Which makes more sense price-wise?

[CJK]

I'm helping some friends plan a whirlwind trip to Disney - 4 adults, 3 kids. They are only going to be there for 2 nights. They haven't decided on a hotel yet. Does it make more sense to book rooms and tickets separately since it's such a short trip? There are no promotions going on at that time (no room-only codes and no free dining packages, etc...). I'm going to crunch some numbers, but I was wondering what some of you experts think?

 

[Marthasor]

I'm helping some friends plan a whirlwind trip to Disney - 4 adults, 3 kids. They are only going to be there for 2 nights. They haven't decided on a hotel yet. Does it make more sense to book rooms and tickets separately since it's such a short trip? There are no promotions going on at that time (no room-only codes and no free dining packages, etc...). I'm going to crunch some numbers, but I was wondering what some of you experts think?

It really just depends on when they want to give Disney their money. If they book room-only, no tickets, Disney will take a one night deposit. Your friends then have up to 5 days prior to their trip to cancel without a penalty.

If they book room AND tickets, it's considered a package. Disney will ask for a $200 deposit upon booking and then their entire trip balance will be due 45 days prior to check-in. If they cancel their trip, Disney keeps that deposit. If they re-schedule their trip, Disney will charge them a $50 rescheduling fee unless the rescheduled trip costs more than the original one. If that is the case, they simply apply the $200 to the new trip.

In my opinion, if you aren't adding the dining plan, there is no reason to tie up all of that money in a package. My advice - book room only and buy your tickets once you are onsite. As far as I know, there is no discount by buying them in advance through the website, at the Disney store, etc. As far as I know, no discount ticket outlets (like Undercover Tourist) offer discounts on two day tickets either.

Hope that helps!

 

[CJK]

Thanks so much! I was thinking the same thing as you. I don't think they'd want the dining plan since they're only there for a couple days and won't want many sit down meals. I think it makes more sense to book a room only and buy tickets later. Thanks!