"room only" vs packages

[Donald Applecore]

OK, let me know if I’m on the right track here.

DW and I are about to make reservations for our first trip to Disneyworld together. (I’ve never been and she hasn’t been since she was 4.) We are going for a week in May and plan to stay at the AKL. We have AAA so I know I can get a “room only” discount. However, I also realize that most of the discounts Disney are offering these days are through packages. Is it the right plan to go ahead and just make “room only” reservations so I’m sure I will at least get my AAA discount, then keep an eye out for the special packages that become available? Is there any problem switching from “room only” to a package?

 

[ncbyrne]

In almost every case you will do better by booking everything separately yourself. Keep reading these boards and look for discount options for all the components of your trip.

 

[DebbieB]

I would keep your eyes open. Disney seems to be offering discounts on packages more than room only. There have been no "room only" discount codes since July 4. They did offer annual pass discounts on selected dates this fall (none for September, which I still don't understand). If they have another fairytale package deal like they had this year (7 nights for the price of 4), I would jump on it. AAA is only 10% off for May deluxe, right? You should be able to do better, especially if you want to buy ultimate park hoppers (length of stay pass) rather than annual passes.

 

[toystorymom]

We originally booked a room only with the AAA discount, I think for the fall it was 20% off. I only had to send in a one night deposit, with the remaining balance due at check in. When the Fairytale Package was extended to November we decided to switch and I was able to without a problem. I kept the same hotel and dates. Keep in mind that the rules change when you book a package. They ask for a $200 deposit and you must pay in full 45 days before your trip. They applied my original deposit to the new package though, it was no problem switching. Hope that helps.

 

[Donald Applecore]

That's exactly the info I was looking for. I appreciate all your help.

 

[spectromagic fan]

We usually book room only and then buy park hopper passes, but when the FTP was announced, we decided it was too good to pass up. We booked the FPT for Poly from Sept. 13-20, 2003. Unfortunately, shortly after our arrival, Hurricane Isabel turned and headed for our home in Virginia. So . . . after much discussion and thought, we sadly returned home after staying only 3 of our 7 nights. After a number of calls to Disney Travel, I finally convinced them to refund a small part of our $$ (they originally said they wouldn't make any refunds for a package). The next time we go, we'll go back to booking room only and buying park hoppers. If we had done that for this trip, we would have at least had days left on our park hoppers to use the next time we go to DW. It seems that package vs room only is a toss up--FTP would have been wonderful if Isabel had stayed away. Good luck with your planning. You'll love WDW!!