Changing RO to package for free DP?

[abinormal]

For my trip next fall I don't plan on getting a package unless free dining plans are offered. But I won't know that until after I need to make room reservations. Can I make a room only reservation, and then have it made into a package if free dining plans are offered later?

 

[letsgoreds]

Not exactly.

You would actually have to cancel your room only reservation and rebook a new reservation under the free dining discount. The resort/category may or may not be available with free dining...and the reservations pull from a different bank of rooms vs. room only reservations.

It is a good idea to book now to ensure that you get the resort that you like...can cancel without penalty up until 5 days before.

 

[abinormal]

Darn. I knew I'd have to book the room early but sometimes free dining plan offers aren't announced until late. At least I'll have a room for sure. Thanks!

 

[abinormal]

Would a better strategy be to book a package, and then if FD isn't released by the cancellation deadline, cancel the package and rebook as a room only?

 

[aaarcher86]

I don't think it'd really matter. It'd be easier to add FD to an existing package to avoid canceling and rebooking but when you go from one to the other you'll always be canceling, rebooking, putting down a new deposit, and getting a refund. Neither would hold your room so it'd really just be preference.

 

[TDC Nala]

Yep, you can't hold your room reservation by making a room only and then switching to a package.

But if you're going to keep the room only unless a package deal comes out, there's no harm in booking, just realize you'd have to cancel it and rebook to get free dining, and the resort of your choice might not be available with the free dining for your dates.

 

[abinormal]

Thanks for all the help! Since I only intend to do a package if FD were to be released, I should probably just book the room so if it isn't, I just go separately on everything.