Disney dining plan what do you think?

[Six_Castles_Wish]

There's so many options for eating and drinking whilst on Disney properties. For some it's great using the Disney dining plan. Currently it's not operating, but with the symbol still being placed on menus, it may come back. Is it something people use, are there tricks to using it, is it something that isn't for you? What are your experiences with the dining plan?

[Wilderness_Explorer]

I think the dining plan will return. Disney makes money on it, and occasionally guests get their money’s worth. Often, you need to select the most expensive options to actually make the plans worth wile financially. That being said, I do believe that the dining plan is still valuable for some guests because of the ability to pay in advance. It’s nice to go on vacation and knowing food has already been paid for. Often though, guests will not use all of their dining credits and they do not get reimbursed for that... making it a serious waste of money. If it comes back, I’d only recommend it for families that have really analyzed the amount of food each member of their party typically eats. Keep in mind, the dining plan is a bit restrictive - not all menu items are eligible, and of the items that are, many would cost much less to purchase on their own that the full value of a credit.

[Six_Castles_Wish]

I agree, the plan can be restrictive. I know a couple where she can't eat a lot & he can eat a load. I've advised then to pay as they go because if she is having a moment where she can't eat a lot, she could always order a child's portion.

[Jay Nashville]

It will come back for sure, as it wasn't a great financial deal. We used it sometimes, depending on what our plans were. Sometimes you can save a little, other times you can't. All depends on where you eat at.

[Six_Castles_Wish]

I also liked the fact that if you had any unused credits at the end of your stay you can buy sweets/candy with them to use them up. It was great to bring a haul of Disney nibbles home with me.

[DanaMarie]

I love the all-inclusive feeling the dining plan affords. It’s so nice to go away knowing that most things are essentially pre-paid. That peace of mind is worth its weight in gold for me. I also pre-purchase Disney gift cards to utilize for tips at sit-down restaurants and any other out of pocket costs (aside for cash for mousekeeping) to keep the all-inclusive vibe going.

A tip to consider would be bringing simple breakfast items for the resort too ..not only will this save some credits for pricier/more filling meals, it will also allow you to get an earlier start on the day at the parks to maximize your time there (plus you can always hit the food court to fill up the re-usable mug along the way!) Character breakfasts (once they are up and running at their full potential) are my only exception...especially when they allow for early entry into the park).