You can check in as early as 6am!
We checked in just before 8am - your room may not be ready but you can pick up your FOLP and head straight to the parks, leaving your luggage with Bell Services.
Likewise, when you check out, just store your luggage again. The FOTL passes are yours to keep, so can be used until the park closes on your second day.
It's a great perk and we wouldn't visit Universal without an onsite stay now. Enjoy!