AP upgrade- now or later?

[HollyMD]

We are coming to WDW in June, and already have a package booked, but we have decided that we are also coming back in Oct, and possibly March or April of next year, and it makes sense to upgrade to AP. My question is, should I call and try to get the upgrade done now so that when I get ready to book for Oct I can take advantage of AP discounts(if they are offered by then) or just wait until we get to WDW in June and upgrade our first day there?

 

[erionm]

You can't upgrade your package tickets to APs until after you arrive at WDW.

Typically, you can book AP rates (by phone) without having an active AP. If the front desk wants to see your AP at check-in, they will usually give you 24 hours to get it.

 

[PeasandCarrots]

We are coming to WDW in June, and already have a package booked, but we have decided that we are also coming back in Oct, and possibly March or April of next year, and it makes sense to upgrade to AP. My question is, should I call and try to get the upgrade done now so that when I get ready to book for Oct I can take advantage of AP discounts(if they are offered by then) or just wait until we get to WDW in June and upgrade our first day there?

The PP is correct you can get AP discounts w/o having an AP. You just may be asked to show it when you check in. If you don't have it at check-in it is my understanding you can bring it back and show them after you upgrade it. I've done this many times and never even had to bring it back to show them (but don't bank on this - they have a right to ask for it).

 

[Dis703]

You can't upgrade before arrival so if you wanted to get an AP in advance I assume you'd have to cancel your reservation and start over purchasing your APs and booking your room separately. Which may or may not be a better rate. You can book an AP discount without yet having your AP like others have said. We've done that a couple times now. The upside of having it early is being able to have that discount and having the Memory Maker ready to go once activated as well as being able to use the shop and restaurant discounts. For those reasons I usually recommend doing it earlier rather than waiting.

 

[HollyMD]

Thank you for all of your replies! This helps