Would You Buy An AP You Do Not Need Just for the Hotel Discount?

[antmaril]

Okay, here's the scenario:

We are going to Universal for two days (February 15 and 16). I made a reservation at RPR for $149 a night (3 adults) using an AP rate (would purchase AP before we leave).

The other day I found an unused 5 for 2 bonus pass from an earlier trip that I had forgotten about. So it turns out I do not need to purchase any tickets for our trip. (I already have two tickets waiting for us at the e-ticket kiosk.)

If I don't use the AP rate for the hotel, the rate will change to $234 a night (AAA rate). However, the total difference between the two scenarios is only about $10.

Are there other advantages to having the AP than just the hotel discount?

I know I'm rambling - sorry, but I'm not sure what to do and would appreciate any thoughts.

Thanks!

 

[phamton]

You get free parking at the Universal parking lots although you won't need that if you are staying onsite. You also get 15% discount on food and merchandise.

Maybe you can sell your 5 for 2 bonus pass on eBay or the Dis Auctions.

 

[antmaril]

Hadn't thought about selling the 5 for 2 pass. I guess that's an option.

Thanks.

 

[FloridaMom]

The last two times I checked in at PBH and RPH, no one even asked to see my Annual Pass card. So, maybe you would get lucky and just have to pay the AP rate anyway even without the actual card.
You do get a lot of good discounts on everything from food to merchandise with the AP card, and that alone is worth the cost.

 

[antmaril]

If I wait to buy the AP, can I buy it at the park for the same price as on-line?

How would the hotel handle it, if they do ask me for the AP and I haven't purchased it yet?

 

[Immelman]

AP's can be bought at the park for the same price. but it's actually easier online. your print off your code and bring it down. at check-in, just show the paper. then you pick up your vouvher for your AP's at one of the eticket machines. I think worst case scenario is you'd just have to show your new AP before you checkout to get the rate.