Kilimanjaro Safaris; Animal Kingdom; AA
  • On Jun 19, 2009
    Jaynee 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.

    I just read your answer on AAA room only discounts. If I do this, can I still book tickets and dining plan later on if no good deal comes along or will I have to buy al a cart? What should I do to save the most $$? Thanks for your suggestions.

    Jayne:

    Generally, if you book a "room-only" discount with Disney you can add on tickets, but not the Disney Dining Plan.  The Dining Plan can only be added onto a Magic Your Way Vacation package which includes resort accommodations at Disney and at least a one-day park ticket for everyone in your party.  FYI: Disney's cancellation policies for "room-only" reservations and vacation packages are different.  The good news is that, typically, the "room-only" reservations have less strings attached than the packages, so you shouldn't have a difficult time canceling/changing from the room-only ressie to the package if you find a better deal.

    To save money, my strategy is to subscribe to non-official Disney websites' newsletters like those found at www.mousesavers.com and www.allears.net to learn about upcoming vacation packages.  I also frequently visit www.disneyworld.com and check out its special offers section on the website.  I have found that when using the Disney website, I am only given the special discounts at checkout if I click on them through the special discounts link—unfortunately, I've found that they don't automatically happen.

    If you're looking to pinch every penny, I'd recommend the book, "Disney on a Dime," by Chris and Kristal Carlson.  They've got lots of strategies on saving money—granted some are for hard-core budgeteers, but overall, I found the book insightful.

    Of course, our own archives here at the Moms Panel has many tips under Budget Travel.  You'd be surprised how many questions/answers you may find that you never thought to ask!

    Wishing y'all a magical vacation!
    Whitney

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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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