Advantages to online check in?

[daisyx3]

We will be 3 weeks out on Tuesday and we can check in online. I've never used this. We are used to getting to the resort around noonish (our flight arrives at 1115). Is there any real advantage to checking in online?
Daisyx3

 

[abarnes64]

Perhaps in the case of split reservations, the check in online lets hotel know you've arrived a d if you are at park then you can go to front desk much later when you get back from park?

That is what I understood. I had to split points and make to cash reservations in order to make an 8 nt stay

 

[CarolMN]

When we've used online check-in, we are greeted by name as we get off the Magical Express bus and escorted to the check in desk. It usually seems to take a bit less time (but not always).

Requests seem to be granted about the same percentage of the time no matter which check in method we use. I always make requests through MS and ignore any request fields during the online check-in process.

For me the largest advantage to online check-in, is the ability to type in my own credit card number for charging to the room and express checkout. When I use online check-in, I do not have to give my credit card to the CM at the front desk. (There have been reports of front desk CMs arrested for participating in identity theft / credit card theft). I know that is a small risk, but it is one I can eliminate.

In summary, it really doesn't matter which way you check in. (Disney prefers online check-in as it saves them time & money, LOL). It's just personal preference.

 

[disneynutz]

I don't see any advantage. We did a split stay last December, didn't do online check in at VGF and they had our name when we got off of the DME bus. At BWV did online check in, they still needed out credit card so I think it depends on several factors.

I think that cost savings and expediting check ins at convention resorts was the reason for the program. I think that they also want guests to just take their packet and go without requesting a room change.

Bill