Worth staying on-site for the express pass if visiting in October?

[Jill72]

Planning a trip for October 2018...I understand the Express Pass option is included in certain on-site hotels...would this be worth it in October? Are the crowds bad then?

 

[pcstang]

The crowds are not necessarily bad but with HHN a lot of nights studios will close at 5 pm. Try one of the three deluxe with express, but be warned...you will be spoiled!

 

[imprint]

If you can afford to pay the deposit now (or soon), then go ahead and book an on-site room. You can always rebook if the rates drop, or you can always cancel the reservation if you decide to stay at another location. My personal opinion is to stay on-site and enjoy the bliss of express pass. Busy days, it saves a lot of time, and on slow days, it allows you to easily ride your favorites over and over (and over and over) again. Seriously, as pcstang said, you will get spoiled by express.

 

[flortlebap]

We found EP to be beneficial around 30% of the time in early oct, but the universal hotels worked out cheaper than Disney anyway! It's definitely worth staying on site for us. Walking to the parks and early opening is really nice too.

EP is a must for HHN if you're planning that though.

 

[jsmla]

I'm debating this for this year. I have reservations at both Royal Pacific ($263+$20 parking/night) and Homewood Suites ($115/night). That's a HUGE price difference ($849 vs $345) without even considering the extra costs re meals if I stay onsite. I have an AP (free parking at the parks and possibly early entry) and the Homewood is within acceptable walking distance for me. I'm also solo and can maximize use of the Single Rider lines.

It's been a while since I've stayed offsite for Universal though and I'm having a hard time committing!

 

[Metro West]

I think you'll be fine w/o Express in October...not that busy during the day.

 

[macraven]

Weekends and Columbus Day would be the only time line waits could be long

Late October crowds are not there

 

[tony67]

It is nice to have, especially on the weekends, but also keep in mind the benefits of being on site in general.
No hassle getting back and fourth to your hotel throughout the day and early entry.

I might skip staying at one of the express pass hotels to save $50+ a day, but I'd still stay on property.

Also keep an eye out for deals on that new hotel they are building - I think it will be open by October 2018.
No express pass - but it is on site.