Annual Passes vs. Package Trips

[w0rM]

So, I'm planning on making 2 trips to WDW in 2012. The prices I've looked at suggest that buying an annual pass might actually be less expensive than just buying tickets for each of the trips.

It looks like I can get an annual pass for about $240 less than the tickets would cost me as part of a package. The only downside I see is that if I buy tickets in this way, I won't be able to buy a dining plan at all.

Has anyone else used this approach for multiple trips in one calendar year? Did you like it, hate it or does it really make any difference that's worth the trouble of paying for dining out of pocket? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[minushka72]

So, I'm planning on making 2 trips to WDW in 2012. The prices I've looked at suggest that buying an annual pass might actually be less expensive than just buying tickets for each of the trips.

It looks like I can get an annual pass for about $240 less than the tickets would cost me as part of a package. The only downside I see is that if I buy tickets in this way, I won't be able to buy a dining plan at all.

Has anyone else used this approach for multiple trips in one calendar year? Did you like it, hate it or does it really make any difference that's worth the trouble of paying for dining out of pocket? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

You can have the dining plan, you just need to book the room as AP plus dining which turns it into a package with no tickets.

 

[ambgoph]

Depending when you go, you might also be able to use a AP discount for your room.

Another option if you buy a AP is to buy the Tables in Wonderland for $75. That gives you 20% off the entire bill (including alcohol) at many table service restaurants. The TIW card worked out better for me than the DDP.

 

[w0rM]

Depending when you go, you might also be able to use a AP discount for your room.

Another option if you buy a AP is to buy the Tables in Wonderland for $75. That gives you 20% off the entire bill (including alcohol) at many table service restaurants. The TIW card worked out better for me than the DDP.

Oh! I wasn't aware of this. That sounds great!