Wait for code before booking trip?

[3littlecuties]

Is that what you do? Or can you book a trip and then apply a code after-the-fact? Or do you reduce your chances of getting a code if you have already booked? I had no idea that codes/pins/whatever even existed until I started reading these boards!

 

[Disneybound!!]

I think you can make changes to your reservation right up until 45 days before your arrival date (I know you can make changes, I'm just unsure if that is the actual end of when you can do it). I've seen up here where some people have booked, then cancelled, and then gotten a code. So, it would seem that booking may reduce your chances of getting one, but really, who's to say? It seems like they are really quite random (most of them any way). Hope that helps, and if I've told you something wrong, hopefully someone will come along and correct me! You could always call Disney or your travel agent and ask.

 

[mickeynut1]

Yes, you can apply a code to an existing reservation, provided the resort/room type you have booked is available with the code . Pin codes are sent out randomly with some getting 3 or 4, while others not getting anything . I have heard of AP holders who book 2 or 3 trips a year and have gotten multiple pin codes within a few months time. We were at Disney this past December and while there wasn't a BB offer, Disney was advertising the GP free dining that had to be booked by 12/20. I booked that before we left on 12/21 just in case nothing else came out for our time frame and a few weeks after we got back I had a pin code in my email. So there's really no telling who gets pin codes and who doesn't . If you know you're going regardless of whether or not you get a discount, I would book now so you're guaranteed the resort/room type you want .

 

[rt2dz]

If you're going during a popular time or want a room that is really hard to get/sells out early, I'd book as soon as you know you are going. Otherwise, it's really a coin toss.

People who have ressies still get pin codes. I speak from experience on that one. There is no rhyme or reason to how pin codes are distributed, that anyone can figure out at least.

Pin codes, like all discounts, are based on availability. If your existing reservation meets the standards to any discount, you may apply it at any time. The only things you need to look out for is if the cost of your package goes down in the under 45 days time frame, or your room only reservation within 6 days of check-in, you may have to pay a change fee. I *think* that is $50--someone will correct me if I have the amount wrong. If you do anything (upgrade resort, add days, etc) that increases the overall cost, there is no fee. Or rather, it's waived. Paying a $50 fee to lower your costs by $500 (for example) is well worth it though! You'd still come out $450 ahead.