The much-anticipated Lightning Lane MultiPass and Single Pass went live today, July 24th, at 7 AM. This new system allows resort guests to make Lightning Lane reservations 7 days in advance and regular ticketed guests 3 days in advance. Here are our initial thoughts.
Pros of the New System
Scheduled Times Before Payment: When you choose your initial three Lightning Lanes, the times are listed and locked in prior to payment authorization. This is different from the previous system, where the Lightning Lane return time you chose and the actual time could be vastly different due to the time it took to process payment.
Modify Before Payment: You can modify the Lightning Lane return times before processing your payment. Just keep in mind you will lose your initial time once you do this.
Simplified Planning: You no longer have to juggle Lightning Lane reservations and Virtual Queues at the same time.
Easier Day Planning: Planning your days in advance will be easier. You will be able to have an initial plan in place and not be at the whim of the Genie any longer.
Cons of the New System
Limited Availability for Off-Property Guests: Based on initial data shared by Thrill Data on their website, Lightning Lane availability will be minimal for those who are staying off Disney property. We will continue to monitor the information released from our favorite resources, but staying at a Disney resort will be strongly recommended. These resorts include all Disney World Resorts plus Walt Disney World Swan Hotel, Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, and Shades of Green Resort.
Earlier Sell-Outs for Single Passes: It appears Lightning Lane Single Passes will sell out earlier compared to before. These attractions include TRON: Lightcycle Run, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Rise of the Resistance, and Avatar: Flight of Passage.
Need for Advance Planning: If you don’t like to plan, you are out of luck. You will need to have a plan prior to your vacation to ensure you get to experience the most popular attractions.
Final Thoughts
We highly recommend you consider using this new Lightning Lane system in at least two of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World. Personally, I recommend it for all four. Disney has made it easier for guests to be in the moment with their families and experience magic together. I look forward to using this new system.
What do you think of the new Lightning Lane MultiPass? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
