When we first discovered Disney Vacation Club (DVC), we saw it as more than just a timeshare—it was an investment in our family's future and a way to create lasting Disney memories. Our journey with DVC began with a big decision: instead of spending our savings on a traditional honeymoon, we decided to make a significant down payment on a DVC membership. That decision changed the way we vacation and has allowed us to experience the magic of Disney in a whole new way. Here’s how our DVC journey started and why we’ve come to love being members.
The Beginning of Our DVC Journey
When we first considered Disney Vacation Club, we were drawn to its flexibility and long-term value. While we initially thought of it as a great way to enjoy our honeymoon at Walt Disney World, it quickly became clear that DVC offered so much more. By investing in DVC early on, we locked in a future of magical vacations—without worrying about rising accommodation costs each year. And now, every year, we get to enjoy that same magic while making memories as a family, whether we’re at Walt Disney World or Disney's Vero Beach Resort.
What is Disney Vacation Club?
Disney Vacation Club is Walt Disney's take on the timeshare model, but with a twist. Instead of owning a set week each year at one specific resort, DVC members purchase annual "vacation points" that can be used to stay at a wide range of Disney resorts around the world. These points offer incredible flexibility in how and when you book your vacations. If you're new to DVC and want to dive deeper, check out my recent post here for all the ins and outs of this amazing membership!
Why Disney Vacation Club Works for Us
For our family, Disney Vacation Club has proven to be a great investment. While DVC isn't for everyone due to the upfront costs and ongoing dues, it has made our frequent Disney vacations more affordable in the long run. With DVC, we save on hotel accommodations over time, allowing us to enjoy more frequent trips. Plus, DVC members enjoy exclusive benefits like discounts on dining, merchandise, and access to special member-only events like Moonlight Magic. We never have to worry about booking accommodations or availability—our vacations are already planned and ready to go.
Choosing Our Home Resort
One of the first decisions we made as DVC members was selecting our "home resort." For us, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort in Florida was the perfect choice—it offered an affordable down payment, reasonable dues, and a beautiful setting for our family to enjoy each year. With an annual allocation of 160 vacation points, we have the flexibility to use them for stays at our home resort or any eligible DVC resort worldwide. This flexibility has allowed us to explore many of the other incredible properties across the Disney spectrum.
Exclusive Perks of DVC Membership
DVC membership comes with some fantastic perks that really enhance our Disney experience. These include early access to booking, exclusive discounts, and access to special members-only events. One of our favorite perks is the ability to relax in the Member Lounge at Epcot, where we can enjoy free soft drinks, charging stations, and Wi-Fi during the hustle and bustle of a park day. Plus, we love the exclusive after-hours events, like Moonlight Magic, where we get to enjoy the parks with shorter lines, free snacks, and special character meet-and-greets.
A Home Away from Home
What truly sets DVC apart for us is the "home away from home" feeling we get at Disney resorts. The accommodations at DVC properties are spacious, comfortable, and full of thoughtful details. Whether it’s a studio or a one-bedroom villa, we always feel at ease and relaxed—plus, many resorts offer full kitchens and separate living spaces, which makes staying with kids even easier. It’s the kind of comfort that lets us unwind after a magical day in the parks, and it's a big reason why we love our DVC membership.
Making the Most of Our Membership
One of the best parts about DVC is how we’ve been able to make the most of our membership. While DVC doesn’t necessarily save us money on every trip, it allows us to plan and budget for long-term stays that fit our family’s needs. Thanks to our points, we often stay in larger accommodations—complete with kitchens and more privacy for the adults—at the same price as we would pay for standard hotel rooms. This has really made a difference in our travel experience, giving us more space and comfort while still staying on Disney property.
A Long-Term Investment in Family Memories
In the end, Disney Vacation Club has become a long-term investment in our family’s happiness. While the upfront costs may seem significant, it’s the years of magical vacations that make DVC worth every penny. It’s not just about saving money—it's about the experiences, memories, and the sense of belonging that come with being part of the Disney Vacation Club family. For us, that’s the most valuable part of all.
If you're thinking about Disney Vacation Club or just love learning about the magic of Disney travel, check out my other travel blogs for more tips, tricks, and adventures beyond the parks. And for a behind-the-scenes look at our Disney adventures, make sure to follow me on Instagram!
