in and start enjoying their services earlier.
3. Room preferences: As a guest, you can make room requests through online check-in and specify what type of view or floor level you prefer. If you have specific needs or wishes regarding your accommodation, such as having a room with a balcony that overlooks the pool, or one that’s located on the top floor of the hotel, this is your chance to make that request so cast members can accommodate your requests to the best of their ability.
4. Bypass check-in lines: You can save yourself time and hassle while checking into your hotel by using online check-in instead of heading to the traditional check-in line at the front desk. Not only does this give you an opportunity to get settled quickly, but it also helps reduce crowds for those staying in the hotel. Once you’ve complete the online check-in process, you’ll be ready to make the most of your stay without having to wait in line or fill out any paperwork.

Cons:

1. Room requests may not be honored: Unfortunately, room requests may not be honored. Disney does not guarantee that specific requests made through online check-in will be fulfilled. When you’re making room requests through the My Disney Experience app, if you’ve paid for a preferred room, but request accommodations such as a landscape view or second floor, it’s a little more difficult to get your requests granted than you may have been expecting.
2. Miss the “welcome” feeling: When you check-in at the front desk of your resort, you’re sure to be greeted warmly by cast members and receive all the pertinent information about amenities, services, and events that are happening during your stay. It can be a truly a special moment when you first enter the lobby and are immersed in the theming of the resort; something that really can’t be recreated without being there in person.
3. Technical issues: In some cases, magic bands may not be linked properly due to skipping the front desk check-in process, and sometimes there are issues with accessing your room or charging privileges. This has happened to us, and while it’s not too big of a deal, you do have to head all the way back up to the lobby to get things squared away which can be a less-than-optimal way to start your stay. When you visit the front desk, the cast members will double-check these settings so that any issues can be avoided. Recent changes have helped reduce this problem, but visiting the front desk is still the best way to ensure trouble-free check-in.
4. Missing out on complementary upgrades: One time we were staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge for our anniversary and were upgraded to a room with a savannah view just by checking in at the front desk. It really made everything that much more magical sitting on our tiny little porch watching the animals first thing in the morning during our stay. If you’re looking to snag an upgrade at your resort, it’s not something that happens very often – but you can improve your chances by heading to the front desk check-in. If you’re a Disney veteran it might feel a little uncomfortable to bypass the online check-in and go directly to the front desk but if you want to increase your chances of getting an upgrade, it’s worth a shot.

Nexts Steps

The next step is connect with other Disney fans. Join the Disney Park Advisor Community group to connect with other Disney fans and get tips and advice on planning the perfect Disney vacation. This private Facebook group is the perfect place to share your love of all things Disney and get insider knowledge from other Disney enthusiasts. Simply click the link below to request membership and become a part of our community.