Congratulations … You’ve done it, you’ve booked that Disney trip. And if that wasn’t enough to get excited about, you’ve also landed the Disney World’s Free Dining deal.
Now comes the fun part: making sure you squeeze every bit of magic (and Mickey waffles) out of it.
Here are the most popular and effective tips to make sure the dining plan works for you.
Guests from the UK and Ireland can book Free Disney Dinning & Drinks offer now with Attractiontickets.com and also get an 10% off the price too (by using code: WDW10).
1. Focus on high-value meals
Want to stretch those dining dollars? Choose your meals carefully.
With the Quick Service Dining Plan, meals at eligible Quick-Service locations class as 1 credit regardless of whether they cost 12 or 20 dollars.
So it makes sense where possible, to go for the higher cost option.
With the Disney Dining Plan, use your table-service credits at eligible pricier restaurants or character dining spots. A buffet or all-you-care-to-enjoy meal offers higher value than a quick bite.
However, remember that your dining plan does not include gratuities for table service meals, so remember to factor this additional cost into your decision.
2. Snack smart
Don't waste valuable snack credits on bottled water or popcorn.
Look for items at snack carts or confectionary bakery treats that push the $6+ mark. The big savings add up quickly.
And should you be lucky enough to visit WDW during one of the many Epcot Festivals, then take the opportunity to sample dishes on offer from the many food booths around the park where most dishes = one snack credit.
3. Plan reservations in advance
If you’re on the Quick-Service Dining Plan, then you don’t need to worry too much about planning in advance for your meals.
If you are on the Disney Dining Plan, then a little bit of organising will ensure you get the best out of your plan.
Some of the most valuable restaurants (like Be Our Guest or Cinderella’s Royal Table) book up fast.
Make your ADRs (Advance Dining Reservations) 60 days in advance to avoid missing out.
4. Track your credits
Keep tabs on your dining credit balance using the My Disney Experience app or check receipts.
That way, you’ll avoid any last minute headaches (and stomach aches!) trying to use multiple meal and snack credits on your last day.
If you do find yourself with snack credits to spare on your last day, use them to get some bags of pre-packaged confectionery treats, which make great tasty souvenirs to bring home with you.
5. Share strategically
Portions at Disney can be generous.
Sharing meals allows you to conserve credits and reduce food waste, especially if you have light or picky eaters in the family.
6. Consider upgrading your plan
If your ‘Free dining’ deal comes as a Quick-Service Plan (i.e. you’ve booked a value or moderate level resort), but you plan to dine at multiple sit-down restaurants, maybe consider upgrading!
Before your stay you can call up Disney and pay the difference, to upgrade to the Disney Dining Plan and swap some of your quick-service credits into Dining credits.
Even though you’ll be paying something out of pocket, it can still cost less overall than booking those sit down meals separately.
7. Don’t overbook meals
It’s tempting to pack in as many dining experiences as possible, but remember: you need time to enjoy the parks too.
Consider the timings of your meals - for example, a character breakfast is a great way to start your day, and won’t take away too much of your park time. But, a lunch and dinner booking can take a real bite out of your schedule.
Our thoughts
Disney’s Free Dining promotion is a great addition to your Disney vacation package.
With a little bit of forward planning, you can experience so many eats and treats within your included dining package, without the need for a separate food budget.
Meaning the only dining stress you’ll encounter is deciding what delicious items to utilise your credits on.
