Ever wonder how we manage to take multiple Disney vacations each year without breaking the bank? It's a question our family often gets asked, and the answer is simple: Disney Vacation Club (DVC). If you're a frequent visitor to Walt Disney World or Disneyland and love staying on Disney property, understanding DVC might be the key to unlocking a world of savings, flexibility, and magic for your family.
For more Disney vacation tips and travel adventures, check out my other blogs or follow me on Instagram for a closer look at our family’s Disney experiences and travel tips!
What Exactly is Disney Vacation Club?
Disney Vacation Club, or DVC, is Disney's unique take on the traditional timeshare model. Instead of a fixed week each year, DVC operates on a points-based system, where you purchase "vacation points" annually. These points can be redeemed for stays at select Disney resorts, giving members access to a variety of accommodations, dining options, and exclusive perks across Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and other Disney destinations.
Choosing Your Adventure
With over 16 properties to choose from, DVC offers unparalleled flexibility and options. Whether you’re seeking the tropical paradise of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii, or the rustic charm of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, DVC has a resort that fits every vacation style. No matter which resort you choose, you’ll experience the same level of Disney magic and exceptional service that you know and love.
Deciphering the Points System
At the heart of DVC is the points system. When you join, you buy a set number of vacation points that you use every year to book your stays. The amount of points needed depends on the resort, the room type, and the time of year. For example, a stay in a standard studio at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge might start at 9 points per night, while a savanna-view club-level room could require 48 points per night.
What makes DVC truly special is its flexibility. You can use points for longer stays, shorter getaways, or even bank them for future trips or borrow points from future years. This system allows you to customize your Disney vacations to fit your family’s unique needs, whether you want to stay in deluxe resorts or spread your stays throughout the year.
The Cost of Joining Disney Vacation Club
Joining Disney Vacation Club comes with an upfront investment, with pricing typically based on a per-point rate. Most contracts range from 150 to 1,000 points per year, which can vary in price depending on the resort and current market conditions. While the initial cost may seem steep, the long-term savings can make DVC a great option for families who visit Disney multiple times a year, especially when factoring in the exclusive perks and discounts.
DVC members get access to fantastic benefits, including discounts on dining, merchandise, and park tickets. Special offers, like the Sorcerer Pass (an annual pass for Florida residents and DVC members) and free parking at DVC resorts, add extra value to your membership. Additionally, members can enjoy access to the member lounge at Epcot, member-only events, and exclusive cruises with Disney Cruise Line.
How Many Points Do You Need?
The number of points needed for your stay depends on factors like resort choice, room type, and travel season. For example, a standard studio at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge may only require 9 points per night, while a deluxe savanna-view room could cost 48 points. The beauty of DVC is that you can bank unused points for the next year or borrow from future points, offering a level of flexibility that makes planning future vacations easier.
Direct vs. Resale: Which Option is Right for You?
One major decision you’ll face is whether to buy directly from Disney or through a resale market. Buying directly from Disney gives you access to exclusive discounts and offers, but resale options can save you up to 50% off the initial price. It's a personal decision that depends on your budget and how you plan to use your membership.
Some families even start by purchasing a smaller amount of points from current DVC owners to get a feel for the program. It’s a great way to test the waters before committing to a larger contract.
Unlocking the Savings
Does DVC actually save you money? For families who make regular trips to Disney, especially those who enjoy staying at deluxe resorts, DVC can be a money-saving investment in the long run. Even families who usually stay at moderate resorts may find that DVC offers a cost-effective way to elevate their Disney vacations.
Where Can You Stay?
There’s a wealth of DVC resorts to choose from, each offering a unique experience. Here are some of the most popular DVC resorts across Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and beyond:
- Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas, offering both Jambo House and Kidani Village.
- Bay Lake Tower: Enjoy spectacular views of Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake from Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
- Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Experience the rustic charm of a Pacific Northwest getaway just steps away from Magic Kingdom.
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas: Relax in a charming, mid-Atlantic seaside escape at Disney’s Beach Club Villas.
- Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: Stay on the monorail line with breathtaking views of Magic Kingdom and the South Pacific vibes.
- Disney’s Riviera Resort: Opened in December 2019, this elegant resort offers five types of accommodations and is connected to the Disney Skyliner.
Each resort offers its own distinctive amenities, and with DVC’s flexibility, you’ll always find the perfect place to call home during your Disney vacation.
"How do you manage to take several Disney vacations annually without going broke?" That's a question our family often hears. Our answer? Three simple words: Disney Vacation Club (DVC). For frequent visitors to Walt Disney World or Disneyland who prefer staying on Disney property, understanding DVC could be the key to unlocking a world of savings and enchantment.
What Exactly is Disney Vacation Club?
Disney Vacation Club, or DVC, is Disney's innovative take on the traditional timeshare model. It's a points-based program that allows you to purchase an end-dated real estate interest at select Disney resorts. By purchasing "vacation points" annually, members gain access to a wide range of benefits and privileges.
Choosing Your Adventure
With over 16 properties across Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and various beach destinations, DVC offers unparalleled flexibility. Whether you're yearning for the tropical vibes of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, or the rustic charm of Disney's Wilderness Lodge, there's a resort to suit every vacation style and preference.
Deciphering the Points System
At the heart of Disney Vacation Club lies its unique points system. When you become a DVC member, you're essentially purchasing a yearly allotment of vacation points. Purchase a certain number of "vacation points" per year at a designated "home resort," and use them annually to book stays at any Disney Vacation Club resort in any room type and for any dates (availability permitting).
These points can be used to book accommodations at any Disney Vacation Club resort, offering members the freedom to tailor their vacations to their specific needs and preferences.
Depending on the home resort you choose, you'll find contracts currently available until between 2042 and 2070.
Calculating the Cost
Joining the magic comes with a price tag, of course. The cost of a Disney Vacation Club contract varies depending on how many annual points you purchase. Contracts typically include between 150 and 1,000 vacation points, with pricing based on a per-point rate. While the initial investment may seem significant, the long-term savings and perks often outweigh the upfront cost for avid Disney travelers.
DVC members get access to quite a few perks and discounts that can really add up, depending on how you travel. DVC members enjoy an array of exclusive perks and discounts, adding an extra sprinkle of magic to their Disney experiences. From savings on dining, merchandise, tickets, and tours to access to unique offerings like the Sorcerer Pass—an annual pass category reserved for Florida residents and DVC members—the benefits are truly enchanting.
Members also gain entry to the member lounge at Epcot, where complimentary soft drinks, Wi-Fi, and charging stations await. Plus, there are special member cruises on Disney Cruise Line, free parking at DVC resorts, and the opportunity to attend Moonlight Magic events. These after-hours extravaganzas provide exclusive access to Walt Disney World theme parks, complete with complimentary snacks, soft drinks, character sightings, and shorter wait times at rides—a truly enchanting experience for Disney enthusiasts.
How Many Points do I Need?
Determining the number of points needed for each of your future stays is equivalent to unraveling a magical equation, influenced by various factors such as the chosen resort, length of stay, seasonality, and room type. For instance, a standard studio villa room at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge starts at 9 points per night for accommodations that comfortably sleep up to four guests. Conversely, indulging in a club-level room with a savanna view may require 48 points per night, offering a truly elevated experience amidst the wildlife.
The beauty of Disney Vacation Club lies in its flexibility. Your points can be utilized in myriad ways—whether you opt for a grand, extravagant vacation or several shorter getaways spread throughout the year. Additionally, you have the option to "bank" vacation points for future use or "borrow" them from upcoming years to secure a stay in the current "use year." This means you could potentially purchase a contract with fewer points than needed for your ideal stay, leveraging the power of banking and borrowing to fulfill your vacation dreams every two or three years—a testament to the enduring value and versatility of the Disney Vacation Club membership.
Direct or Resale: Making the Choice
One of the key decisions for prospective DVC members is whether to buy directly from Disney or on the resale market. Buying direct offers certain advantages, such as access to exclusive discounts and events. However, resale purchases can provide substantial savings—sometimes up to 50% off direct-from-Disney prices. It's a decision that ultimately depends on your budget and preferences. If you want a try before you buy, you can also buy points from current Disney Vacation Club members for a one-time trip which may be exactly what you need to see if it is valuable for your family.
Unlocking the Savings
But does Disney Vacation Club actually save you money? For families who visit the parks regularly, stay in deluxe resorts, and plan to do so for years to come, the answer is often a resounding yes. Even for those who typically opt for moderate resorts, a DVC contract could prove to be a cost-effective investment in the long run.
Where Can You Stay?
With many Disney Vacation Club resorts currently available, and more on the horizon, the options are endless. From the modern elegance of Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort to the island paradise of Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, each property offers a unique experience that's sure to create unforgettable memories.
Currently, there are many Disney Vacation Club resorts, with additional projects announced and under construction.
- Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas: Immerse yourself in the wild wonders of Africa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas, boasting two distinct locations, Jambo House and Kidani Village.
- Bay Lake Tower: Enjoy unparalleled views of the Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake from Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort.
- Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge: Nestled among majestic pine trees, discover the rustic charm of the Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge.
- Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge: Embark on a rustic retreat with a Pacific Northwest vibe, just a stone's throw away from Magic Kingdom.
- Disney's Beach Club Villas: Experience the relaxed elegance of early 20th-century mid-Atlantic seaside homes at Disney's Beach Club Villas.
- Disney's Boardwalk Villas Resort: Step back in time to the bustling atmosphere of Atlantic seaside resorts at the Boardwalk Resort.
- The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Indulge in Victorian elegance combined with Disney's legendary service at this exquisite resort, reminiscent of the opulent beachfront hotels of the 1890s.
- Disney's Old Key West Resort: Feel right at home with a hearty "Welcome Home" as you enter the gates of Disney's Old Key West Resort.
- Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: Located along the monorail line, this DVC property offers stunning views of the Magic Kingdom and captures the spirit of the South Pacific.
- Disney's Riviera Resort: Opened in December 2019, this elegant resort boasts five different accommodation types and is connected to various areas of Walt Disney World property via the Disney Skyliner.
- Reflections - A Disney Lakeside Lodge: Nestled along the shores of Bay Lake, this nature-inspired resort promises a tranquil escape, with over 900 rooms designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
- Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa: Set amidst serene lakes and lush landscapes, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa offers a delightful equestrian-themed retreat.
- DVC at Disneyland Resort: Experience luxury at Disney's Grand Californian, nestled within the heart of the Disneyland Resort.
- Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort: Embrace the charm of Carolina island-style architecture at this resort, nestled among ancient live oak trees and picturesque marshes.
- Disney's Vero Beach Resort: Enjoy the tranquility of the Atlantic Ocean at this premium beach resort, featuring spacious vacation villas and stunning coastal views.
- Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa: Set amidst the breathtaking beauty of Ko Olina, Hawaii, this oceanfront resort offers a tropical paradise away from the crowds, where guests can savor the wonders of the island in luxurious comfort.
In essence, Disney Vacation Club isn't just about vacations—it's about embracing a lifestyle of adventure, enchantment, and endless possibilities. So, if the idea of making Disney your home away from home sounds like a dream come true, perhaps it's time to unlock the magic of DVC and start your family's next chapter of Disney adventures.
If you love Disney travel and want more tips, don’t forget to check out my other blogs for travel adventures beyond the parks. And be sure to follow me on Instagram for even more inspiration on making the most of your Disney experience!
