Walt Disney World Resort hotels add an extra layer of magic to a theme park vacation, inviting guests to enjoy a 24/7 immersive escape into a world of fantasy. Over the years, exclusive perks have become a significant part of what makes staying at a Disney Resort hotel special. Unfortunately, many of these benefits disappeared over the last decade, and some have yet to return.
If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World soon, here’s what you need to know about the Disney Resort perks that have been reinstated and those still on pause.
1. Soap Bottles: No More Free Souvenirs
A seemingly small change, but one that many Disney Resort guests have noticed, is the switch from individual H2O+ beauty products to larger, wall-mounted bottles in hotel rooms.
What’s Changed?
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Before: Guests were given individual shampoo bottles, conditioner, and body wash.
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Now: These products are now available in permanent bottles attached to the shower wall.
While it’s not a dealbreaker for most, those who enjoyed collecting the small bottles of Disney-scented products will need to make a change. If you’re a fan of bringing home free souvenirs from your stay, you’ll need to pack your own bottle to refill.
This also means you’ll have to pack a little differently, as you won’t need to leave space for those small bottles anymore.
Pro Tip: Bring an empty bottle from home if you’d like to take home some Disney Resort products!
2. Package Delivery: Carry Your Purchases Through the Parks
In the past, one of the biggest perks of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort was the ability to have your purchases delivered directly to your hotel. Whether you were picking up a giant Stitch plush from the Magic Kingdom Park or purchasing a lightsaber in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, this service allowed you to shop without worrying about carrying your bags all day.
What’s Changed?
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Before: Purchases could be sent directly to your Disney Resort hotel or the front of the park for pickup later.
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Now: Guests must carry their purchases with them through the parks. No more shipping items to your Resort or Guest Relations for later pickup.
While this might not be a huge inconvenience for some, it can be a hassle if you plan on doing extensive shopping in the parks. If you’re purchasing large or fragile items, such as lightsabers or plush dolls, you’ll need to carry them with you throughout your day in the park.
Quick Tip for Returning Guests: Plan your shopping around your schedule, or consider making purchases later in the day to avoid carrying items for too long. Locker rentals are available at the front of most Disney parks if you have any belongings you want to store.
3. Airline Check-In: A Missing Perk We’re Happy to See Return
One of the most convenient perks of staying at a Disney Resort was the ability to check in for your flight and send your luggage to the airport directly from your hotel. This service allowed guests to check their bags in the morning, enjoy a few hours in the parks, and then head straight to TSA at the airport, skipping the hassle of check-in.
What’s Changed?
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Before: Guests could check in for their flight, print boarding passes, and send their luggage to the airport from their Resort hotel.
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Now: This service has returned for a small pilot program as of 2025. Guests flying Southwest Airlines can check in and drop off their bags at select Value Resort hotels, including Disney’s Pop Century Resort.
Quick Tip for Returning Guests: If you plan on using this service, be sure to check with your Resort for specific instructions on participating and eligibility. Bags usually need to be checked in much earlier than they do at the airport!
4. No Room Service: A Familiar Disney Perk That’s Not Quite the Same
Room service was once a delightful perk for Disney Resort guests. After a long day in the parks, having a meal delivered straight to your room was a treat. However, this service has not fully returned across all hotels.
What’s Changed?
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Before: Guests could order food and beverages delivered to their rooms.
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Now: Room service has been reinstated at select locations, including Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, but may not be available at all hotels.
While you can still enjoy your meal in the comfort of your room by Mobile Ordering and picking up, the full room service experience has only returned to some hotels. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort where room service was once a regular treat, check with the front desk to see if any options are currently available.
Pro Tip: If room service isn’t available, you can still use Mobile Ordering to quickly pick up food and bring it back to your room.
5. Magical Express: No More Free Airport Rides
Disney’s Magical Express, operated by Mears, shuttled guests between Disney Resort hotels and Orlando International Airport (MCO). Unfortunately, Walt Disney World Resort retired the service in 2022.
What’s Changed?
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Before: Guests could get free, magical rides to MCO directly from their Disney Resort hotels.
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Now: Guests without a rental car must rely on rideshare, taxis, or a third-party shuttle service to and from MCO.
While you can still use Mears to travel between your Disney Resort hotel and MCO, it’s not the immersive or free experience it once was.
How to Plan Your Disney Resort Stay Around These Missing Perks
Although these perks are not currently available, you can adjust your plans to ensure your Walt Disney World Resort vacation is still full of magic.
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For Shopping: Plan your purchases for the later part of the day so you’re not carrying large items around all day.
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For Travel Days: Remember to allow extra time to check in at the airport, and that bell services can hold your luggage if needed. Plan to secure your own transportation to and from MCO.
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For Room Service: Make use of convenient Mobile Ordering and enjoy dining in your room without missing out on the fun.
With some planning and flexibility, your Disney Resort stay can still be filled with the magic that makes Walt Disney World so special.
Which Disney Resort perks do you miss the most? Let How to Disney know in the comments!
