Ten Things to Consider with the Disney Dining Plan

The Disney Dining Plan, even the "Free" version is not always a slam dunk, as far as value goes. There are quite a few things to consider when selecting it.  I am not here to say it is or is not worth buying or getting free in a package, but knowing a few things can help you make the appropriate decision for your family's situation.  Some of these you may already know.  Of course, Disney may change the terms and conditions of any offer at any time, so all the following is as I understand it currently.

1. The Disney Free Dining Offer is only available at certain times of the year, usually the least popular, so that WDW can fill the rooms.                                                         
2. If you take the Free Dining promotion, you must forgo other ticket  (such as the current one for Canadians) and room discounts up to 30% off the regular rates (which are quite high) and must buy the Park Hopper add on for all guests on your reservation, regardless of whether you want or need it.                                                            
3. All members on your reservation must take the Dining Plan, and kids must order kids meals.   On the other hand if your kids are 10 or older, they are considered an adukt, and would pay the adult price.                                                            
4. Depending on whether you stay at a Value, Moderate, or Deluxe Resort, you are eligible for a certain free dining plan, which may or may not correspond to your needs or wants.   You can pay to upgrade though.                                                          
5. For full service dining meals, you are given an entree, a non alcoholic beverage and dessert, which is great if you were going to order them, but not so wonderful if you usually do not.  Tips are not included, and is a mandatory 18% for parties of six or more.                                                                                                        
6. When I asked on a Disney Facebook group, whether people on the Dining Plan had credits left over at the end of their stay, many reported having some, particularly snack credits.  But a few of them also reported using them as people fuel for the drive or flight home.                                                                                            
7. If you are planning to go to a number of character dining meals, then your value of the Dining Plan increases, as those tend to be more expensive.                                                 
8. Some very fancy and expensive dining choices require two full service credits, and a few people have reported that they did not feel they were worth it.   And if not on the dining plan, you can always share a meal or even order a kids meal.                                                                                                                                              
9. If you are vegetarian, eat gluten free, or have other dietary restrictions, the Dining Plan may not be the best option for you, either due to lack of value or selection.                                                                                                                                     
10. You cannot get the Dining Plan at all, if you don't stay in a Disney Resort while in WDW, purchase your room by buying DVC points, or are staying off site.

To read more Disney World planning tips blog posts click here.

For blog updates and more planning information,  please Like the Facebook page,  Top 10 Planning Questions for Walt Disney World.