If you’re a Disney fan, you’ve likely heard of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC). This timeshare program allows guests to purchase a set number of points that can be used to book stays at Disney Vacation Club resorts. But what exactly are points, how do you use them, and what are the pros and cons of joining the DVC?
What is Disney Vacation Club?
The Disney Vacation Club is a timeshare program operated by Disney that allows members to purchase points that can be used to book stays at Disney Vacation Club resorts. These resorts are located at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Aulani, Vero Beach, and Hilton Head as the primary locations and feature accommodations ranging from studios to multi-bedroom villas.
What are points?
Points are the currency of the Disney Vacation Club. Members purchase a set number of points each year, which can be used to book stays at Disney Vacation Club resorts. The number of points required for a stay varies based on the resort, the room type, and the time of year.
How do you use points?
Using points to book a stay at a Disney Vacation Club resort is a fairly simple process. Members log in to the DVC website and select the resort and room type they’d like to book. The website will then show the number of points required for the stay. Members can also use their points to book stays at other Disney resorts, or to book cruises, guided tours, and other Disney experiences.
Pros of Joining the Disney Vacation Club
One of the biggest pros of joining the Disney Vacation Club is the ability to save money on Disney vacations. By purchasing points, members essentially pre-pay for their future Disney vacations at today’s prices. This can be a great way to lock in savings and avoid price increases down the road.
Another pro of the Disney Vacation Club is the flexibility it offers. Members can use their points to book stays at a wide variety of Disney resorts, including some of the most popular and sought-after resorts on Disney property. Members can also use their points to book non-Disney vacations, giving them even more options for their travels.
Cons of Joining the Disney Vacation Club
One potential downside of joining the Disney Vacation Club is the upfront cost. Members must purchase a set number of points each year, and the cost of those points can be significant. Additionally, members must pay annual dues to maintain their membership, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
Another potential con of the Disney Vacation Club is the limited availability of certain resorts and room types. Members may find it difficult to book stays at popular resorts during peak travel times, which can be frustrating for those who like to plan their vacations well in advance.
Conclusion
Overall, the Disney Vacation Club can be a great way to save money on Disney vacations and enjoy the flexibility and convenience of a timeshare program. However, it’s important to carefully consider the upfront costs and ongoing dues before joining. To learn more about the Disney Vacation Club and compare the costs of different membership options, check out our spreadsheet for more information.