a more in-depth MB/MB+ video, showing some of the features and interactions would be good. seeing all the MB+'s lighting up during fireworks is very cool (same with during the spaceship earth beacons of magic shows) MB and MB+ have a couple of other niceties: * MB+ lights are multi-colored, and will show different colors and patterns depending on both the MB+ that you purchase (each one has its own "personality"), and the event * unlike MB, MB+ is rechargable. MB batteries supposedly last about two years, but after that, they only work at "touchpoints" (you have to touch the magicband to the touchpoint to have it work, instead of having it work at a distance. the best example of this is on-ride photos: your on-ride photos automatically link to your disney account if you are wearing a MB or MB+) * loading your tickets on your MB/MB+ makes entry simpler than having to either whip out the plastic entry card or your phone * if you're staying in a disney hotel, your mb/mb+ is your room key * if you're staying at a disney hotel, you can use your mb/mb+ to charge food and merch to your room
We've talked quite a bit about MagicBand and MagicBand+ in the past, but in the event that anyone has stumbled into this comment and wants to learn more I've got some links to share. You can learn a bit more about MagicBands, what they do and how they work HERE: th-cam.com/video/4zkewSWDWRo/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=2FoolishMortals For an example of what they look like when they light up you can check this out: th-cam.com/users/shortspkqwNke8UEU If you're wondering more about types of ticket media, we cover that at the end of this video about tickets and admission HERE: th-cam.com/video/ihs4EdwICv4/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=2FoolishMortals
I love my MB+ it’s a huge convenience for tapping into the parks, genie+ lanes, and hotel room instead of taking out your phone every time. I do like how they light up with the shows and the waving at statues if I’m walking past one. I have not played any games with it though, not really my thing. Personally I don’t think it’s a must have but if you have the extra money the convenience of it it wonderful.
I absolutely LOVE how convenient MagicBand [plus or otherwise] is, especially when you're staying on property. Having that one, easy to wear, thing to get you everywhere you need to be is just SO nice!
MB+ recommendation: If you're booking a full trip, you will get the opportunity to purchase them at a discount prior to your stay. If you want a MagicBand+ this is absolutely the way to do it. We splurged on them for our kids first trip to Disney "because why not?" and while we didn't regret the purchase, I wouldn't say it's a must have. For us though, it WAS a way to hype up the excitement of the trip by letting them pick out their bands online. My kids (ages 6 and 3 at the time) really enjoyed the statues, but didn't want to wear their bands for the whole trip. I ended up looping my 6yo's band through a belt loop of their pants, and my 3yo's band lived in a pocket or the stroller for much of the time. We did find the bands a little confusing. They would light up and vibrate at what seemed like odd times, and we couldn't figure out why for all of them. At least once I believe it was because it was time to check in for a restaurant reservation? We were in the Haunted Mansion queue at the time, and we were baffled for a while. Notifications in My Disney Experience would have been nice to help explain what the heck was happening, but there wasn't anything. That said, this was also November of 2022, so maybe it's improved since then? (Probably not....)
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I love that you used MB as a way to hype up the kids for your trip! Yeah. . . the MagicBand+ can definitely be a little bit confusing with all of its interactions and "notifications". I can tell you that it does not interact with your schedule [reservations, virtual queue and whatnot] in any way. Though, that would be GREAT. . . . but that's probably just a pipe dream. lol What I can tell you, and anyone else who might be popping in here, is that the MB+ is interacting with its surroundings. When it seems to buzz randomly throughout the park, it's usually because you're within a certain proximity of a statue. It will buzz and interact at some attraction exits, which sometimes triggers if you're just nearby [Muppet Vision 3D is a good example of this]. When you enter Pandora World of Avatar via the bridge from Africa it will glow. It's also going to do its thing when you're on some attractions or in the queue. For example, at the Haunted Mansion it will "beat" like a heartbeat just before you get on. Mostly I find people are just concerned that their band is just about to die. Pirates of the Caribbean has it pulsing during the cannon scene. . . . things like that. Of course, I say all these things because I've had a lot of time to work it out. . . most people who vacation don't, making it kinda confusing as you mentioned unless you happen to know it's already going to happen. At that point though, I feel like it might not come off as "magical". . . . I don't know. Just some of my thoughts. :-) Thanks so much again for sharing yours!
@@2foolishmortals Ohhh that makes so much sense! I agree, it's really just confusing at least at the frequency with which it happens. If it was something that occurred frequently throughout the park, it would be more obvious that it enhanced the magic - much easier to mentally tie to your surroundings than just the occasional queue interaction. We rode Pirates a couple of times and it definitely didn't interact there, or we might have had some recognition of what was going on.
For your 'optically challenged' viewers, another key weather point (if y'all aren't used to the big humidity)... going from chilly air-conditioned areas (buildings and especially the busses) your glasses are going to fog up QUICK. Recommend researching anti-fog products that may suit your needs. Packing. We always pack light layers and easy to store rain gear (cuz you know it is gonna rain at SOME point). At least two pairs of shoes for all the stepping. Our daughter is fair-skinned so we pack a couple pairs of the UV-protection gardening sleeves. One of our carry-ons always has a change of clothes for the parks; we arrive early on day 1, head to resort, change from airport clothes to park clothes, check bags with bell services (if room is not ready), bada bing bada boom. Never had a Magic Band +; we've done enough research to know that the juice:squeeze ratio just ain't there for the price (for us anyway... to each their own). With regard to interactive experiences, we don't use Play Disney with the possible exception of Soarin'. We also don't have little ones any longer, so can't presume how much that helps keep kiddos focused during long lines. We go old school and look for Hidden Mickeys or other 'landmark features' built into the setting. Thinking about options, including the hands-on play in ride queues is a big winner; how many folks love Seven Dwarves Mine Train play sections (now this can be a traffic jam point, understood). We recently traveled for a family reunion (26 of us from newborn to... well, not so newborn). It seemed that the best strategy for the little ones was for parents to keep custody of their bands. A band kept getting left behind here or there at the start. Years ago, Disney sold small lanyard holders for the Magic Bank pucks (not the Mickey ears one, it's a simple oval on a carabiner) i still use to this day. Going to try the Smart Watch option this trip in May (any advice one way or the other on how good (or not) this is would be greatly appreciated! TIA).
I never thought about a smart watch. If I can get all the Magicband functions using my smart watch, that would minimize my arm accessories. I wonder if there are somethings that can't be done on the watch. worth checking out.
It would be great if SmartWatches functioned like MagicBands, but they do not. . . . aside from being able to use it to gain access to the parks and/or tap in for Lightning Lane and/or Virtual Queue. SmartWatches will not work with any interactive features nor will they collect ride photos.
"Optically Challenged" . . . . nice! This is actually a great point and I'll have to get Russ to share some info on what he does in order to keep his glasses from fogging up, 'cause he has a few products he's tried in the past. Thanks for the reminder. Lots of great advice in this comment! Thanks for including it! I agree, I don't think that the juice is worth the squeeze with MagicBand+. . . unless you can get it on a stellar deal. That said, one thing to keep in mind for your upcoming trip in May if you decide to go the route of using a SmartWatch is that it is not going to have full functionality of a MagicBand. You'll be able to use it in place of a park ticket, but you won't collect on ride photos or get any of the interactions. You also won't be able to use your SmartWatch to charge to your room. [Yes, you can use it to "tap to pay" like you would for any other purchase anywhere else, but it won't go onto your room if you're staying on property like it would if you have a MB.] These might be little things that don't matter much to you, but I figure it's worth mentioning because if you're expecting it to be a 1 for 1 swap from MB to SW. . . . it's not. The only other tidbit I can think of adding here when it come to the SmartWatch situation is to make sure you have backup ticket media just in case the watch isn't working. There was a time when I saw people struggle to get into the parks with their SmartWatch all the time and now it seems like people don't use it as an option hardly at all. . . but that's just my observation. Take it for what it's worth. :-) We hope you have an awesome trip!
@@2foolishmortals always magical in the World! Thanks!!! Great points on the MB regarding keeping track of our spending. The all-in-one convenience of the MB is a huge up for making the stay more effortless. Love the straight-up band!
Magic Band +, I picked up one when it was on sale/clearance for $17, it wasn't a design I particularly cared for, but hey, it was cheap. Amazon sells stickers to cover the design if I so choose, so it wasn't a big deal. I carry my phone in a fanny pack and picked this up for the sole purpose of hotel/park/line entry without having to take my phone out all the time. Just the convenience. This function can be done with the standard magic band, but it was a good deal. These go on sale to reduce the overall price and sometimes you get "check-in" pricing on them when you book a park hotel so it isn't as painful.
Getting a MagicBand+ on sale is a GREAT way to go! Especially if you're not sure whether or not it's for you and if you've got a little one who doesn't care much about the design, though you can ABSOLUTELY get those stickers that you mentioned! Honestly, I love having a MagicBand for the exact reason you mentioned. Having everything that I need to get in and out of the parks and/or my room is just too convenient. PLUS having the ability to collect on-ride phones. . . if that's your thing. Of course, like you said, you can do it all with a regular MagicBand as well as the MagicBand+. . . so you don't really NEED the plus, but if you can get it on sale or at a good price? Why not!?
you described two of the interactive activities that you can use a MB for. maybe a video on the different interactive activities (like the duckTales on in EPCOT, the statues, the bounty hunt, etc.) would be good.
It's definitely on the list! Today, the focus was what you can specifically do with MagicBand+ and so I didn't want to get too into the weeds. Like I said though, it's definitely something we'll be getting into in the future. . . . 'cause there's a LOT going on in that PlayDisney app!
My youngest loved the light changes on he MB+. She was really excited. Also loved the colors when you go into certain ride queues. Does drain the battery so charge every day. We have not played the games but we did use when they had the 50th statues. Somewhat aggravating. If you can deal with the cost, the littles ones will find it fun. Otherwise, not necessary.
The way that they light up with the show can definitely be magical! Though, I've found the queue/attraction interactions to be hit or miss. The statues though. . . . aggravating and disappointing for sure. I wish that, since they are peppered throughout the parks, they were more reliable. At least then I feel like it would make it feel like it was more worth it. Thanks for sharing your experience, :-)
Yup! We are originally from the Boston area, but we've lived all over the place. . goodness it's been like 20 years since we lived in MA. We absolutely love living here! The weather is great, people are great and there's always something going on so that's a major plus for us. Of course, we are right in the action, which isn't for everyone. The beauty of FL though, especially Central FL, is that it's so diverse that you're never too far from what it is you're looking for and we find that really really nice. Good luck with your search! 😀
@@2foolishmortals I didn't realize this either! I just found your channel through YT recommendations while researching DVC; we're in Boston MetroWest and intentionally only go to FL in the late fall and midwinter because of weather 😂
![HIWWHEE | OHM [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/OJJLtTLqLag/mqdefault.jpg)
a more in-depth MB/MB+ video, showing some of the features and interactions would be good. seeing all the MB+'s lighting up during fireworks is very cool (same with during the spaceship earth beacons of magic shows)
MB and MB+ have a couple of other niceties:
* MB+ lights are multi-colored, and will show different colors and patterns depending on both the MB+ that you purchase (each one has its own "personality"), and the event
* unlike MB, MB+ is rechargable. MB batteries supposedly last about two years, but after that, they only work at "touchpoints" (you have to touch the magicband to the touchpoint to have it work, instead of having it work at a distance. the best example of this is on-ride photos: your on-ride photos automatically link to your disney account if you are wearing a MB or MB+)
* loading your tickets on your MB/MB+ makes entry simpler than having to either whip out the plastic entry card or your phone
* if you're staying in a disney hotel, your mb/mb+ is your room key
* if you're staying at a disney hotel, you can use your mb/mb+ to charge food and merch to your room
We've talked quite a bit about MagicBand and MagicBand+ in the past, but in the event that anyone has stumbled into this comment and wants to learn more I've got some links to share.
You can learn a bit more about MagicBands, what they do and how they work HERE:
th-cam.com/video/4zkewSWDWRo/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=2FoolishMortals
For an example of what they look like when they light up you can check this out:
th-cam.com/users/shortspkqwNke8UEU
If you're wondering more about types of ticket media, we cover that at the end of this video about tickets and admission HERE:
th-cam.com/video/ihs4EdwICv4/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=2FoolishMortals
I love my MB+ it’s a huge convenience for tapping into the parks, genie+ lanes, and hotel room instead of taking out your phone every time. I do like how they light up with the shows and the waving at statues if I’m walking past one. I have not played any games with it though, not really my thing. Personally I don’t think it’s a must have but if you have the extra money the convenience of it it wonderful.
I absolutely LOVE how convenient MagicBand [plus or otherwise] is, especially when you're staying on property. Having that one, easy to wear, thing to get you everywhere you need to be is just SO nice!
MB+ recommendation: If you're booking a full trip, you will get the opportunity to purchase them at a discount prior to your stay. If you want a MagicBand+ this is absolutely the way to do it.
We splurged on them for our kids first trip to Disney "because why not?" and while we didn't regret the purchase, I wouldn't say it's a must have. For us though, it WAS a way to hype up the excitement of the trip by letting them pick out their bands online. My kids (ages 6 and 3 at the time) really enjoyed the statues, but didn't want to wear their bands for the whole trip. I ended up looping my 6yo's band through a belt loop of their pants, and my 3yo's band lived in a pocket or the stroller for much of the time.
We did find the bands a little confusing. They would light up and vibrate at what seemed like odd times, and we couldn't figure out why for all of them. At least once I believe it was because it was time to check in for a restaurant reservation? We were in the Haunted Mansion queue at the time, and we were baffled for a while. Notifications in My Disney Experience would have been nice to help explain what the heck was happening, but there wasn't anything. That said, this was also November of 2022, so maybe it's improved since then? (Probably not....)
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I love that you used MB as a way to hype up the kids for your trip!
Yeah. . . the MagicBand+ can definitely be a little bit confusing with all of its interactions and "notifications". I can tell you that it does not interact with your schedule [reservations, virtual queue and whatnot] in any way. Though, that would be GREAT. . . . but that's probably just a pipe dream. lol
What I can tell you, and anyone else who might be popping in here, is that the MB+ is interacting with its surroundings. When it seems to buzz randomly throughout the park, it's usually because you're within a certain proximity of a statue. It will buzz and interact at some attraction exits, which sometimes triggers if you're just nearby [Muppet Vision 3D is a good example of this]. When you enter Pandora World of Avatar via the bridge from Africa it will glow. It's also going to do its thing when you're on some attractions or in the queue. For example, at the Haunted Mansion it will "beat" like a heartbeat just before you get on. Mostly I find people are just concerned that their band is just about to die. Pirates of the Caribbean has it pulsing during the cannon scene. . . . things like that.
Of course, I say all these things because I've had a lot of time to work it out. . . most people who vacation don't, making it kinda confusing as you mentioned unless you happen to know it's already going to happen. At that point though, I feel like it might not come off as "magical". . . . I don't know. Just some of my thoughts. :-)
Thanks so much again for sharing yours!
@@2foolishmortals Ohhh that makes so much sense! I agree, it's really just confusing at least at the frequency with which it happens. If it was something that occurred frequently throughout the park, it would be more obvious that it enhanced the magic - much easier to mentally tie to your surroundings than just the occasional queue interaction. We rode Pirates a couple of times and it definitely didn't interact there, or we might have had some recognition of what was going on.
For your 'optically challenged' viewers, another key weather point (if y'all aren't used to the big humidity)... going from chilly air-conditioned areas (buildings and especially the busses) your glasses are going to fog up QUICK. Recommend researching anti-fog products that may suit your needs.
Packing. We always pack light layers and easy to store rain gear (cuz you know it is gonna rain at SOME point). At least two pairs of shoes for all the stepping. Our daughter is fair-skinned so we pack a couple pairs of the UV-protection gardening sleeves. One of our carry-ons always has a change of clothes for the parks; we arrive early on day 1, head to resort, change from airport clothes to park clothes, check bags with bell services (if room is not ready), bada bing bada boom.
Never had a Magic Band +; we've done enough research to know that the juice:squeeze ratio just ain't there for the price (for us anyway... to each their own). With regard to interactive experiences, we don't use Play Disney with the possible exception of Soarin'. We also don't have little ones any longer, so can't presume how much that helps keep kiddos focused during long lines. We go old school and look for Hidden Mickeys or other 'landmark features' built into the setting. Thinking about options, including the hands-on play in ride queues is a big winner; how many folks love Seven Dwarves Mine Train play sections (now this can be a traffic jam point, understood).
We recently traveled for a family reunion (26 of us from newborn to... well, not so newborn). It seemed that the best strategy for the little ones was for parents to keep custody of their bands. A band kept getting left behind here or there at the start. Years ago, Disney sold small lanyard holders for the Magic Bank pucks (not the Mickey ears one, it's a simple oval on a carabiner) i still use to this day. Going to try the Smart Watch option this trip in May (any advice one way or the other on how good (or not) this is would be greatly appreciated! TIA).
I never thought about a smart watch. If I can get all the Magicband functions using my smart watch, that would minimize my arm accessories. I wonder if there are somethings that can't be done on the watch. worth checking out.
It would be great if SmartWatches functioned like MagicBands, but they do not. . . . aside from being able to use it to gain access to the parks and/or tap in for Lightning Lane and/or Virtual Queue. SmartWatches will not work with any interactive features nor will they collect ride photos.
"Optically Challenged" . . . . nice! This is actually a great point and I'll have to get Russ to share some info on what he does in order to keep his glasses from fogging up, 'cause he has a few products he's tried in the past. Thanks for the reminder.
Lots of great advice in this comment! Thanks for including it!
I agree, I don't think that the juice is worth the squeeze with MagicBand+. . . unless you can get it on a stellar deal. That said, one thing to keep in mind for your upcoming trip in May if you decide to go the route of using a SmartWatch is that it is not going to have full functionality of a MagicBand. You'll be able to use it in place of a park ticket, but you won't collect on ride photos or get any of the interactions. You also won't be able to use your SmartWatch to charge to your room. [Yes, you can use it to "tap to pay" like you would for any other purchase anywhere else, but it won't go onto your room if you're staying on property like it would if you have a MB.] These might be little things that don't matter much to you, but I figure it's worth mentioning because if you're expecting it to be a 1 for 1 swap from MB to SW. . . . it's not. The only other tidbit I can think of adding here when it come to the SmartWatch situation is to make sure you have backup ticket media just in case the watch isn't working. There was a time when I saw people struggle to get into the parks with their SmartWatch all the time and now it seems like people don't use it as an option hardly at all. . . but that's just my observation. Take it for what it's worth. :-)
We hope you have an awesome trip!
@@2foolishmortals always magical in the World! Thanks!!! Great points on the MB regarding keeping track of our spending. The all-in-one convenience of the MB is a huge up for making the stay more effortless. Love the straight-up band!
Great callout on glasses!
Magic Band +, I picked up one when it was on sale/clearance for $17, it wasn't a design I particularly cared for, but hey, it was cheap. Amazon sells stickers to cover the design if I so choose, so it wasn't a big deal. I carry my phone in a fanny pack and picked this up for the sole purpose of hotel/park/line entry without having to take my phone out all the time. Just the convenience. This function can be done with the standard magic band, but it was a good deal. These go on sale to reduce the overall price and sometimes you get "check-in" pricing on them when you book a park hotel so it isn't as painful.
Getting a MagicBand+ on sale is a GREAT way to go! Especially if you're not sure whether or not it's for you and if you've got a little one who doesn't care much about the design, though you can ABSOLUTELY get those stickers that you mentioned! Honestly, I love having a MagicBand for the exact reason you mentioned. Having everything that I need to get in and out of the parks and/or my room is just too convenient. PLUS having the ability to collect on-ride phones. . . if that's your thing. Of course, like you said, you can do it all with a regular MagicBand as well as the MagicBand+. . . so you don't really NEED the plus, but if you can get it on sale or at a good price? Why not!?
you described two of the interactive activities that you can use a MB for. maybe a video on the different interactive activities (like the duckTales on in EPCOT, the statues, the bounty hunt, etc.) would be good.
It's definitely on the list! Today, the focus was what you can specifically do with MagicBand+ and so I didn't want to get too into the weeds. Like I said though, it's definitely something we'll be getting into in the future. . . . 'cause there's a LOT going on in that PlayDisney app!
My youngest loved the light changes on he MB+. She was really excited. Also loved the colors when you go into certain ride queues.
Does drain the battery so charge every day.
We have not played the games but we did use when they had the 50th statues. Somewhat aggravating.
If you can deal with the cost, the littles ones will find it fun. Otherwise, not necessary.
The way that they light up with the show can definitely be magical! Though, I've found the queue/attraction interactions to be hit or miss. The statues though. . . . aggravating and disappointing for sure. I wish that, since they are peppered throughout the parks, they were more reliable. At least then I feel like it would make it feel like it was more worth it. Thanks for sharing your experience, :-)
I hardly ever get cold and I am going late April early May Advice
I ordered a Magic band ( the regular one) and got a magic band plus for $11
Didn't realize you guys were from Boston. We are from NH and starting to look at house in Central Fla. How are you liking the move?
Yup! We are originally from the Boston area, but we've lived all over the place. . goodness it's been like 20 years since we lived in MA.
We absolutely love living here! The weather is great, people are great and there's always something going on so that's a major plus for us. Of course, we are right in the action, which isn't for everyone. The beauty of FL though, especially Central FL, is that it's so diverse that you're never too far from what it is you're looking for and we find that really really nice. Good luck with your search! 😀
@@2foolishmortals I didn't realize this either! I just found your channel through YT recommendations while researching DVC; we're in Boston MetroWest and intentionally only go to FL in the late fall and midwinter because of weather 😂
Hey @@GoatChampJ1! WELCOME! Glad you found us. 🙂