AAA v. not using AAA

[lark]

So, do I basically have this right: The primary benefit to using AAA for booking a reservation is that they are the only ones who can get you a package where you get a discount on the room AND get access to dining.

Otherwise, the only way for a regular person or a non-AAA travel agent to get you the dining package is to pay rack.

Is that right? Close to right?

(This is assuming that there are no discounted package codes. In other words, if I'm going to make a vacation plan for 2006 right now without knowing whether any discounts will be available.)

 

[Conkozan]

Yes, but your end rate is what matters-not your start rate. If you use AAA and code is released you call them at 10am when they open to apply it (after YOU see the posts about it here on the DIS, very few AAA agencies will do it without being told to). If it is there they will, but availability drops as the minutes tick by.

If you book with one of the online Disney Specialist they are aware of the codes before you are and apply the discount before you are out of bed.

A bit if a gamble hoping that Disney will release a discount, I know. If your traveling during a time that historically has discounts though-I would stick with one of the Specialist agencies.

 

[whacked]

You also get a AAA diamond parking pass.

The diamond parking is next to the handicap parking up front.
Since we are renting cars, and get to the parks before opening, this will be nice.

Oh, and a certificate to go to the AAA lounge in the MK for a free soda during your stay.

There are some other mostly irrelevant discounts that you can probably get without booking through AAA if you have a AAA card.

 

[lark]

Thanks, this is really helpful. I think the point that it's your last rate that matters, not the first, is a good one, although the other point is that you have to assume your first very well could be your last.

So, I guess the question is: (1) How important is the dining plan to me? (2) Is it more imporant to have the flexibility and expertise of a specialist, given that my dates might very well ultimately have a discount package with dining offered?

 

[BrerMama]

If you read threads on here, some people aren't saving any money, or less than $100 over their AAA package price. The dining plan is a priority for us, so it was worth it to us to book through AAA. If by some chance a discount comes out for us (probably doubtful since we're going mid-June), I would be here reading about it anyway and no problem to pick up the phone and call our agent.