Broke even without the dining plan

[Gorechick]

Just got back from our trip a week ago and finally went through the charges. We went the 3rd week of August when Free Dining was not offered and we opted not to purchase the plan. We wound up breaking even with the plan price,however we got to eat what we wanted not what DP tells you to have. We originally had quite a few character meals, buffets, and TS planned. We ended up cancelling some because we weren't eating as much and split some meals as well. Had we kept them in, then we would have been over the cost of the DP. I'm happy to find out that we did well without the DP and it was a learning experience for next time.

 

[patsal]

I just enjoy getting what I want when and whare I want it and not being tethered to a plan that doesn't fit my regualr eating style, so I know what you mean. I also like the ability to make changes around the way we are feeling at the time.

 

[marasmallworldfan]

I agree we just returned after buying the QSDP. I wasn't crazy about the restrictions we faced with regards to snacks and having to get a drink instead of a side at our hotel even though we got the refillable mugs with our vacation purchase. We may have done better purchasing the food without the plan, but it was nice having everything prepaid.

 

[TheRatPack]

If you add exactly what you're getting on the dining plan, it usually comes out a better value....if you eat like that and it's not too much food.

If we went and only bought 1 or 2 snacks a day, and spread out our meals and paid OOP we could probably come out cheaper than the dining plan. But, when we add up snacks, QS credits, TS credits and refillable mug for 6 the dining plan is always a better value.

Again, it really only works out if you eat like this at home, which we usually eat 2 full meals and a lighter meal at home as well so this does work out for us. Having it pre-paid is a bonus for our family as well....one less thing I have to worry about

 

[loganjared]

We have always saved money using the dining plan. Other bonus for us is that I don't feel guilty about the price of what I'm ordering. Everyone is different, but when we used to pay OOP I may see something that looked really good, and was a healthier option as well, but I would feel like I should get a sandwich instead because it was half the price.
I love the freedom of ordering whatever I want and not having to think about the price.

 

[peaceluv&mickeymouse]

I like the plan because we can order more expensive entrees and not feel guilty. Its also fun to add up all your food receipts and see how much you would have spent OOP,

Everyone is different and it is whatever works for you What works even better is Free Dining!!

 

[mom2my3kids]

Love it when its free, but wont pay for it..we are going the first of dec and will be paying OOP...added up and it just wont work for us, we are having three table service and the rest counter service meals..we will get to eat what we want and when we want.. either way we are going to have a great time..

 

[havoc315]

I like the plan because we can order more expensive entrees and not feel guilty. Its also fun to add up all your food receipts and see how much you would have spent OOP,

Just finished OOP trip. Adding the receipts now, and will compare it to the dining plans. Over 5 nights, Ate 3 signature meals, 4 1-credit TS meals, plus 3 CS meals. We ordered anything we wanted, without any regard to price. I'm pretty sure we spent less than the price of the basic DDP, but we will see.