I've been to 5 of them. The last 2 that I went to (Baltimore 05, Cincy 08) I skipped the Banquet and opted to go out on the town. While the banquet was OK, the food wasn't exceptional, and I didn't really know anyone who had a shot at a medal, so we hit a great restaurant and some really good pubs instead. I may have spent a bit more than I saved on the package, but it was worth it.
So if you're not all that enthused about the banquet, get the package that includes everything else. Don't miss the seminars, Club night, or Pro Brewers night.