What Dining Plan?

[amybel]

My boyfriend and I are going to WDW in August for the first time. We decided to go ahead with the dining plan, even if it isn't the best value, we like the idea of having our meals paid for ahead of time, so we really only need to worry about spending money.
Now, after that long ramble, the question. We're not sure what dining plan to choose. The only sit down meal that I would really like is Crystal Palace (Winnie the Pooh is my favorite!) So I was thinking to do the Quick Service plan, then OOP Crystal Palace. Or, would it be smarter to get regular or deluxe, and do lunch in the TS restaurants, to spend some time out of the heat?

 

[ccgirl]

My boyfriend and I are going to WDW in August for the first time. We decided to go ahead with the dining plan, even if it isn't the best value, we like the idea of having our meals paid for ahead of time, so we really only need to worry about spending money.
Now, after that long ramble, the question. We're not sure what dining plan to choose. The only sit down meal that I would really like is Crystal Palace (Winnie the Pooh is my favorite!) So I was thinking to do the Quick Service plan, then OOP Crystal Palace. Or, would it be smarter to get regular or deluxe, and do lunch in the TS restaurants, to spend some time out of the heat?

Honestly, I would to the QSDP and pay for the one meal OOP. Most counter service places have indoor seating as well so you can get out of the heat.

 

[TDC Nala]

If you're only going to do one TS, get the quick service. If you think you'd like to go for a table service per day, get the regular. But be aware that you'll need to plan your restaurants and make ADRs if you go for the regular.

 

[squirrel]

Sounds like the QSDP is the best one for you. I would just pay out of pocket for Crystal Palace, it would be cheaper than upgrading to the DDP (depending on how many nights you are staying) and you get to keep your refill mug and the extra snack per day.

Are you doing breakfast, lunch or dinner? Breakfast would be the cheapest. If you can get up early, it's nice booking an early am breakfast before the park opens. You can get some nice photos in front of the castle with few people around.

 

[jbuey22]

we always get the 1 TS 1 CS and 1 snack. We find we dont need the refillable mugs because you always get a drink with every meal and you dont have to lug it around. Dont get me wrong we have done the mugs before and loved it but on this plan you dont need it. BUT!!! The only way it pays off is if you make ADR's at the nice TS restaurants. They dont have to be character meals although they offer many character meals as a single TS credit. We really enjoy eating at the nice restaurants. One year we saved our receipts, back when they used to still have the prices on them, and we averaged 120.00 per TS and that was when you did not have to tip, it was included! So if you take advantage and study menus and make ADR's you can more than get your moneys worth and have a wonderful experience. If you are gonna get the 2CS per day plan, in my opinion the only advantage is that you dont have to constantly dig in your pocket to eat. But if you dont get it you will dig in your pocket, but that will give you the conscience to be a bit more thrifty, only buy what you need, and I think in the long run save money.
So.... I would suggest the TS, CS, snack plan or nothing!
just my opinion!!

 

[ccgirl]

If you're only going to do one TS, get the quick service. If you think you'd like to go for a table service per day, get the regular. But be aware that you'll need to plan your restaurants and make ADRs if you go for the regular.

Also, don't forget to add the tips on to the TS plan. This can greatly increase the overall price. I usually tip 20%. For a $60 meal (on the low end for TS meals, IMHO) that tip would be $12. Multiply that by 7 nights and you have now added $84 to the plan.