There are few tricks that you’ll need to be able to get here…Even though Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance has been open for a couple of months now, Boarding Groups are still filling up just a minute or two after Disney’s Hollywood Studios opens each morning. There are a couple of things that you can do to increase your chances of getting a spot for you and your group.
The most important thing is that you need to make sure that you have the latest version of the My Disney Experience App. Older versions are not compatible with the system, and you will not be able to join a group. Make sure you have the latest version the night before so that you aren’t trying to upgrade while others are grabbing their spots.
Many people say that they have more success if they turn off Wi-Fi and use their cell phone’s data instead. I haven’t done this personally, but I think that this is great advice. Walt Disney World Wi-Fi is wonky on a good day, if there are thousands of people on it at the same time it is going to slow things down. That part I do know from experience.
If you’re with a group, everyone needs to be scanned into the park in order to be in your Boarding Group. Since you’re all in the park already, have everyone try for a Boarding Group for the whole party. The system will not allow you to sign up for more than one group a day, so as soon as someone is in you will all be set.
This tip I learned from the incredible Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Facebook page that I’m part of. If you have an iPhone, make sure that you turn off the AirDrop feature. It looks like there are some unscrupulous people out there who are AirDropping things to those around them the moment that Boarding Groups open. That will then pop up on multiple phones, stalling them for a few moments. Those few moments could be the difference between getting a low number and getting into a Backup Group. I am disgusted by this thought, Disney and Star Wars fans should have a higher moral standard than that. If you don’t want to turn off AirDrop all the way, set it to “contacts only”.
Once you have a Boarding Group, make sure that notifications are turned on. Even then, keep checking the My Disney Experience App often. You will want to know where they are on the list, which will also give you a better idea of when your own group will be called.
There is no word on how long Disney will continue to use Boarding Groups at either version of Rise of the Resistance. One thing is sure, though, the popularity of the new ride is not dying down in the least. If you plan to ride, make sure you follow these tips, and also arrive early. This is one ride that is worth the extra effort.