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Military Disney Tips Blog

By Military for Military

Ears of Experience Military Disney Vacation Experts
Home » Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions Page!

Here at Military Disney Tips We get lots of questions in many forms, blog post comments Facebook comments, and via email.

Many people ask the same or similar questions, so we decided that in an effort to get the info out to you in the most efficient manner, that we’d gather links to our answers here.

We’ll feature questions in many areas such as the Disney Armed Forces Salute, Tickets, Rooms, Shades of Green, and many more.

As the number of these answered questions builds up, you’ll be able to browse them all on this page.

Or to see questions in one category, just click on links under “FAQs By Category” below.

I hope you find this new feature helpful!

Steve

p.s.  you can still access our old Disney Armed Forces Salute FAQ

Military-Disney-Tips-FAQ-Friday-Page

 

FAQs By Category

The links below will bring up all posts for the category in a blog format

Disney Armed Forces Salute – General

Disney Armed Forces Salute – Tickets

Disney Armed Forces Salute – Resort Rooms

Disney Armed Forces Salute – All FAQs

Shades of Green FAQ

Dining FAQ

Disneyland FAQ

All FAQs by Category and Question

Below you will see all of the published questions grouped by their Category

Disney Armed Forces Salute – General

  • What Information Does Disney Collect During The Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket Activation Process?
  • Can I Use the Disney Armed Forces Salute at Both Disney World and Disneyland?
  • Am I eligible to participate in Disney’s Armed Forces Salute?

Disney Armed Forces Salute – Tickets

  • Can I Use a Disney Gift Card to Buy Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets On Base or at Shades of Green?
  • Do I Need to Activate My Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets to Make Theme Park Reservations?
  • Can I Upgrade My Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket?
  • How Can I Buy More Than 6 Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets for My Large Party?
  • Disney Sells Theme Park Tickets Cheaper Than Military Ticket Prices – Why Is That?
  • Can a Non-Spouse Military Dependent (Child) Buy Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets Using Their ID?
  • Is it Correct that I can only make one single purchase of Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Tickets?
  • If I Buy Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets While I’m a Military Member Can I Use Them After I Separate From the military?
  • I am a Disney Passholder, do I need to buy a Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket for myself too?
  • My Military Sponsor Can No Longer Go To Disney, Can I Use The Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets They Already Purchased?
  • Do Disney Passholders Need a Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket to Activate Salute Tickets for Others?
  • Why Can’t People Share a Disney Ticket?
  • I Am An Individual Ready Reservist, Am I Eligible For The Disney Armed Forces Salute?
  • If I Activate My Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket Prior, Can I Use It During Blockout Dates?
  • I Am Divorced From A Military Member, Can My Child Buy Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets Using Their Dependent ID?
  • Are Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets Eligible for Magic Mornings at Disneyland?
  • Can I Give My Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets to Someone Else to Use?
  • Can Multiple People Share A Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket?
  • I Don’t Have The Correct ID To Activate Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets
  • Can I Add a Day to the Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket?
  • What Information Does Disney Collect During The Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket Activation Process?
  • Does the Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Military Sponsor need to be with their guests at all times?
  • Are the Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets eligible for the Extra Magic Hours?
  • Is There a Limit On How Many Times I Can Purchase Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets?
  • Do I Have to Use My Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets All at Once?

Disney Armed Forces Salute – Resort Rooms

  • Are The Disney Armed Forces Room Discounts Always Available?
  • How Do I Make Resort Reservations Using the Disney Armed Forces Salute discount?
  • How many times can I use the Disney Armed Forces Salute room discounts?
  • Can I add the Disney Dining Plan to My Disney Armed Forces Salute Room Reservation?

Shades of Green FAQ

  • Does Shades of Green Participate In Disney World’s Magic Band Program?
  • I’m Not Staying at Shades of Green Can I Use Their Amenities (Ticket Office, Restaurants, etc)?
  • I’m Not Staying at Shades of Green Can I park there and Take the Bus to the Theme Parks?
  • Can I Use the Disney Dining Plan at Shades of Green?

Disney Dining FAQ

  • Can I Use the Disney Dining Plan at Shades of Green?

Disneyland FAQ

  • Are Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets Eligible for Magic Mornings at Disneyland?
  • Can I Use the Disney Armed Forces Salute at Both Disney World and Disneyland?

We Hope This Helps!

If you still have questions see our Disney Armed Forces Salute Full FAQ or the Disney Armed Forces Salute Main Page of Content.

You can also use the search function on every page.

This MDT Post By: Steve Bell

Steve is the the Military Disney Tips Founder. He a retired U.S. Military Member who's been touring the Disney Parks since 1971! Steve's mission is to help military families with their Disney vacations in every way. Check out Steve's Bio.

Subscribe to Steve's email newsletter to get website updates and news by clicking this link.

 

Planning a Disney Trip? Want to get the best military discounts that are available? Feeling a little confused? See Our Great Disney Discount and Planning Info:
  • Disney Veteran & Military Discount Eligibility Guide
  • The Military Family’s Walt Disney World Comprehensive Vacation Planning and Preparation Guide 
  • Military Disney Tips Disney Packing Checklist 
  • Disney Military Tickets – Your Start to Finish Guide
Learn about the Disney Armed Forces Salute the best military discount that there is for Disney. See our Topic Overview Pages:
  • Resorts/Hotel Overview Page
  • Dining Overview Page
  • Transportation Overview Page
  • Technology Overview Page
  • Shades of Green, WDW’s Military Only Resort

Military Disney Tips' Recommended Disney Travel Agent

Save on your Disney Vacation With Ears of Experience

Ears of Experience Disney Only Travel Agency. Military family owned and operated! They know all the ins and outs of Disney military discounts!

 
   


 

Comments

  1. Morgan says

    13 February 2016 at 15:39

    Hi! We have used 2 days of our passports at WDW, and in May would like to visit Disneyland. Can we use our remaining 2 days there with the same passports?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      13 February 2016 at 17:20

      Hi Morgan,

      Sorry, no you can’t. Disneyland and Walt Disney World tickets ate totally separate. They can each only be used at their own individual destination.

      Reply
  2. Carol Williams says

    9 March 2016 at 21:37

    My son (9) has a military ID his father is deceased (we were divorced). Can we stay at Shades of Green or get military discounted tickets with his ID?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      10 March 2016 at 06:59

      Hi Carol,

      I do believe that Shades will allow you to stay there though their website does not state this. You should definitely call to check.

      Re tickets: He is eligible to buy the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets (which are only slightly discounted) from Shades or Base Ticket Offices. He IS NOT eligible for the highly discounted Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets however, only the member or spouse in their place are eligible.

      See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/

      And http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Magic-Your-Way-Tickets.html for current prices which will be going up very soon based upon the recent general public price increase.

      Reply
  3. Anna says

    1 April 2016 at 10:22

    Hi Steve,

    My husband was a Merchant Marine. Does he qualify for any discounts?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      1 April 2016 at 14:04

      No I’m sorry he does not.

      Reply
  4. James says

    2 April 2016 at 19:08

    HI Steve,

    Thanks for all the info. It’s been a big help.

    My father and mother-in-law are the military members who are purchasing in advance the Salute tix for my family. My family is going to be arriving at Disney before they arrive. Is there a way that we could use the Salute tix before they arrive without them present? Could they activate them beforehand for all of us somehow?

    Thanks

    Reply
    • Steve says

      3 April 2016 at 08:39

      Hi James,

      It depends where they buy them. Shades of Green’s tickets come pre-activated, no others do.

      See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green/pre-order-disney-theme-park-tickets-at-shades-of-green/

      Reply
  5. James says

    3 April 2016 at 11:09

    Just to be clear. If my in-laws pre-purchase the Salute tix from Shades of Green and have them Fed-Exed, then they will be activated when sent? This means that my in-laws do not need to be present to show ID for my family to use them?

    Thx

    Reply
    • Steve says

      3 April 2016 at 16:33

      Correct James

      Reply
      • James says

        4 April 2016 at 08:04

        Ok Steve. I called Shades of Green to buy the Salute tix and they said the person with the military ID would still need to be present to activate the tickets at the gate. I’m confused now. What would you recommend I do?

        Reply
        • Steve says

          4 April 2016 at 23:09

          Hi James,

          I don’t know if you received mis or dis information. Their tickets are sold pre-activated now, but the real intent is that they be used with the member…

          Reply
  6. Linda Martin says

    14 April 2016 at 20:27

    We will be at Disney for 6 days. It is my understanding that the Salute tickets are good for four days, with four waterpark entries if that option is added. So could we go to the parks on days 1-4 and then use the waterpark entries on days 5-6?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      15 April 2016 at 05:02

      Yes, absolutely Linda.

      Or you could mix it up, no need to do all in a ro. Or even do a water park on the same day as a theme park.

      To see all the details of the Water Park Option, see this page: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Tickets/Disney-Water-Park-Fun-and-More.html

      Reply
  7. Nate says

    19 April 2016 at 07:36

    I need some help with a ticket issue. Basically, can a AFS park hopper ticket be upgraded to include the water parks option?

    I purchased the park hopper version for my son who turned three and he only used 2 days of it. The rest of the family’s APs expired and we are now back to getting AFS tickets. I want to get the park hopper and water park option this time, but don’t know what to do about the one ticket I bought without it.

    thanks!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      19 April 2016 at 18:31

      Absolutely Nate, You’ll just pay DIsney the difference between the Salute Hopper and Salute Hopper/WPF&M ($34).

      The info is on the Salute overview page: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html

      Reply
      • Nate says

        20 April 2016 at 11:35

        Can I do this at guest relations?

        Thanks for the help!

        Reply
        • Steve says

          20 April 2016 at 17:42

          Yes that would be a good place to try.

          Reply
  8. Denise says

    8 May 2016 at 13:05

    Steve,
    Have you heard any information on MNSSHP 2016, military ticket prices and dates ? Thank you

    Reply
    • Steve says

      9 May 2016 at 06:19

      Hi Denise,

      PLease see my update here: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/military-discount-prices-on-mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-2015/comment-page-1/#comment-306421

      I will be posting very soon, DIsney got with me, but waiting on them to clear up one confusing bit of crucial info. I will be posting VERY soon

      Reply
  9. Rachelle says

    15 May 2016 at 10:30

    Steve,
    I’m sorry if you’ve already answered this elsewhere, I can’t find it. We bought Salute tickets for our trip in January. There is one day remaining unused. My understanding is that I can upgrade to an annual passport for a trip this summer while there are still days remaining on our Salute ticket. Do they prorate how many days are left on the ticket toward the price or do they apply the full price paid ($196) toward the full price of the pass?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      16 May 2016 at 08:10

      Hi Rachelle,

      No problem! You can upgrade a Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket to an Annual Pass with one day left on it directly through Disney (or Shades of Green if you bought it there).

      The price is the difference between the Salute ticket cost (no prorating) and the type of pass you buy.

      Reply
  10. Rachel says

    30 May 2016 at 18:09

    Hi! I bought the salute ticket from SOG and was wondering if I will get magicbands with these tickets. Also am I understanding if I bought them from SOG, they are already activated and I won’t need to activate it at the gate? Thanks for the info.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      30 May 2016 at 21:16

      Hi Rachel,

      Magic Bands come with Disney Resort Room reservations, not tickets.

      If you are not staying at a Disney Resort and you’d like to have some you’ll need to buy your own, see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/my-magic-plus/magic-bands-for-shades-of-green-guests/

      Yes, Shades has begun selling pre-activated Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets.

      Did you buy them long distance? I’m surprised that they didn’t tell you.

      Reply
      • Rachel says

        1 June 2016 at 14:21

        We’re local so we just ran by there last week and bought them. Maybe she told me but I don’t recall. The tickets look different too and don’t say “exchange” on them. Thanks for all the great info you provide.

        Reply
        • Steve says

          1 June 2016 at 14:27

          You bet Rachael!

          Reply
  11. Vanessa says

    17 June 2016 at 08:49

    My son is active duty military. I am taking his children to Disney World in 3 weeks. They are 6 years old and they do not have a dependent ID. If he purchased the tickets for their entry into the park, how would we present the ticket at the gate? Or can we get the tickets without him being there? He does not have block leave now to travel with us. Or is there a way he can get written document for his children to be able to enter into the park with the military Disney tickets? Please advise!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      18 June 2016 at 06:33

      Hi Vanessa,

      Dependent children, whether they have ID or not are not eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute. They must be accompanied by a member or their spouse.

      Your son can however buy the slightly discounted Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets for the kids and you at his base ticket office and these can be used without his being present, just Like any other ticket.

      See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/

      Reply
  12. carey says

    9 July 2016 at 22:37

    will we be able to participate in Magical late hours if we stay in Shades of Green?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      10 July 2016 at 07:53

      Yes Carey,

      Shades guests can participate in Extra Magic Hours, see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Shades-of-Green/Shades-of-Green-Disney-Benefits.html

      Reply
  13. Mason Webb says

    25 August 2016 at 09:59

    Why don’t they offer veterans a discount. We served our country too. It just seems you are forgetting the onesame that were in the pass wars.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      25 August 2016 at 17:47

      Hi Mason,

      It’s for the same reason you no longer have access to enter a military base.

      Eligibility for the Disney Armed Forces Salute is set by the DoD, not Disney and is restricted to those with current IDs, those who are either currently serving or have served 20+ years and have earned continued base access (BX, Commissary, Ticket Office, etc.) and monetary compensation (retirement pay, discounts, etc.)

      Reply
  14. Thomas says

    30 August 2016 at 06:09

    We are active duty stationed in Japan. Can the Disney Salute passes be used at TOKYO DISNEYLAND or TOKYO DISNEY SEA? If so, where can I get the tickets?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      30 August 2016 at 06:55

      Hi Thomas,

      No, sorry the Disney Armed Forces Salute is only at stateside locations. The only discounts available would be any that were offered by the Base ticket offices in the Pacific area.

      Reply
  15. Ashley Waybright says

    1 October 2016 at 21:17

    Can you make a payments on a military salute discounted rooms? Or do you have to pay all up front. I’m sure it’s on this site someplace but can’t find it..

    Reply
    • Steve says

      1 October 2016 at 22:38

      Ashley, 1 night’s payment is required to reserve the room. You can continue to make payments if you like prior to arrival or pay the remainder at check-in.

      Reply
  16. Walt Bobby says

    9 October 2016 at 17:09

    Steve,

    Do I need to purchase my AFS tickets at the same Time? Planned a trip for April with my grandson need two tickets. Thinking about the wife and I coming down in late Oct for food and wine and might need two more tickets, but not sure.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      9 October 2016 at 17:55

      Hi Walt,

      No you may make several different purchases. We do all the time.

      Reply
  17. Tonya says

    10 December 2016 at 22:34

    My military sponsor does not live near Disney & can only join us for one day. Can they buy us 5 day passes & only one day for themselves or will they need to purchase a 5 day as well?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      11 December 2016 at 08:20

      Hi Tonya,

      No. In order to activate Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets for you they must have one of their own (4 or 5 day Salute ticket) still a huge savings when you average it all together. Or if they are a Disney Annual Pass Holder they can activate your tickets also.

      Reply
  18. sal says

    19 December 2016 at 14:27

    Steve Why does Disney not allow Shades buses direct drop off and pick up at Magic Kingdom and Epcot its a real hassle going through the TC back and forth or even taking the monorail via the poly and walking over to the shades especially after a long day at the parks would be great to go round trip directly someone needs to speak with the Disney folks about this.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      19 December 2016 at 17:53

      Hi Sal,

      To tell the truth I do not know if it is a Disney restriction, or a cost cutting measure by Shades (one bus line for both parks vs two).

      Reply
  19. Cathy Hamilton says

    21 December 2016 at 21:01

    WDW is offering Memory Maker for Military at a discounted price of $84.00. I just found out about it. I didn’t see it posted anywhere on your site (I searched, but perhaps I missed it?). It’s the first time I’ve heard of this discount! Have they ever offered this discount before?
    disneyworld.disney.go.com/special-offers/military-ticket-rates/

    Reply
    • Steve says

      22 December 2016 at 07:35

      Thanks so much for sending in the info Cathy!

      I appreciate getting intel from the field…

      I actually just saw it yesterday myself and have a post scheduled for next Monday. This is the first time ever!

      Thanks, Steve

      Reply
  20. Matt says

    19 January 2017 at 09:10

    Steve,

    I posted this question on another page, but thought it would be more appropriate here. I am in the Navy Reserves (IRR) and have the green ID card that is listed as eligible. I’m trying to plan a vacation for the family in June. When I called to book a Disney resort room for June, the lady mentioned that since I have the green ID card, I would have to also show activation papers when I checked in. I have asked around MWR and they have never heard of that before. Have you ever heard of this requirement before? I’m concerned that if I buy the Hopper passes and book a room at a Disney resort, I may not be able to use them once I get there (I have not been activated in over a year). Thanks for any help you can provide.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      19 January 2017 at 19:16

      Hi Matt,

      I’m the moderator for military comments on YourFirstVisit.net, so I saw it there too.

      I’ve got good news and bad news.

      The good news is that regular reservists (those who drill and are paid) do not have to show activation orders. Disney has awful internal communications and training, and their people just don’t deal with military discounts often (in the huge volume of other transactions), for military questions they often go on what they think, heard sometime, or do a network search and come up with old (sometimes very old) information. The having to show orders dates back to the post Desert Storm offer… Orders have not been required during the “modern” (2009 onward) Salute Offers. Besides active and reserve CACs are identical there is no way to know if you are active or reserve.

      Now we come to the bad news, the IRR, which is a non-pay, non-drill status, is not eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute room or ticket offers. Disney uses this incorrect confusing phrasing (because they are not military and do not really understand terminology) on their site ” “Eligible Service Members” are active or retired members of the U.S. Military, including the National Guard, Reservists, the U.S. Coast Guard…” What they really mean instead of “active” is “current, participating” and for reservists that means drilling, paid members who have a CAC not a green DD Form 2.

      If you live near a base, I assume you can access the base with your ID. So you could buy the Regular Military Discounted Disney Tickets, which will save your some, see http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/ if they will sell to you. Or you could contact a ticket office that ships and see if they will sell to you, see: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/buy-military-discounted-disney-tickets-by-phone/ These do not require activation.

      But do not buy the special Salute tickets. While someone at a base may sell you Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets, you are right to worry. It might be that you could slip through and activate them, again with unknowledgeable Disney personnel, but you probably wouldn’t and would then have to try to get them to let you use the Salute tickets that you purchased towards full price ones.

      Reply
      • Matt says

        19 January 2017 at 21:22

        Thanks for the quick response Steve. Its still confusing however because they now have a pamphlet with pictures of ID cards that they say are eligible and the green, DD form 2 one is there right underneath the CAC cards. When I questioned the MWR office about my eligibility, they showed me the list of eligible IDs and said I was good to go. I think this is what is causing a lot of the confusion.

        Reply
        • Steve says

          19 January 2017 at 23:23

          Hey Matt,

          I’m sure it is the same image as the one I have here: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-World-Military-Discount-ID-Guide.html

          You’ll note though that under the green DD Form 2 it says military active service personnel.

          This image has been around for years and I believe Disney just pulled the images off cac.mil where the green card is labeled as DD Form 2 (Reserve) thinking this was the current “active” reserve card.

          The thing is the IRR have never been eligible, they are really no longer in the military nor retired. You’ve got to be a current member or retired for the Salute.

          You could roll the dice, but I’d hate for you to be in a bind… It just depends on the Disney cast member checking the ID.

          You didn’t say whether you were planning for Disney World or Disneyland?

          Reply
          • Matt says

            20 January 2017 at 13:45

            Thanks Steve. I wonder how many families make that mistake. It could put a real big damper on their vacation. We are headed to Disney World.

          • Steve says

            20 January 2017 at 17:12

            You bet, if you’d like a little more info you can email me via my contact page (link in the menu or bottom of every page).

  21. Debbie says

    10 February 2017 at 12:24

    With Disneyland now offering 3/4 day tickets, would I be able to buy two of them as 3 day tickets and four of them with the 4 day option all in the same transaction?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      10 February 2017 at 12:34

      Hi Debbie,

      Yes you should have no problem doing that.

      Reply
  22. Johnnie says

    28 February 2017 at 12:24

    questions about reservations at SOG. Is it often filled to capacity? When you call 1 year to the date of arrival, can you book rooms for the full time you wish to stay at SOG? For instance, if I wanted to book 2/28/2018, could I call today & book 3 rooms for 7 days with no problem. ? That is, if it isn’t booked to capacity. And if it is, do they offer Over Flow rates at other resorts on Disney.?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      28 February 2017 at 19:13

      Hi Johnnie,

      They often fill to capacity but not a year out, save for the busiest times.

      Reply
  23. Kara Fredette Benitez says

    18 March 2017 at 07:55

    Hi Steve-
    I have a question about the stars and stripes tickets. I understand that these tickets need to be use consecutively. My main question is if I purchase a nine day stars and stripes pass am I able to take a break between days for instance if I go to the parks day one and two can I take a break and day three ?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      18 March 2017 at 08:35

      Hi Kara,

      Good question. Yes you can take a break, but you will loose money doing so.

      Shades of Greens policy says: “The number of days on your ticket must match your length of stay and must be used consecutively.”

      What they really mean by consecutively is that the ticket has a set length equal to your stay, it expires after that. You can’t not use a day and then use it later.

      So if you pay for a 9-day S&S, take a day off on day 3, you will only get to use 8 day’s of your ticket and lose the price difference between a 8 and 9-day ticket. But on a 9-day the is only 9 bucks…

      You didn’t mention the size or ages of your party, so just a tip but have you considered using back to back 4-day Salute tickets for at least some of the adults in your party? $418 for the 2 salute tickets vs $482a/$463.50c for a 9 day S&S. 3 adults/kids could do that and the remainder do the S&S (preferably kids).

      Reply
      • Kara Fredette Benitez says

        18 March 2017 at 16:16

        Thanks Steve-
        Our group is using the Stars & Stripes because we have used our allotment of salute tickets. We have about 10 to 11 people in our group.

        I just want to ensure that I understand what you are saying in your response to the Stars & Stripes tickets and a day off. Essentially you can take a day off but that will count as one of your days in the park is that correct?

        To make things even more confusing I have an additional question. Some of our group will be using both salute tickets and the stars and stripes tickets-we will be there almost 11 days. Can we designate which passes we would like to use first or second? I think we would like to use the Stars & Stripes tickets first and then the salute tickets. Thank for all your help!

        Reply
        • Steve says

          18 March 2017 at 16:29

          No problem Kara!

          So Shades makes you buy the S&S for the length of your stay. If you don’t use a day it isn’t deducted as a day from the ticket, but it can’t be used past the length of stay expiration. To say it another way the ticket will still have a day left on it when it expires. Hope that makes sense.

          For the mixed tickets. For each person the last ticket you link in their My Disney Experience profile will be the first one used by the system. It’s not a bad idea to drop by guest services before entering to check which will be deducted.

          Reply
  24. Sherri Judice says

    4 May 2017 at 11:01

    My single daughter is deployed to Kuwait and I have my 9-year-old grandson with me. I have POA for guardianship and we are going to Disneyworld. Can we purchase tickets with his military ID? Thanks

    Reply
    • Steve says

      4 May 2017 at 20:13

      Hi Sherri,

      Non-sopuse dependents like your grandson are not eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute, so you will not be able to use these highly discounted tickets.

      However he can purchase the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets. These are only slightly discounted. They can be purchased on base or at Shades of Green.

      See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/

      Reply
  25. Kari says

    9 August 2017 at 16:49

    I know we can upgrade the Disneyland 3 day ticket to a 4 day ticket, but my ticket office says that is not true and will not help me upgrade. Where do I go to upgrade the ticket?

    Also, if three days have already been used can you still upgrade to the 4 day ticket to get the extra day?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      9 August 2017 at 17:41

      Hi Kari,

      You need to do it at the Disneyland ticket booths. Yep you sure can as long as it is not used up.

      Reply
      • Steve says

        9 August 2017 at 17:41

        BTW they are correct in their own little small world, you can’t do it at the base ticket office.

        Reply
        • Kari says

          9 August 2017 at 17:56

          Thank you!

          Reply
  26. jennifer says

    13 October 2017 at 07:26

    Hello Steve. We are staying at SOG and have an 8:15 Character Breakfast at the Grand Floridian. I was reading on a FaceBook Disney group that the monorail doesn’t sometimes start running until 9:00; However when I looked it up on the Disney page, it said the monorail between the resorts started running at 6 a.m. I want to have transportation worked out, so could you please clarify? And if we can use the monorail, what time should we be on it to get to the Grand Floridian in time?
    As always, Thank you for your help!!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      13 October 2017 at 17:27

      Hi Jennifer,

      The monorail hours can vary and can change with some regularity. In general, expect the express monorail to start running at a minimum from one hour before park open to one hour after park close. The resort monorail often, but not always, starts at 6:30 a.m. to accommodate folks with 7:00 a.m. breakfast reservations.

      Check with monorail cast members in the days prior if possible.

      An uber ride would be about 2 bucks if needed.

      Reply
      • Jennifer says

        13 October 2017 at 22:55

        Awesome! Thank you!

        Reply
  27. Jennifer says

    16 October 2017 at 23:04

    Hi Steve! Sorry to keep pestering you….
    Does SOG allow grocery deliveries to be made and held at the bell hop desk the day you arrive? Was thinking about getting a couple cases of water and pop. (17 in our group)
    Thank you !

    Reply
    • Steve says

      17 October 2017 at 09:42

      Yes they sure do Jennifer.

      Just address to:

      Your Name, Guest, Arrival Date
      Care of: Shades of Green
      1950 Magnolia Palm Dr
      Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

      Reply
      • Jennifer says

        17 October 2017 at 22:53

        Thank you, Steve!

        Reply
  28. jennifer says

    26 October 2017 at 12:58

    Hi Steve! Was wondering your opinion about SOG being one of the resorts that might get the green light for 60 day Fast Passes?

    wdwnt.com/blog/2017/10/disney-world-extend-60-day-advance-fastpass-booking-guests-select-non-disney-hotels/

    Reply
    • Steve says

      26 October 2017 at 17:37

      Hi Jennifer,

      I’m not hopeful… They only participate in some Disney benefits as it is now. I assume there would be a monetary investment on their part to do so and I can’t see that happening (they won’t pay for you to get free theme park parking now).

      Reply
  29. Jennifer Kerkez says

    14 November 2017 at 23:08

    Hello,
    We wanted to visit Disneyland 12/28/17-1/1/18. Can we buy any special military tickets during that time? I noticed the multi-day passes are only good until 12/16?
    Thank you
    Jennifer

    Reply
    • Steve says

      15 November 2017 at 07:01

      Hi Jennifer,

      The special, highly discounted Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets are only valid through 19 December 2017 (on sale through the 16th).

      The Regular, slightly discounted Military Discounted Disneyland Tickets are always valid (these are multi-day too). See: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/

      Reply
  30. Brian says

    20 November 2017 at 12:27

    Steve,

    Any info on whether the new “Minnie Van” Service can be used to get to/from Shades of Green?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      20 November 2017 at 18:48

      Hi Brian,

      Minnie vans service an ever growing list of resorts i.e. they are stationed there and are also stationed at the parks. Though they will come to pick you up anywhere if you call 407-828-3500.

      The vans can also be requested via the Lyft app. Minnie Vans must be activated in your Lyft app by going to your resort front desk or the My Disney Experience app.

      Minnie Vans operate from 6:30 am to 12:30 am and only operate on property.

      Reply
  31. Christie says

    29 November 2017 at 17:11

    Hi, Are the Salute theme park hopper tickets the same price for children and adults? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      29 November 2017 at 17:52

      Yes they sure are Christie.

      Reply
  32. Brandy says

    5 April 2018 at 13:51

    Can you combine the Armed Forces Salute tickets and room discounts?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      5 April 2018 at 16:38

      Hi Brandy,

      the Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets may be combined with any Disney Resort “room only” reservation including the Disney Armed Forces Salute room rates, or any off site accommodations.

      Reply
  33. Karla says

    21 July 2018 at 15:31

    If my husband (service member) and I each book a room at Shades of Green can we both get the lower sponsor rate? Or will mine be at the guest rate? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      23 July 2018 at 07:03

      Hi Karla,

      Technically I think it would be the Sponsored Rate. But You could make 2 separate reservations. I’m not sure if they have measures in place to check for this (SSN)?

      Reply
  34. Jeff says

    20 August 2018 at 01:44

    Hi, any recent news about the Disney world military discounts for Armed forces salute 2019? thanks

    Reply
    • Steve says

      20 August 2018 at 06:43

      Hi Jeff,

      No, it’s too early yet.

      http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-armed-forces-salute/when-will-disney-renew-the-disney-armed-forces-salute-for-2019/

      Reply
  35. George says

    14 September 2018 at 22:01

    Hi, I am a Veteran with 100% disability. Would you book for Military families apply to me also. I know I can get some of the better discounts. Planning a trip for Jan 2019

    thanks

    Reply
    • Steve says

      15 September 2018 at 11:42

      Hi George,

      Are you DAVPRM? If so all the discounts apply to you!

      Reply
  36. Caylene says

    13 November 2018 at 10:49

    Our family of 6 is attending WDW twice in 2019: January and September. Could we buy 6 military salute tickets in 2018 to use in January and then buy the remaining 6 in 2019 to use in September? It’s unclear whether the 6 ticket limit is that you can only purchase 6 per year or use 6 per year.

    Reply
    • Steve says

      16 November 2018 at 10:00

      Hi Caylene.

      No sorry, you can’t do that.

      Everywhere on the site where I speak about the 6 ticket limit I am very clear that the limit is 6 tickets during the Salute offer period in question and that one Salute’s tickets are not good in any other salute offer period.

      Disney World and Disneyland are separate offers (companies) and so you can do 6 at one and 6 at the other during each offer period.

      If you want to go twice to Disney World the second trip you’ll need to use Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way tickets, see http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/

      note: full Salute details here: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/Disney-Armed-Forces-Salute.html

      Reply
  37. Jen says

    17 February 2019 at 10:33

    I am a ‘far in advance’ planner, and I will be looking to purchase tickets for Disney World parks to be used March of 2020. When do the Disney Armed Forces Salute park tickets prices and ability to purchase start for the following year?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      17 February 2019 at 11:09

      Hi there Jen,

      Kudos for the advance planning, I’m right there with ya.

      First Disney will have to decide if they will offer a Disney Armed Forces Salute in 2020 or not.

      If they decide to, expect an announcement late September 2019. Ticket prices and any blockout dates would be announced at that time.

      Tickets would be available for purchase in time for 60-day FastPass reservations for the first day of ticket eligibility in 2020 (1 Jan since 2017, 2nd or 3rd in previous years).

      Reply
  38. Ashley Daluz says

    17 May 2019 at 12:18

    If my husband buys 6 tickets for his family, can I still by 6 tickets for my family? We both have huge families and are really hoping we can buy tickets for everyone! We both are pass holders so we don’t need the tickets for us, just them. Thank you!!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      19 May 2019 at 07:44

      Hi Ashley,

      If both you and your husband are military members you can do that. If one of you is a military spouse then the limit is 6 Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets when you are talking about extended family.

      Also technically the limit for passholders is 5, though that is rarely enforced.

      This post about large extended families mentions your options: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/faq/i-need-more-than-6-disney-armed-forces-salute-tickets-what-can-i-do/

      Reply
  39. Gary says

    4 May 2020 at 13:20

    I am a 22 year retired Air Force member with a retiree military ID. I am also 100% totally and permantly disabled thru the VA. My military ID only shows Air Force retired/ Msgt. Do I need to have the DAVPRM added to my retireeID to qualify for the Salute to service Resort room and ticket discounts. I chatted with a cast member and they said the DAVPRM has to be on my ID. Although your site says retirees are eligeable. Call me confused. Any help would be appreciated.
    -Gary

    Reply
    • Steve says

      4 May 2020 at 14:18

      Hi Gary,

      The disability percentage and DAVPRM only enter the equation for those who are not retired.

      You got the conversation with the CM off track when you brought up the disability. Most CMs know very little about the military discounts Disney offers, most are just winging it…

      As a retiree (like me) you are eligible for all Disney Military discounts including the Disney Armed Forces Salute (room & tickets)!

      All that is needed is that retiree ID.

      Reply
      • Gary says

        4 May 2020 at 16:31

        Thank you for the clarification

        Reply
  40. Nancy Benson says

    13 January 2021 at 14:21

    We are planning a trip to Disney November 13-20, 2021 I am hearing that Disney reservations are already booking up and the Military Salute ends the end of September. do you know when Disney will announce anything about offers past September?

    Reply
    • Steve says

      13 January 2021 at 16:27

      Hi Nancy,

      The Disney Armed Forces Salute Room Discount goes through 17 Dec 2021, so no reason not to book a room now. If it’s the tickets you are waiting on, which do end on 26 Sept and can only be purchased for another month, I feel confident that there eventually will be a 2021 ticket offer.

      My gut feeling is that there will be a 2021 Salute ticket offer, at a higher price point. (they go up every year and the big anniversary starts in October).

      I do not expect them to extend the 2020 priced tickets into the anniversary.

      I’m hoping they will announce the new offer at or before the end of the current 2020 ticket purchase extension window.

      Reply
  41. Nancy Benson says

    13 January 2021 at 16:05

    We are planning on visiting Disney World in November 2021 and we are hearing that due to it being DisneyWorld’s 50th anniversary year, reservations are already filling up . Since the current salute tickets end at the end of September, is there any word when Disney will announce any new discounts for after that time

    Reply
    • Steve says

      14 January 2021 at 08:56

      Hi Nancy,

      No, Disney has been totally silent. THey’ve only said that they will be glad to share any new discounts when they are made available.

      I recommend that you make your reservation now, hopefully with the Disney Armed Forces Salute rate. It is just 1 night’s deposit. And with these room only reservations you can cancel up to 7 days prior with no penalty. THat’s if you decide not to go based on the ticket situation.

      Reply
  42. Lisa S. says

    14 February 2021 at 00:30

    Hello, we reserved a week long stay at SSR 21MAY TO 28MAY after purchasing only a 4-day AFS ticket. I know this may be a long shot and I also know you can add additional days and just pay the difference, but since we have a week long stay at a Disney resort, would we qualify for the current “Get two extra days added to your 4 day/3 night room & ticket package”?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Steve says

      14 February 2021 at 08:04

      Hi Lisa,

      Unfortunately it’s apples and oranges. Plus all Disney discounts including military ones have this rule: Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

      You’d need to cancel your (military rate I’m guessing) reservation and not use Salute tickets to get this deal.

      The deal you are referring to requires you to buy a full price room and ticket package to get the 2 days of extra tickets. (4 to 14 night stay required)

      I just did a quick pricing on WDW’s website for your dates at SSR, studio room, 2 adults/2 kids needing tickets, 6-day non-hopper tickets and it’s $5,424.22 before 12.5% tax. bumping it up to hopper tickets adds $362.08 You can do 5 -8 day tickets on this length of stay.

      Compare that to the rate you got and your 4-days plus any additions that you want to make to them.

      Like you said you could bump your 2020 Salute ticket’s up to 5-days or 6-days. and there is plenty of stuff to do on a non-park day at WDW.

      https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/walt-disney-world/top-11-free-or-low-cost-disney-world-activities/

      Reply
  43. Lee Schrock says

    20 May 2021 at 18:45

    Hi Steve

    We currently have two 4 day 2020 Salute PHP tickets bought at local base but can’t use them before September 26. We are going to Disney World in July but are doing a 9 night stay with regular tickets. If we go back in February 2022 will Disney let us apply the value of the expired tickets to new Salute tickets then? If so, we would not expect to be able to make Fast Pass reservations in advance, but would like to get some value out of the tickets.

    Thanks,
    Lee

    Reply
    • Steve says

      20 May 2021 at 19:31

      Hi Lee,

      Disney is allowing those who can’t use their 2020 Salute tickets by 26 Sept to upgrade them to 2021 versions, thus extending the end date to 18 Dec 2021.

      That is all they have offered to date. And I really think that they won’t go past that.

      https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-armed-forces-salute/using-disney-armed-forces-salute-tickets-in-2021/

      You might ask about using them towards full price tickets for your 2022 dates while there… All I can think of. If you wait for them to expire they will lose all value (which is what they normally do.

      Reply

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