Question about Hopper tickets on a split stay

[coolbradfromwi]

Not sure if this is asked elsewhere but have a 6-night reservation (free dining pkg) starting 11-25 that we originally had 5-day hopper tickets on. We decided to come 2 days early & have a 2 day reservation.

Called Disney to inquire about changing to 7-day hopper tickets on the 2nd reservation vs paying extra for a one-day ticket to visit the parks on 11-24 as our TA with MVP had said it wasn't possible to do. However for 5 people this would be an extra $500+ vs $150 to switch to 7-day. The cast member we spoke to indicated that what we wanted to do was possible. Our TA made the change but keeps insisting the tickets can't be activated prior to 11-25, so called Disney again. The cast member reached this time indicated because they were package tickets they can't be activated until 11-25, that we would need to purchase 1 day tickets for 11-24.

Need some clarification as to which cast member is correct.

 

[sharonabe]

You can definitely activate early. People have been doing it for years. Just stop by guest services once you get there.

Now, you won't be able to book FP+ at 60 days on those first two days, but you should be able to do them at 30 days.

 

[hiroMYhero]

You can activate your package tickets when you reach WDW. As soon as they are activated you can book FPs for 11/24.

A 30-day window does not apply to package tickets that have not yet been activated.

 

[Robo]

You can activate your package tickets when you reach WDW. As soon as they are activated you can book FPs for 11/24.

A 30-day window does not apply to package tickets that have not yet been activated.

Agreed.

 

[mamamelody2]

That's pretty much exactly what we had last year. A 2 night room only stay, then a 6 night free dining package stay. We got 8 day hoppers with the free dining package. We had no trouble activating our tickets at guest relations at Epcot. Took a few minutes. You won't be able to pre-book FPs for those first two days, but as soon as you activate the tickets, get on MDE and you can book for those days.