• On Apr 5, 2018
    Carol from IN 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.

    My husband and I will be staying in a DVC suite this fall. We prefer to be spontaneous with dining and decide where to eat depending on where we are that day . Would it be worth it to purchase a dining plan?

    Hi there, Carol! You have come to a panel of planners to ask if you should forego planning? I like your style.

    It seems that a trip to Walt Disney World is all about reservations and schedules, and while some of us (me) thrive on that kind of vacation, others (the whole rest of my family) prefer to be spontaneous. Whether or not you purchase one of the Disney Dining Plans has more to do with how committed your are to your spontaneous plan.

    Even on Christmas day, I have been able to find last minute reservations SOMEWHERE at Walt Disney World. I may not get a time I want or a restaurant I prefer, but with your My Disney Experience phone app, you can do a quick search for available restaurants. If you're okay with not getting into a specific restaurant, and you have the flexibility to travel to a resort for a table service meal, I would say the dining plan might work for you.

    If, on the other hand, you are committed to staying in, let's say, the Magic Kingdom, you may want to consider if the dining plan is right for you. Unlike Epcot, table service options are more limited here. If you haven't made an advanced dining reservation at the Magic Kingdom, you may end up at a counter service location, which may throw off your dining credits elsewhere during your stay.

    This is not to say the plan is not workable regardless. If you're willing to be flexible, maybe travel to a resort for a table service meal, and don't mind waiting for a table, go for the dining plan!

    Have fun!

    Anna
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Meet the Panelist: Anna, New Jersey

My name is Anna and I am a retired teacher with a J.D., a proud Navy wife with 30+ years of experience, mom to three daughters and a son-in-law, and grandmom to three tiny Disney fans. I have planned vacations for all sorts of special occasions and celebrations, but I really enjoy DVC vacations, helping military families, and assisting those with special dietary needs.    Learn More About Anna

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