Leaving Disney World is definitely bittersweet.

After days of magic, fireworks, and snacks galore, checkout day sneaks up faster than you can say “Mickey pretzel.” While Disney does a great job of handling the details, there are a few “unwritten rules” you’ll want to keep in mind as you pack up and prepare to head home. These will help to make your departure day smooth, stress-free, and maybe even a little magical.

Snag That Bounceback Offer

If you’ve ever left Disney World dreaming about your next trip, a bounceback offer is the ultimate way to make it happen. This special deal gives you a chance to book a future Disney vacation at a discount – but you have to act fast! You’ll need to book within 7 days of your current hotel stay to lock it in.

Here’s how the savings break down:

• 25% off at Value Resorts
• 30% off at Moderate Resorts
• 35% off at Deluxe Resorts and Deluxe Villas

Here’s a look at the dates for which guests will be able to book their bounceback offer in 2025:

• January 2-8, 2025
• January 13-16, 2025
• January 20-23, 2025
• January 26-30, 2025
• Februry 2-6, 2025
• February 9-13, 2025
• February 16-19, 2025
• February 23 – May 22, 2025
• May 26 – July 2, 2025
• July 7 – August 28, 2025
• September 1-30, 2025
• October 26-31, 2025
• November 1-26, 2025
• November 30 – December 24, 2025

To book, just call the number on the offer card in your room or visit the front desk. Think of it as Disney’s way of saying, “We miss you already. Come back soon!”

Ask About Late Checkout

Not ready to leave the magic behind? Sometimes 11 AM feels like way too early to head out, especially if your flight isn’t until later. Good news: Disney hotels often allow late checkouts.

You’ll need to ask the front desk or call Guest Services early in the morning on checkout day to see if they can extend your stay a bit longer. Keep in mind that late checkout isn’t guaranteed, so flexibility is key. But hey, it doesn’t hurt to ask – and sometimes an extra hour or two can make all the difference.

Leave Your Bags with Bell Services

Got a late flight or plans to hit the parks one last time? Instead of lugging your suitcases around, drop them off with Bell Services. Disney hotels offer complimentary luggage storage so you can enjoy the day hands-free. Whether you’re heading to Disney Springs, lounging by the pool, or squeezing in one last ride, this service is a lifesaver.

Just remember to leave a little extra time to pick up your bags before heading to the airport. Bell Services will take great care of your stuff, but you’ll want to avoid a last-minute rush.

Double-Check Your Room (Especially the Fridge!)

We’ve all been there: you’re halfway home when you realize you left your favorite souvenir mug, your phone charger, or (gasp) your leftovers in the fridge.

Before you leave, take a moment to give your room one final sweep. Check all the usual suspects:

• Drawers
• Closets
• Under the bed
• The bathroom
• And yes, the mini fridge!

Those Mickey-shaped treats are just too magical to waste.

Charge All Your Devices

After days of navigating the My Disney Experience app, snapping photos, and so much more, your devices have probably been working overtime. The last thing you want is a dead phone at the airport when you need to check in, confirm your flight, or call for a ride.

Plug in everything (phones, tablets, portable chargers) the night before and give them a final top-off in the morning. Trust us, future you will thank you when you’re stress-free at the gate.

Schedule Your Rideshare in Advance

Speaking of the airport, don’t wait until the last minute to arrange your ride. Orlando International Airport (MCO) can get busy, and the last thing you want is to scramble for an Uber or Lyft while balancing bags and saying goodbye to Mickey.

Most rideshare apps let you schedule a pickup in advance (even up to 90 days in advance), so you’ll have a driver ready and waiting when you are. Here’s how it works on Uber:

• Open the app and click the “Reserve” button on the “Services” screen.
• Choose your pickup time and location.
• Confirm your reservation (you can even cancel up to 60 minutes before without penalties).

Scheduling a ride can save you from unnecessary stress and ensure you get to the airport on time.

Breeze Through Airport Security with TSA PreCheck

Nothing kills the post-Disney buzz faster than a long, chaotic security line at Orlando International Airport (MCO). If you travel frequently, investing in TSA PreCheck is a no-brainer. It costs $78 for a five-year membership ($70 for online renewals), and the perks are pretty great – no removing your shoes, belts, or laptops, and usually a much shorter line.

For the best experience, apply for TSA PreCheck well before your trip. Once approved, add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your flight reservation, and you’ll sail through security faster than you can say “Expedition Everest.”

Skip the Line with MCO Reserve

Not into TSA PreCheck? You can still skip the regular security line at MCO with MCO Reserve. This free service allows you to book a time slot for an exclusive security checkpoint line, and it’s definitely a game-changer during peak travel times.

The reservations open 72 hours before your flight, and spots fill up quickly, so set a reminder to snag your slot as soon as possible. It’s one less thing to stress about on travel day, and it gives you more time to grab a coffee or browse the airport shops.

Checking out of your Disney World hotel doesn’t have to be stressful. If you can keep these unwritten rules in mind, you’ll leave feeling organized, prepared, and maybe even a little ahead of the game.

In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more.

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Will you be visiting Disney World in 2025? Let us know in the comments!