How much can I save if I get an AP?

[JulieNMM]

I was reading another thread and it got me wondering.

We are currently booked for 2 rooms at the Contemporary for 3 nights (6/20-23) and 4 nights at the BCV 2-BR suite (6/23-27). (We are also staying at Nick Hotel on 6/17-6/20). We are 8 people (4 adults, 1 junior, 3 kids) and will get 10 day park hoppers. We'd like to get DDP but can't since we are resort hopping.

Someone mentioned getting an AP and then getting cheaper room rates and 20% off all dining with the AP.

Does anyone know how much we could expect to save on the rooms if one of us got an AP, based on my info above? Would you recommend getting an AP or not? (We will most likely NOT go back within the year since we live far away.) I know there is no crystal ball, but I would love to know approx. how much others saved and at what time of year.

Thanks!
JULIE

 

[fla4fun]

It's difficult to tell, because they haven't been as consistent with their offers during the summer over the past few years. A few years ago, they only offered discounts at the Epcot resorts. Also, it's more difficult to get the discount on the two bedroom DVC units, so you may only be looking at discounting the CR room. Also, keep in mind that you have to have one adult AP holder per room, so if you have two CR rooms booked, you would need two adult AP's to discount both rooms.

Typically, the discounts fall into a 30-40 percent range IF they are offered. But that's the thing - you never know if they are going to be offered until they are. You can make a reservation without the AP, so what I would recommend is waiting to see if a discount is offered. Since your off property stay is first, you would have plenty of time to buy an AP and activate it before you check in on property. Also, now you can buy the DDE cards on property instead of having to order ahead of time, so if you do decide to go with the AP, then you can buy the card. If any discounts are announced, call and see how much you will save. Then see if the savings will cover the extra cost of the AP.

Normally, I don't recommend buying an AP just to get the perks. So I wouldn't plan on getting one until you know for sure that it's going to save you more than it costs to buy, especially if you are going to need two of them to get the discounts.

 

[Manda]

Well, with only one AP, you could only get one room at the AP discount. So, there's that. I would do what the other poster suggested. Wait until AP rates are released for that time frame and call to see if you can get your rooms at a passholder discount. Know before you call what the price difference is going to be between the passes. I'd guess that if you can get the AP discount on a room at the Contemporary for 3 nights, that would probably buy your pass upgrade. And you don't just get 20% off all dining because of the AP. You get 10% off some dining (lunch at resorts mostly) and the option for pay $60 to buy the Disney Dining Experience card that will get you 20%.

 

[JulieNMM]

Thanks for all the info! I didn't realize we would need 2 APs since we're getting 2 rooms. That definitely makes a difference.

JULIE

 

[suzieqmomof4]

You save nothing because you end up taking more trips than you thought you would! Fortunately, I'm gullible and happy about it.

Seriously, though, we've used the discount for miniature golf and at World of Disney.