How does buying DDP work?

[Oleeka]

I'm probably being ultra thick, but, even though I've read the official site and Passporter, I still don't how the DDP actually works. I plan on arriving Sunday morning and leaving the next Saturday morning. Can I decide how many DDP days I buy or is part of the "Magic Your Way" program and I have to buy 6/7 days worth if I go with the DDP at all. Can I buy some days basic and some days deluxe? I understand that you can use the credits in any combo and on any day you want until you use them up. Given what I plan on doing (club level room, three backstage events that include a meal), I'm thinking that DDP is not worth it, but I don't know. While I've visited DL twice (60's and 70's) and World once (90's), I've never stayed onsite before and the DDP wasn't invented yet. Please help!

 

[Faldred]

Dining plans are purchased as part of a MYW package, and are for length of stay, based on the number of NIGHTS of your resort reservation, regardless of the length of ticket you buy.

You cannot mix and match different plans on the same reservation, but you can book multiple reservations, each with its own dining plan, but that requires a ticket purchase with each. Unless you have an annual pass or are staying at DVC on points, neither of which appears to apply to you.

 

[catra121]

If you are staying 6 nights then you multiply the daily cost of the DDP by 6, but you can USE your dining credits for all 7 days (because it includes arrival and departure day).

Normally (and this is just my personal experience) I find the the regular DDP is not enough food for me without having to spend some money out of pocket...BUT since you are staying club level and have those additional tours with meals included I think that it might work out perfect for you and you won't have to spend any money OOP for meals on the trip (unless you want appetizers or alcohol...those would be extra). I really like the convenience of the dining plan and having everything paid for ahead of time. The deluxe plan (even though it is MY favorite) probably wouldn't make sense given your access to CL and then those additional meals too. I think you should give it a shot...sounds like it would fit your vacation plans well.

If you have any more questions, let us know. There are lots of people who can help you figure out if it really fits your style and if it is worth it.

 

[TDC Nala]

You're staying six nights. That would mean you need to purchase a 6-night resort package with the dining plan of your choice and at least 1-day park tickets for each party member. The dining plan allotments will be based on a 6-night stay (if you choose the regular dining plan, the allotments are 6 TS credits, 6 CS and 6 snacks per person for the entire trip).

If you can plan meals that will use up all those credits, factoring in the extra meals you will be having with your special events, then you can possibly make use of the dining plan as a moneysaver. Leaving credits unused cuts the monetary value of the dining plan drastically, so try to plan ways to use all your credits.

If you prefer spontenaity in deciding where to eat on a daily basis, the plan may not be for you.

Some guests find inherent value in having the meals prepaid; the DDP is still of value to them even if they don't come out ahead monetarily over the price of paying for meals OOP.

 

[Oleeka]

Thanks for the info! I may look at what restaurants I would like to eat at (definitely table service for dinner) and figure out how much I would pay for a meal that I would usually buy. Part of me says, "This hurts my brain and the price difference isn't going to be that much." Another part says, "Don't waste money on unwanted food, there are souvenirs to buy!" Aw, well, I'm sure it will work out in the end. Thanks again.