Back in the summer, Universal starting changing up their lockers at select attractions to now include two different sizes – a Standard Locker and a Large Locker. At the attractions with both sizes, guests now have to pay $2 while riding the attraction, while the smaller sized locker remains free. Prior to the changes, the large lockers were free during the duration of any attraction that doesn’t allow bags on the ride.
Using crude calculations from the measure app on an iPhone, the opening of the small locker is approximately 5″ x 13″ and the large locker is approximately 10″ x 12″. The large locker will be able to accommodate larger bags easier, but the small lockers can still hold a lot with some precision packing. Obviously cups would have to be empty and sideways to fit. Popcorn buckets can fit as well with the lid removed and the proper approach, but this will surely affect you if you overpack when visiting the theme parks.
There are options rather than paying the $2 for the large locker. First, you could consider renting one of the lockers at the front of the park for the entire day. It will cost you around $10 dollars, but if you frequent attractions where you’ll need a large locker then it could save money in the long run. The second, option is doing a bag swap – same concept as a child swap, but with a bag instead.
If you would like to voice your concern about the new locker policy at Universal Orlando, you can stop by Guest Services at the parks to leave feedback, email them by visiting this website – http://www.visitorsatisfaction.com/contactus/, or you can call them at (407) 224-4233 during park hours.
How about designing the rides so that bags can be brought on them? Disney has shown it is possible.
Exactly! Universal makes a rule that bags cannot be carried on rides and then charges a fee to accommodate the rule.
The third option is not bringing a bag at all, thereby bypassing the lockers altogether.
Hard for some with jobs or kids. That would be possible if food prices were less. For regulars that live close enough I agree with you.
Whether the lockers are free or cost money, they are such a hassle to use and then get back to. This is my Universal hack: bring one of those wind breakers that packs up into its own pocket. It’s so light that it’s not unbearable to wear for a little while even if it’s a very hot day. When you go on a ride, you can just throw it on and put all your stuff in the pockets (think: phone, keys, wallet, charger, smaller water bottle). And voila! Your stuff is safe and you don’t need to use a locker. I realize that doesn’t work for people carrying backpacks or diaper bags, but if you can go without some things the windbreaker method is a good go-to.
Except for the rides where you pass through a metal detector and those objects in your pockets will stop you from riding.. then you HAVE to get a locker.
My wife and I encountered this issue on the Mummy ride the day it changed. We ended up splitting our stuff into 2 of the free small lockers.