Hi there, Deana, and welcome to planDisney! It sounds like you're in the beginning phase of planning your vacation to the Most Magical Place On Earth! If you're anything like me or my friends here at planDisney, you'll find that the planning is a huge part of the fun!
Deana, I'm so glad you're interested in
dining plans. Since their return a couple of weeks ago, they've been wildly popular - for good reason! I love using a dining plan during my vacation to help me plan ahead and take advantage of savings. You seem to be familiar with both types of the dining plan: the
Disney Dining Plan and the
Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan. While I tend to prefer the Disney Dining Plan because I love a relaxing Table-Service meal, the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan is great for folks who like to be a bit more on-the-go.
When you add a dining plan to your vacation package, you'll be able to choose either the Disney Dining Plan or the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan for the length of your stay. Your meals and snacks will be based on the number of nights in your stay. So, if your reservation is for four nights, that will determine the amount of meals and snacks you receive in the dining plan you choose.
However, there is an option if you'd like to try both types of dining plan during your next vacation. Many guests enjoy splitting their stay between two different resorts, because it allows them to have two totally different experiences with theming, location, restaurants, and more. Walt Disney World Resort actually makes this easy, because Bell Services will move your luggage from one
Disney Resorts Collection Hotel to another, while you enjoy your day at the Theme Parks. It's easier than saying, "Bibbidi, bobbidi, boo!" Since you'd have two separate hotel reservations, you'd be able to choose which dining plan you want to accompany that stay. Remember, your meals and snacks can be used at any time during that stay, up until midnight on the day you check out. If you're moving to a new resort, remember that your meals and snacks will reset at midnight, just like Fairy Godmother's magic spell!
Deana, I hope this answer has been helpful. Please come back by with any other questions you have about planning your upcoming vacation. I'm always thrilled to give recommendations, especially when they involve meals, snacks, and beverages!
Have a magical day!
Jennifer