week before thanksgiving question

[2princesses3princes]

Hello!
we are coming to Orlando Nov. 16-22 (week before thanksgiving)
We have rented a 3bed condo at an great rate
There are 3 adults, 3 kids (10/9/6). we will be going to the US/IOA parks on Sunday, Wed, Friday. Would switch to Sunday, Thurs, Friday if we go on site one night. The other 3 days are at WDW

I am wondering though about all the people who encourage staying one night on-site.
There are 6 of us, so staying on-site would mean 2 rooms.
Here is the cost breakdown:
1) one night on site with APH is $346.50+ cost to upgrade to APH $140 (we have Costco 3 day tix right now bought at about $140)= $486.50

2) staying off site with the tix we have, buying express pass if needed. 2 days worth of express passes is $384.

I know that "worth it" is subjective. We don't care anything about the hotels, won't spend much time there except to sleep. I don't know that having to leave our condo super early to check in before going to the park will go over well with the rest of the party.
Main issue is the lines of course. Which is why I am currently leaning towards waiting and seeing how the parks are and then buying express passes if needed. I know that they are only 1 ride passes, but still better than nothing. And it would be cheaper/less hassle with the kids.

Thoughts???

 

[macraven]

https://www.universalorlando.com/Ticket-Store/PurchaseTickets.aspx?ExpressPlus

looking at that site above, doesn't seem like the parks will be crowded.

i think you will be fine if you do stay offsite.
if crowd lines for the rides develop, you can always purchase the ep's while at the park.
you can buy them in the stores and not have to go to guest services to make that purchase.

you can use the child swap/family rooms for the rides your kids don't meet the height requirements.
single rider lines can also be used.
have one adult go first and the other go last so all can meet up after the ride empties out.