Hi, Colleen!
Your
Disney Dining Plan credits are good from the time you check-in until midnight of your departure day. Feel free to use your credits anytime during that period. Your credit balance will conveniently be printed at the bottom of your dining receipts so you know exactly how many credits remain. Now remember, those credits will expire at midnight of your check-out day so use them all up prior to going home.
I would like to clarify the credits. While you do get a beverage with each quick service credit, it must be obtained when purchasing your quick service meal (it is not a separate credit). The snack credits can be used whenever you wish (as a dessert with your quick service meal or just a quick Mickey Ice Cream bar or popcorn - it's up to you!)
Your refillable beverage mug can be obtained at your resort's food court. Simply tap your MagicBand and each guest on the Disney Dining Plan will get their mug. I suggest getting this right away so you can start enjoying your tasty soft drinks, coffee, and tea. Mugs are not refillable in the theme parks, so drop your mug in your room before heading out.
Just because you are dining "quick service" certainly does not mean burgers and fries for each meal. Try the delicious rice bowls at
Satu'li Canteen in Animal Kingdom or rotisserie chicken with green beans and potatoes at
Cosmic Rays in the Magic Kingdom, or any number of international dishes in World Showcase in Epcot. You are going to love all the choices!
Wishing you happy dining during your magical Walt Disney World vacation!
Cathy