Everything You Need to Know About the Disney Dining Plans

If you're planning a Walt Disney World vacation, you've probably heard about the Disney Dining Plans—and if you're anything like me, you’re wondering: Are they really worth it? Let’s break it all down so you can decide what works best for your family, your budget, and your appetite (because let’s face it, Disney food is half the fun!).

What Is the Disney Dining Plan?

The Disney Dining Plan is a pre-paid meal package that you can add to a Walt Disney World Resort vacation package when staying at a Disney hotel with theme park tickets. Instead of pulling out your wallet for every churro and Dole Whip, you use dining credits that are loaded onto your MagicBand or MagicMobile.

There are currently two plans available:

Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan

Perfect for families who want fast, flexible meals without reservations. Think: mobile order, grab-and-go, and heading right back to the fun.

Includes (per person, per night):

• 2 Quick-Service Meals

• 1 Snack or Non-Alcoholic Beverage

• 1 Resort Refillable Drink Mug

Best for: On-the-go families, park commandos, and picky eaters who prefer burgers and nuggets over sit-down meals.

Disney Dining Plan

This one adds a mix of table-service and quick-service meals, so you can plan character breakfasts or enjoy a relaxing dinner without worrying about the bill after.

Includes (per person, per night):

• 1 Quick-Service Meal

• 1 Table-Service Meal

• 1 Snack or Non-Alcoholic Beverage

• 1 Resort Refillable Drink Mug

Best for: Foodies, families who want character dining, and anyone who enjoys a slower-paced experience.

Perks of Using a Dining Plan

• Budget-friendly: Pay in advance, no sticker shock during your trip.

• Convenience: No fumbling for payment every time your kids spot a snack cart.

• Try New Things: Order what you want! Appetizers, desserts, character buffets… it’s covered.

Which plan might be right for you?

For me, the Quick Service works best as I am a picky eater, and my son is autistic. I’m not going to make him sit at an hour long meal with unfamiliar food that we may not even like .

With that being said, friend and fellow travel advisor, Katie and her family are adventurous eaters and love to take a break to eat a meal they can’t experience anywhere else.

So it’s really up to you and what kind of park-goers you and your family are!

Pro Tips from a Disney Mom & Vacation Expert

1. Use Snack Credits Strategically

Skip the bottled water and go for high-value treats!

EPCOT festival booths, Starbucks drinks, or those giant Mickey pretzels and cupcakes often cost $5–$8+ and count as a single snack credit.

2. Character Dining = Big Value

Want to stretch your Table-Service credits? Book character meals!

They’re some of the priciest meals on property, often $45–$80+, and they include the entertainment—perfect for little ones.

3. Share Quick-Service Meals

Portions at Quick-Service spots are large.

Sharing meals helps you stretch your credits, especially if you’re not super hungry or want to try multiple items.

4. Use Snack Credits for Your Last Day

Don’t let snack credits go to waste—use them to grab packaged snacks or candy for the flight home (or to keep the magic going!).

5. Use Table-Service Credits for Dinner, Not Lunch

Dinner is typically more expensive than lunch at most Disney restaurants.

Since a Table-Service credit is worth the same no matter when you use it, you'll get more value by booking dinner—especially at buffets, character meals, or prix fixe me.

6. Refill Those Mugs Often

Take full advantage of your Resort Refillable Mug!

Unlimited refills on soda, coffee, tea, and more at any Disney resort—not just the one you’re staying at.

7. Let Your Travel Agent Handle Reservations

Dining reservations open 60 days in advance, and top spots go fast.

Your Allonsy agent will wake up early and book your must-dos so you don’t have to lift a finger.

8. Always Get Dessert

Most Table-Service meals include dessert—don’t skip it, even if you box it to go!

 Make the most of what you’ve paid for, and try something you wouldn’t normally order.

9. Mobile Order = Time Saver

Use Mobile Order for all Quick-Service meals to skip lines and eat on your schedule.

Pro tip: order before you’re hungry so it's ready when you are.

10. Know Where to Get the Best Bang for Your Buck

Some restaurants offer better value than others.

Ask your Allonsy Travel Specialist for personalized recommendations to stretch your credits and enjoy the best bites.

New for 2026: Kids Eat Free with Disney Dining Plans!

Planning a 2026 Disney vacation? Great news for families with littles—kids ages 3–9 can get a FREE Disney Dining Plan or Quick Service Dining Plan when the rest of the travel party purchases a dining plan as part of a Walt Disney World Resort package!

That means Mickey waffles, mac & cheese, and all the snacks in between—included at no extra cost for your kiddo(s).

This promo can save hundreds of dollars for families with young children, making character meals and themed restaurants even more magical and budget-friendly.

Ready to Plan?

We help families customize their Disney vacations—meals and all! If you’re not sure which plan is right for you or want help booking those coveted dining reservations, WeI’ve got your back (and your belly).

Use the link below to request a proposal with your favorite Allonsy Travel Agent today—and let’s make your Disney dining dreams come true! 

Request a Vacation Proposal

Hi, I’m Jennifer! I’ve been a travel agent since 2022, specializing in unforgettable family vacations. As a mom, I know how important it is to plan a trip that keeps everyone happy. Whether it’s the magic of Disney, the thrills of Universal, or the relaxation of a cruise, I’m here to help you check off your must-dos and make lasting memories. Because, as Genie says, 'You've never had a friend like me' - and I'm here to make your travel dreams come true!