How to use the dining plan for snacks and quick service ?

[mum]

I have never used a dining plan before and it seems straightforward that if you are having a table service meal your server can explain exactly how the plan works.
But I can see myself holding up the entire queue in the main street bakery, or elsewhere ,as I panic trying to work out what I can order as a snack or what constitutes a counter service meal?
Are snack items labelled as being on the plan ?
I've read here that some people love the dining plans but it seems complicated to me ,whats included whats not. Maybe I'm just still early on in my research and it'll become clearer as I read more.

 

[squirrel]

Most of the snack credits do have a DP symbol next to them.

For the CS just remember you get your entree, drink and dessert. Children get the entree, drink and two side items (one is dessert the other is the appetizer). You can get the large soda if you ask-otherwise you get a medium one.

At the resorts, if you want an ice cream treat as your dessert you don't need to get it at the same time as your food. Just remember when you get to the till to tell the CM what ice cream dessert you want. They will stamp your receipt and you have time to eat your meal and then get it.

If you are unsure, ask the CM.

 

[amyr1]

The first time we used the DDP I had the same concerns as you. When we got to the parks and went to eat CS, we found most things to be pretty clearly labeled and easy to figure out. ALL the cashiers and people behind the counters were very helpful.

Amy

 

[CajunMomof3]

I agree with the other posters- our first trip we were worried, but...
1) things are clearly marked
2) the CMs are knowledgable, patient, and will help you
3) other people are figuring it out too, so they won't be upset with you!

By the end of our first trip, we were helping others figure out what they could get. It really is that easy!

 

[Dizneydaz]

Check out this thread by jjohnson for uses for your SC-there's a huge array of possibilities out there!
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2381706

And yes, you can get a large soda with your CS but they will give you the medium unless you request the large. And yes, you can usually return for your ice cream dessert after you've eaten your meal. Ask when you pay how long you to to return for it. Different places have different times and different ways of handling it.

 

[mum]

Thanks everyone

 

[lblume91]

We stressed out on our 1st trip with DDP too. Some places don't have the DDP symbol so we thought we couldn't eat there, especially around the WS in Epcot. I quickly learned to walk up & ask. Don't rely solely on the symbols. The worst thing that can happen is the CM tells you no.

At the resorts, if you want an ice cream treat as your dessert you don't need to get it at the same time as your food. Just remember when you get to the till to tell the CM what ice cream dessert you want. They will stamp your receipt and you have time to eat your meal and then get it.

We've gone with DDP three different times & I didn't know this!! We always choose something from the bakery instead. My kids thank you as they'd prefer ice cream!

And yes, you can get a large soda with your CS but they will give you the medium unless you request the large.

This also goes for bottled water. Kids' meals come with a small bottle but adults can have the large.

The CMs are usually knowledgeable & helpful. At CS locations, I always ask, "Did I miss anything?" They will usually count how many drinks, entrees, & desserts to be sure I'm not short-changing myself.

 

[Sienna]

I was nervous about the plan, too, but we got the hang of it really quick. The CMs were really helpful, and often pointed out when we were entitled to an extra 'whatever' (drink, dessert, etc) that we forgot to order. The snacks were easy to figure out, too. There's a symbol by them on the menu boards so you know what qualifies. And if you don't see the symbol, just ask!