Are there a limited number of AP rates when they come out??

[KSgirl]

I'm sorry if this is a silly question.....

I've never had an Annual Pass before, but my husband and I are planning on purchasing APs before our trip over Labor Day Weekend. We are returning with the children in December, and may go again (just the two of us) for an anniversary trip early next summer. I know that Annual Passholders can get some discounts on accomodations when the codes come out, but I was wondering if there is a limit on how many Disney will provide. In other words, will everyone be eligible or only those lucky few who call in first?

Also, how do you go about getting the code for your room? If you already have a booking, do they just automatically add it on to your reservation when you call and ask, or is there a charge, or do you have to rebook?

We are currently booked at ASMo, since this was suppose to be an unexpected trip and we are trying to keep costs down. However, I would really like to stay at a moderate resort because my birthday is that weekend...and that is why we are going! I am thinking I might upgrade, if the cost is right. Thanks for giving the "lowdown" to this rookie.

 

[Geoff_M]

Limited number... first come, first served. If available, they can apply a code to an existing reservation for only the cost of the phone call. The usual tactic is to book with what rate is currently available at the resort you want to get your foot in the door, and then wait for a code and then apply it. But if the current moderate rate would break the budget, then stay put at All-Stars now and then try and switch if a code comes out.

 

[DebbieB]

Last year I got an AP rate at BWI for early December about 2 or 3 weeks after they came out. They aren't guaranteed to be available for all dates for all resorts, so I would call as soon as you hear about it but they usually don't sellout right away. They may also add more if rooms are selling slow.

 

[kda]

Pre-911 some discount rates seemed to sell out within a few days or less, but post-911 there seems to be more availability. That's not always the case, so would call ASAP. It's been posted that AP rates are coming out this weekend, so try calling yourself and/or keep an eye on this board for info. "AP rate" is the code to ask about. There's often other codes that are announced during he year, but there aren't usually quite as low at the AP rate.
It helps if you're flexible with resorts and (if possible) dates. If the dates aren't available, ask if some of the dates are. You might find that all but one night is available, and if it's the 1st or last night, you might want to book the room at the AP rate for as many nights as you can and take the other night at regular rate (or possibly AAA, if available). Then, keep calling back. Availability changes frequently.
Good luck!
If you have a room-only rate through CRO, I wouldn't expect any charges for changing the reservation. If you have any type of package through WDWT, it's not always that simple, so be sure to ask.

 

[KSgirl]

Thanks, all! It is unbelievable how much information I have learned from this board.

By the way, I plan on activating my AP voucher when we get to Disney, but until then I will only have the voucher from the Disney Store. Will I still be able to get an AP rate?

 

[Geoff_M]

Yes. Vouchers will do just fine with the CM that checks you in.