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Mom And Son Running through park; RunDisney; incredibles shirt
  • On Nov 1, 2015
    Jclyn from NY 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.

    I am going to Disney for the first time. I am bringing my mom and my 5 yo twins. We want to do some character dining, should I get a dining plan?

    Jaclyn:

    I don't always recommend the Disney Dining Plan, however, your traveling party is one of the times I do recommend it. Here's why:

    • Value: The dining plan is cheaper for children under the age of 9 than paying out of pocket when you use it for buffets and Character meals for them. In fact, you more than pay for it for the day, gaining, essentially, a quick service meal and snack for "free." Additionally, guests lose value when they don't make advance dining reservations and just "go-with-the-flow" for dining. When they can't find a table restaurant, they settle on a quick service meal instead, losing the value of the plan. Because you are thinking ahead and planning Character meals and making dining reservations, you're less likely to leave meals up in the air and therefore, more likely to get the most value out of the plan.
    • You're traveling with relatives: Bringing grandma to Disney can be tricky. Sometimes grandparents want to pay and other times you want it to be your treat. Having the dining plan alleviates any argument that may arise over who's going to pay.
    • Budgeting. If you're going to Disney for the first time, it is difficult to know much money to bring for meals, souvenirs and snacks. While purchasing the dining plan up front may seem expensive, you won't have surprises on your credit card when you get home.This adds to the relaxation of your vacation.

    If you're a numbers cruncher, there is excellent analysis on the Disney dining plan at www.touringplans.com. I also recommend that you take a look at some of the comparisons there.

    Wishing y'all a magical vacation!
    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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