I will say the debate to DP or not is aways an internal frustration
We did the DxDDP on our 1st trip and loved not caring what we ordered and having so many signature meals and Character meals. It was all paid for and when all said and done - I don't know or care if there was or wasn't savings.
Then my next trip was spur of the moment - 4 days advance notice so we OOP everything and OUCH was it painful signing some of those receipts BUT it was nice to have the option to order what we wanted. DS loves seafood and sushi so not be on the plan allowed him, even at 6 to enjoy real food.
June trip is staying off site - I know, but its going to be OK..lol
December trip we are funding a Grand Gathering for DH's family and I am very torn with what to do. I originally wanted the DDXP so there was no worries and all prepaid. Well - under the military 40% room discount - they aren't allowing us to pay for DxDDP just the regular (ARGH!!!). So I am torn. His parents won't enjoy many CS meals at all and will prefer the relaxation of TS meals and we definitely wanted to do many of the nicer ones. So that would require a lot of OOP in addition to the
DDP. DMIL is a very picky eater and I can see her wanting nothing more but chicken nuggets and a fancy desert. Well that's kinda challenging under any dining plan. I just didn't want to cringe every time the most expensive meal was ordered (if I was paying OOP). For some mental reason - prepaying for the DxDPP is easier to swallow then slow and gradual pains at every meal..lol
Heck - I even contemplated adding additional kids to the room reservations for additional meal credits - thinking that would be cheaper then paying OOP for all the extra TS.
Because there will be 10 of us and because we also like our adult drinks - I am actually leaning towards the purchase of an AP soley for the discount card. I figured I can use it during my summer off site trip and save on my meals and parking them and forgo the DDP in December and just take the 20% or basically free tip on those meals...
Problem would be solved if Disney would just allow us to buy the DxDDP plan.
Oh another positive plug for the DP's in general - HOLIDAY surcharges
Sorry to be so long winded - as you can see I am not sure what I want to do...Feel free to share opinions or advice as I am turning into MUSH