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Mom And Daughter; Animal Kingdom
  • On Jan 9, 2009
    Jacqueline from NE 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.

    Hello! We are trying to see if we could even afford a trip to Disney. I am needing the most economical way to eat without taking out all the "magic". Is the meal plan the best way to go? There are 4 kids...8,6,4,and 2. THANK YOU!!

    Hi, Jacqueline!  I want to assure you first of all that your children will have a magical time at Walt Disney World no matter what they are eating!  With everything else there is to see and do, I'm not even sure my kids are aware of what they're eating when they finally sit still long enough to get a meal into them!

    The value of the dining plan really depends on your family's eating habits.  We have always found that for our family, the dining plan is way too much food, and we've always felt we've wasted so much!  My kids are fairly light breakfast eaters, so we usually do something quick in our room before we head out.  I bring breakfast or protein bars with me, some cold cereals, apples and bananas, and then I pick up some yogurt and juice when I get down there.  If you are an All Star family suite, you'll have a small refrigerator that you can put these things in, as well as a microwave to heat up some oatmeal.

    Most days, I take snacks with me into the parks.  I keep my backpack filled with crackers, nuts, and raisins, along with a couple of bottles of water that can be refilled at the fountains, and maybe a couple of juice boxes.  You can do counter service lunch and dinner, which is less expensive, and there are still ways there to split meals and save money.  Even though the menu will show combo meals, you can order sandwiches without the extras to save a little bit of money.  You may even find with a two year old, it's worth it to head back to the resort and make sandwiches in your room for lunch, giving everyone a much needed break from the hot Florida sunshine.

    Lastly, if you want to do something truly magical for a meal, book one character meal.  Choose a breakfast or a lunch, which will be less expensive than a dinner.  The kids will all have a blast, you won't feel like you've broken the budget with just one splurge, and the character interaction will give you the magical memories you're hoping for!
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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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