What's in a WDW Resort Check-In "Welcome Packet"?

[Weather_Lady]

In discussions of on-line check-in, I've seen a number of references to the "welcome packet" or folder you receive when checking-in to a WDW resort. The consensus seems to be that if you are a newbie, you should do conventional check-in so a cast member can explain the contents of the packet to you, but that if you are an experienced visitor, on-line check-in is fine because you don't need to have the packet reviewed for you.

I haven't been to WDW in 5 years, but I'm not a "newbie" in terms of knowledge of the resort layout, parks, how to use our Key to the World cards, etc., and am trying to figure out whether we need to take the time for a regular check-in. So my question is, what exactly is IN your welcome packet, and what parts of it might require a cast member's explanation?

Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[real mad hatter]

Well I've got all mine from previous vacations.They contain map of your resort,a brochure explaining what's at your resort,food court,shops,etc.Nice Souvineer to keep all your paper work in,park maps and the like.

 

[LowesChevy]

Real Mad Hatter hit the nail on the head with the contents-recreation and activity times, restaurant hours, park hours etc.. If you online check in-you essentially are giving them the credit card you wish to have your charges placed on ahead of time, it saves some time in the check in line because they already have your basic information. The CMs will always show where your room is on the provided resort map, feel free to ask any questions at any time. I never found the online check in to provide any less information-they just have you preregistered and already moved into your vacation folder.

For any other questions-the concierge desk CMs are there to help as well.

 

[Weather_Lady]

Thank you both - that's what I needed to know!

 

[DisDadEddie]

It's just your basic information needed for your vacation. Nothing special!

 

[real mad hatter]

Thank you both - that's what I needed to know!

I've got four of them from past vacations,great for keeping park maps & all paper stuff that you can refer back to.

 

[disney magic 06]

Yes, as everyone said, it is just general information about the resort and WDW in general and is totally self explanatory especially as you are familiar with WDW.

We did online check in this year for the first time. When I went to collect our envelope the CM started by saying 'Oh lucky you, you have a room upgrade'. He then got the maps etc out of the envelope, and started to go through them, then looked at me and said 'but you know all that, you have stayed at Wilderness Lodge before'. He put it all away again and handed me the envelope. Gave us a laugh anyway!

 

[Acolli18]

This is a good time to get any celebration pins you would like for the week also. There was also a birthday card in the packet for myself, which was pretty cool (It was noted on my account when I booked the trip).