Pros and Cons of the Disney Dining Plan and is it for You
Pros and Cons of the Disney Dining Plan and is it for You. This was one of the questions that drove me crazy while planning our first trip to Disney. Read below and find out if it is right for you.
Pros and Cons of the Disney Dining Plan and is it for You
Just like most things in life, there are both pros and cons to the Disney Dining Plan and if it is for you. It’s an element of your upcoming vacation that requires quite a bit of thought before making a final decision. These are a few things to initially consider about the possibility of paying for this option.
Pros
Flexible
With the Disney Dining Plan, you can use your dining credits in whichever way is most convenient for your family. The vouchers are redeemable at over Disney 100 restaurants, featuring cuisine from all over the world. DDP now includes mobile ordering capabilities and many specialty drinks that weren’t included in the plan before.
Paid in Advance
When you opt for the Disney Dining Plan, you don’t have to worry about how you’re going to pay for each meal. Since you know how much you’ll be spending on food ahead of time, it also makes it much easier to budget your trip. Yay! Better yet, the plan eliminates the need for you or your family members to have cash on hand to pay for impromptu meals or snacks.
Works for the Whole Family
Another perk of the Disney Dining Plan (especially when you’re traveling with a large group) is the fact that you’re not required to eat together, spending your credits at the same time in the same restaurant. This is perfect for families of picky eaters who don’t usually to try out new things when it comes to food.
Cons
Lack of Appetizers
With the standard Disney Dining Plan, appetizers and some extras may not be included in your available menu choices. This can lead to paying out-of-pocket for certain snacks, especially when your family works up an appetite at the park… which is SO easy to do!
Pay for Unused Vouchers
Even if you don’t eat all of the meals on your Disney Dining Plan, you still have to pay for them. There’s no way to get reimbursed for unused vouchers, so that money goes to waste. Meal plan meals also tend to be pretty large. That being said, you just might end up with several unused tickets (turned souvenirs) at the end of your vacation.
Less Spontaneous
Are you the spontaneous type? If so, this food option may be something you want to avoid. Why? With so many exciting restaurants and exotic dishes to choose from, dining at Disney is quite the memorable experience.
Sticking to the Disney meal plan, you won’t get the opportunity to sample as many of the treats the park has to offer.
Should you decide to purchase the Disney Dining Plan, it’s easy to keep track of your credits… also referred to as “entitlements.” You’re able to check your most recent restaurant receipt, inquire at any Guest Relations desk or use the My Disney Experience app.
The DDP is a dream come true Disney theme park visitors who LOVE to eat. The built-in savings allows participants to sample dishes and eat at restaurants they may not otherwise be able to enjoy.
Again, Disney’s Dining Plan is certainly not for everyone. It’s a facet of your vacation that requires research before you make the investment. The best thing to do is talk to your family members and then take a vote. In cases like this, every opinion counts!
I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!
