Hi Michelle! To Dining Plan or not to Dining Plan...that is the question. One that has been debated by many for years. The answer...it depends.
This will take some time and effort on your part but it's a fun exercise and will get you even more excited for your upcoming vacation. Plan out a tentative itinerary of your vacation and then look at the menus for the restaurants where you will most likely dine. Then, ask yourself a few questions:
1. What items would you order if you weren't on a
Disney Dining Plan? Do they match with what is included in the meal options based on the Dining Plan you will be selecting?
2. What is the overall cost of the meal (excluding tip because gratuities are typically not included in the Dining Plan meals)? Subtract any available Annual Pass discounts. Then - compare both options to determine which works best for you financially.
We receive Annual Pass and
Disney Vacation Club discounts. For the most part, we have found it to be a wash when looking at a Dining Plan vs. using our available discounts. One reason I do like the Dining Plans is because I pay for it in advance. For our upcoming Walt Disney World Resort vacation, I'm going to purchase
Disney Gift Cards in advance. This will help spread out my costs and resolve the prepayment question.
Whether you select a Disney Dining Plan or not, be sure to carry your Annual Pass Discount Card and photo ID with you and show it to the Cast Member whenever you check out anywhere at Walt Disney World Resort. You never know when a discount may be available and it won't hurt to ask.
Thanks so much for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Enjoy your Annual Pass! I know you are going to love it!