Kilimanjaro Safaris; Animal Kingdom; AA
  • On Jun 3, 2008
    Christina from IL 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 leaving in February w/ our 3 kids ages 2, 4 & 6. I have asked 8 different couples and I am at a 50/50 split on the following question. Since the kids are that young and do not eat all that much, is it worth it to pay for the meal plan for the

    It's hard to say because I don't know exactly how little they eat, but here's my take.

    The kids dining plan is $9.99/day.  Kids meals are at least $3.99 each and often more - and this is only at quick service restaurants.  If you go to a character meal you must pay the child's rate for all kids over 3, so at the Crystal Palace dinner, for example, that would be $12.99 each (prices as of February 08).  On that meal alone you have saved by having the dining plan, yet the plan would also provide a counter service meal and a snack - all for less than the cost of that one table service meal.

    So yes, it is possible for the kids to eat for less than the $9.99 per day, but is it likely?  Definitely not for my family. 

    The biggest factor in deciding on the dining plan, in my opinion, is what type of restaurant you want to enjoy.  If you plan on eating at quick service locations (fast food type meals) then you can pay cash as you go and save money.  If you're like my family and you want to eat at table service locations, then the dining plan is great.  Not only does it save money, but it makes budgeting very easy since you know your food costs up front.

    Good luck with your decision!
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Meet the Panelist: Heather, Kentucky

I'm a member of the original 2008 Moms Panel and am happy to be back again to help you plan! We are DVC members who visit 2-3 times per year with our 3 young daughters, and I am only one visit away from being able to say I've stayed in every Disney resort! Learn More About Heather

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