If I book a package through Walt Disney World, and a special discount, such as add free meal plan happens later, will I be able to work with them to get back the difference? We will be going in October, and even through mousesavers and DIS discounts, there are no specials right now. Thanks!

What did Disney folks say when you asked them that question directly? I would expect that they'd be a more definitive source.

October Discounts will not come out until this summer. The only time there will probably not be any discounts is during Mickey's Very Scary Halloween Party over Halloween and possibly during the International Food & Wine Expo.

I think you can go ahead and book then if discounts come out, book again then cancel the original.

Disney is kind of different in that you don't need to give them a credit card (up until recently reservations didn't take credit cards) but you send in a deposit.

I think 45 days before arrival final payment is due.

So if it makes you feel better, absolutely book now.

One caveat, unless things have changed, you don't modify and existing reservation but make a brand new one then cancel the existing.

With a package, you have up to 45 prior to your scheduled arrival to make changes or cancellations without penalty of any kind. So, yes, you can call and ask them to honor the discount or special offer. It won't happen automatically.

Book the minimum level package to ensure your room reservation and then add on later. Don't pay for upgrades - like free mini-golf - that you probably won't have time or energy to use anyway

From 45 days to 5 days prior, you can upgrade your package at no charge. Any changes resulting in a reduction of cost incur a $50 fee. But a last minute offer of free meal plan (like they did last fall) or something similar would be well worth the fee.

aj, can you cancel and rebook?

That way you would not have to pay the $50 charge.

z3fan, all fall and January Disney was offering the $1500 package which was room, tax, and park hoppers for a family of four onsite. Not sure about meals but I think it did.

Start reading the Sunday Travel Section of the New York Times. They usually always have specials.

They're great about changing the reservation - we did it twice when we were taking a group. The $50 fee is only a factor once you're within 45 days of your arrival. With packages, there is a $100 cancellation fee if you cancel within that 45 day - so the $50 fee is the less expensive option. You currently have to pay a $200 deposit w/in 14 days of reserving your package - the fees come from that deposit if you change or cancel your reservation. Final payment on packages are now due 45 days prior to check-in. Again, if you have to cancel during days 6 - 44 prior to check in, you can - you just loose the $100.

If you do a room only reservation - not a package - you must pay one night's room rate as the deposit within 14 days of reserving your room. The final payment is due at check-in and you can change or cancel your reservation without penalty up until 5 days prior to check-in.

So, one option for z3fan123 is to book a room-only reservation and upgrade to the package later on.

FREE dining is coming back at Walt Disney World! Yes, for stays starting August 13 - September 30, you can get the Magic Your Way Plus Dining package for the price of a regular Magic Your Way package! This was a hugely popular deal last Fall. ONLY Disney Rewards Visa cardholders can book this package starting April 1. The general public will be able to book it starting April 4.

This information is from www.mousesavers.com