Magical Express - worth it!

For years, we have been drivers.  We would fly into Florida, grab a car, and drive ourselves.  But, with 2 kids, that would mean lugging 2 heavy carseats (or renting...) and dragging them all to a car with our luggage and the two kids.

The decision was easy: We would take Disney's Magical Express

Getting through the airport without even thinking about our luggage or renting a car was awesome. 

Making our way towards the Magical Express terminal was easy.

And, we waited under 10 (20?) minutes to board our bus and head towards our resort.

Staying at Old Key West, the bus also hosted those staying at Port Orleans and Saratoga Springs.  Luckily, we were dropped off first (Hooray!) and made it to check just over an hour after landing at MCO.

I've heard horror stories - long lines, long waits, crowded buses... But, we had none of that!  Short line, short wait, easy drive.  

Happily awaiting our journey!

Our final day heading back to the airport, I called the night before to change flight info - our flight number was incorrect/had changed/whoops on my part - and it was changed super easily.   We checked our luggage at the airport and it was loaded on a truck before we left the resort!  Again, we were able to go through the airport without dealing with a bit of luggage until we landed back home!

My only complaint -  Our luggage.  Yeah, yeah - they tell you it could take up to 3 hours.  So, by 3.5 hours, I was a little frustrated.  I didn't plan well enough ahead - our pack 'n play sheets were in the luggage.  So was the sound machine.... we did pack sleepers and sleep diapers, but that's it!  We had a monitor, stuffed animals, sheets, etc. all in the luggage. 

Ready to go!

Our luggage arrived at our door right as I was calling bell services to double check it wasn't lost.  So, I right as our patience was gone, they delivered - 4+ hours after we landed.  Had our flight been earlier in the day, this wouldn't have been a problem at all, so it really wasn't bad!

Pros:

• Included in resort price - if you're staying at a Disney resort, it's free airport transportation!
• Skip bag claim - if it has a Magical Express tag, it will be picked up - carseats, strollers, etc...!
• No need to rent a car - save $$
• No need to have car seats for kids!

Cons:

• May have to wait or sit on a crowded bus
• May have multiple bus stops after the 40 minute drive from the airport to WDW
• Approx. 3 hours to get your luggage - could be less, but could be more!
• Doesn't operate after 10 p.m.

Overall, we really appreciated our Magical Express trips!  I love this free service and it definitely adds value to staying on property!!