Before going through the turnstiles at Disney you have to go through the security lines at the theme parks. It is not as involved as the airport so don’t be worried. In fact there is a spot for you to go around if you have NO bags. It is important to remember about the bag check and know how to get through quickly so you don’t get hung up. The different parks are set up differently so different strategies apply. Part of this will also depend how crowded it is and how many adults and children you have with you.
Types of Lines
They usually have the lines broken up into several sections. There is one place for people without bags. That means nothing. Not even a fanny pack. Then there is a separate line for strollers. You should have just one person go through with the stroller unless you just have one child in the stroller. Then there is a line for people walking with bags. Lastly, they sometimes have a line for wheelchairs/scooters but they can be combined with strollers.
Scanners
When you go through with your bag you will walk through the scanner with your bag. Watch for signs on what needs to come out of your bag. This changes from time to time. Usually the large insulated water bottles, umbrellas, and glasses cases have to come out but this changes so watch for signs. If you have those items you can hold it out in front of you, away from your body.
After you walk through they will either let you pass or pull you aside for further inspection. That is where they will go through your items with a security guard.
The Plan
It is good to have a plan that works for your family. You may split up in two groups like stroller and bags or bags and no bags. Have a plan and a meet up spot. You should even have a plan for if someone gets pulled for further inspection so the little ones don’t get separated. When we travel with the teens we just meet up/wait for each other just past security so we can all get through and then regroup before going to the park.
If you get pulled for further inspection, ask what triggered it and how you can do it differently. If you can get the hang of how to handle your items best, you may save yourself a lot of time in the long run.
Security Lines at Theme Park Locations
The security locations vary and can move around. Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom have one way in and the security area is just outside the main entrance.
At Magic Kingdom there are lots of different location outside of where you enter the park. If coming in by monorail you will probably do your security before you board the monorail (either at the resort or at the TTC). But, if you come by boat you will probably do it right as you exit the boats. When you walk in you will hit a check point on the walking path. If you come by ferry you will do the security before you board the ferry at the ticket and transportation center. If you come by Disney bus you will do security after you get off the buses before you get to the main gate. Most importantly, this can all change and additional check points can be added.
At Epcot there is security after you get off the monorail or if you come in by bus. If you come by skyliner or walk in through the international gateway there is another checkpoint there.
Security lines at the theme parks can be a hard way to start the day but with a little planning and smart packing you can make it go smoothly and quickly.
