Yay or Nay to Express Passes

[Loyola00]

Hello,

I will be traveling with my family to US/IOA Nov. 5-6. Do you think I need express passes for those dates? The horror nights will be over (I think) and I don't want to buy the passes if the crowds are typically low.

I am thinking there may be a reasonable wait for all rides, but I'm 2nd guessing myself with the new WWHP additions to the park. What do you guys think?

 

[HM]

I wouldn't.
If you find you need them when you get there, you can buy them then.
And remember, most of the HP stuff doesn't have Express Pass anyway.

 

[damo]

I would not buy them in advance. You can purchase them within the parks if you find you want them once you are there. I don't think you'll find the need.

 

[schumigirl]

Yes HHN will be done by then.

As said, don't buy EP in advance. They are date specific. Wait and see on the days you are there.

 

[Loyola00]

Thanks guys....I am going to wait as suggested.

 

[johde]

Like everyone else said, I'd wait till you get there before buying express passes. That being said, I'd consider looking at staying at a Deluxe resort for the night and getting unlimited express passes included in your stay. Depending on your current hotel option, staying in a deluxe might be worth it.

 

[macraven]

i doubt there will be crowds for your dates.
don't spend money unless the situation changes

 

[Loyola00]

We are renting a house for the week, but it's inexpensive in comparison to what you can expect to pay at Disney. That being said it may be worth it to consider 1 night at the onsite hotels. The Royal Pacific and Portofino look really nice. It would be a nice splurge and bonus with included EP. Have you stayed at either hotel and if so do you have a preference?

 

[Bluer101]

Both are great hotels and for one night choose the cheapest.

 

[glocon]

RPR is closer and probably less expensive. With the ee and ep for both check in and check out day, and decreased travel time, you would enjoy it. If does make for quite a different and more enjoyable trip that way, even if there aren't big crowds.

 

[macraven]

if you want to stay one night, go with the cheapest hotel for your date.

if you have more than 2 people age 18 and over, there will be a $25 additional charge per night, per person 18 and up.

if your visit will be with adults, consider the additional hotel fee when you are figuring out your expenses for the one night stay.

i don't see crowds in the park for your time period, but, it is nice to be able not to have to rush in the morning to get to the parking lot or parks, if you stay on site.

 

[phillymummer]

That is the end of "Jersey Week" (when most schools have off for the Teacher's convention. I don't know if that affects crows at US like it does Disney.

 

[Minerva Mouse]

I like the Portofino myself, it typically costs a little more than Royal Pacific, but you really can't go wrong with either, both are gorgeous.

Smart thinking on the express pass, a stay in the hotel gets you one at no extra charge.

I typically offer this advice on the express pass. We all come from different income levels, if you can afford the express pass with ease, defiantly purchase it. You may not "need" it, but it sure beats standing in line, even if the wait is only 20 minutes at each attraction. Having that extra time allows you to really see the park, experience the shows, eat the food, watch the parade and re-ride some of your favorite attractions. It will be a much more relaxing, enjoyable experience and I think you'll have a better time.