Hi Emily,
Welcome to planDisney! Thanks for stopping by with your question about the
Disney Dining Plan. The Dining Plan is a great way to set a budget for your meals and to experience a variety of restaurants with flexibility! Let’s take a closer look at how the Dining Plan works.
I have great news, Emily, Dining Plan credits are flexible! You’ll receive your full allotment of meal and snack entitlements at check-in, and they won't expire until midnight on the day you check out. So, if you arrive too late to enjoy a table-service meal on your first day, you will have no problem using that credit later in your trip. That means you could enjoy two table-service meals on the same day, or even splurge on a Signature dining experience that uses two credits per person.
My family has done something similar when we’ve had a late arrival - it’s a great way to enjoy an extra sit-down meal another day or to try out a Character Dining experience without worrying about going over your plan.
Bon appétit and happy planning! If you have any other questions along the way, we’re always here to help at planDisney.
Cheers,
Candace