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Mom and daughter on Expedition Everest; Animal Kingdom
  • On Dec 22, 2010
    Sherry from AL Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We are camping for the 1st time at Disney in April 2011. We will be going to Disney for 4-5 days and to Universal 2 days. We can't decide if it would be worth the money to do the meal plan (quick service). It would be for all 7 days. Any suggestions?

    Sherry:

    I am ALWAYS tempted to try and talk my husband into getting the meal plan when we camp because I'm on vacation and sometimes the last thing I want to do is cook!  However, as the mom in a family of 6, I not only look at ease but I also scrutinize value. Typically, we will plan at least one or two meals at the site and, therefore, the meal plan quickly loses its value.

    I am a fan of the Basic Dining Plan, but not the Quick Service plan nor the Deluxe Plan. For the price, the Quick service plan doesn't add up, especially at Fort Wilderness. Here's why:
    • The plan provides 2 counter-service meals a day per person, 2 snacks and a refillable mug. The average combo meal costs about $10 or $11, snacks run from $3 to $4. Mugs cost $13.99 without the plan--over 7 days it's paid for itself in the plan. There's just no savings as I see it.
    • If you want to fill up your mug at Fort Wilderness, you potentially have quite a walk to Trail's End or the pool. It's not good in the parks. With a campsite, why have a mug?
    • How are you going to use your credits when you're at Universal? You're going to pay out-of-pocket possibly for at least one meal. The dining plan is based on the nights of your stay. You'll be double-paying.
    • Are you REALLY not going to cook a meal while camping? If you do, you instantly lose more value.
    To me, paying out-of-pocket for food while camping at Fort Wilderness is still the best way to go.
    Whitney
thumbnail image for Whitney

Meet the Panelist: Whitney, Mississippi

My family of 6 appreciates Disney's value! Although Ft. Wilderness is our second home, we've enjoyed the resorts for business, reunions and romantic getaways. For me, Disney also means dining: last count, I'd eaten at 55 restaurants around the World! Learn More About Whitney

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