Budget with 3 kids - need help

[vicceja]

Hi All - This is the first time I've had the guts to post a question here. I really need help and the best place to get the right answers would be here!
I'm planning a trip to WDW for myself, DH, and my 3 boys. We are planning to leave June 29 - July 8. Because it is 5 of us we are probably going to have to stay at POR. My question is, Should I choose a package or would it be better to get a PAP? I really don't know how the PAP's work.....
Any ideas, comments and advise are greatly appreciated!!

Thanks,
Ely

 

[aka-mad4themouse]

Hi Ely and welcome to the DIS!

As a general rule, booking the parts of your trip (airfare, hotel, ground transportation & tickets) has always been cheaper and more affordable than booking a package. There have been some exceptions in the past. The "7 days for the price of 4" package was a really good deal for those who could take advantage of it.

I would not buy a PAP (Premium Annual Pass) unless waterparks are something that you feel you must visit multiple times during your trip. An AP (Annual Pass) might get you a room-only discount. It is a good idea to wait until you've snagged that discounted room-only ressie before you invest the money in an AP. AP discounts for June/July are not available yet.

Aside from AAA discounts, there are none available at this time for your dates. My recommendation would be to book the room-only ressie at POR and then make any changes to it if you qualify for a better rate later on. Since there are 5 of you and you want to stay at the only moderate that offers accommodations for 5 and you're staying during peak season, it's a good idea to make that ressie as soon as you know your dates. Otherwise, you're liable to find that there is no rooms available for 5 people (not every room at POR sleeps5).