Did you know that over 43 million people visited Disney theme parks in 2020? Despite the pandemic, many families took advantage of the smaller crowds and shorter lines to enjoy their favorite attractions at the most magical place on earth.
Do you and your family love going to Disney? If so, you’ll want to learn all there is to know about Disney vacation club, a timeshare program that makes staying at Disney vacation resorts more affordable over time.
So what is Disney vacation club? And is Disney vacation club worth it? Keep reading to learn the answers to these questions!
How Does Disney Vacation Club Work?
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a timeshare program where members can use their points to book Disney vacations. At the time of purchase, members buy a set number of points and pick a home resort.
Of course, different types of vacations cost a different number of points. Some factors that will determine how many points you use include:
- Time of year
- Choice of resort
- Vacation location
- Room size
- Length of stay
However, the program is quite flexible, and if members don’t use all their points one year, they can save them for next year. Or, if they need more, they can borrow from next year’s points.
Additionally, members can purchase more points if their current amount no longer fits their needs. And, they can sell your DVC membership if they no longer want it.
There are even companies that offer Disney vacation club rentals, so you can try out the DVC before becoming a member!
Where Can You Stay?
As mentioned, DVC points allow you to book different kinds of Disney vacations. However, these vacations aren’t limited to Disney parks. Let’s take a look at a few of the options available to DVC members.
Walt Disney World
There are a dozen resorts to choose from in Orlando, all within or near the parks.
For example, there’s Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, where guests can stay in a wooden bungalow on the water. Or, if you want to see the savannah from your window, you can reserve a room at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas at Kidani Village.
The best part is that many of these resorts offer dining plans, so you won’t have to worry about taking the family out after a long day in the parks.
Disneyland
Unfortunately, there aren’t as many options for Disneyland stays. So, if you live on the west coast, you’ll want to keep this in mind. Nevertheless, members can enjoy the Villas at the Grand Californian Hotel using their DVC points.
Disney Beach Resorts
In addition to Disney parks, members can use their DVC points for beach vacations.
On Hilton Head Island, in South Carolina, there are plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family, including kayaking, fishing, dolphin tours, and more! So, kids never get bored, and parents can relax on the beach!
Another Disney Beach Resort is in Vero Beach, Florida. Guests who stay here typically spend long days at the beach, sunning and swimming. However, there are plenty of fun activities, such as mini-golf and swimming pools.
For a more exotic experience, you can use your DVC points to stay at Aulani Disney Resort in Hawaii. This luxury hotel is right on the beach in Oahu and features fine dining and plenty of great activities.
Disney Cruises
DVC members aren’t limited to land vacations. They can also cash their points in for Disney cruises. The most popular routes are the Bahamas, other Caribbean islands, and Alaska!
Adventures by Disney
DVC members can also convert their points to cash to travel the world alongside Disney adventure guides. They make the trip effortless, so you don’t have to plan anything!
Hotels Worldwide
DVC members can also cash their points in for RCI timeshare stays, Concierge Collection hotels, or hotels in Disney parks worldwide.
Of course, not all Disney properties are available for booking with DVC points. But, with so many choices, you’ll have plenty of locations to explore as a family!
Benefits of Disney Vacation Club
Having such a wide variety of hotels to choose from is one of the reasons that DVC is so popular. Yet, there are other benefits to being a DVC member. Here’s a few of them!
Discounts
One of the best things about being a DVC member is getting a discount on annual passes, food, and merchandise. So, if you want to visit the park several times a year, you’ll save big!
Dining Plans
As a DVC member, you have the option to purchase a dining plan, which makes eating in the parks much more affordable. In addition, many DVC members love that the villas come equipped with kitchens, allowing them to save money by cooking their dinner.
Exclusive Perks
Throughout the year, Disney holds special events after hours for DVC members. They include free snacks and drinks and nearly-empty parks for families to enjoy.
Moreover, there are lounges in the parks for DVC members. These air-conditioned lounges are the perfect place to have a snack and cool off in the hot summer months.
Furthermore, members get freebies sent to them at home or while visiting the parks.
Guaranteed Annual Disney Vacation
DVC members never have to worry about Disney club vacation prices. Instead, they can use their available points whenever they would like, guaranteeing they’ll be able to take their family somewhere fun! Plus, planning services help them make the best use of their points.
Even if members don’t have enough points to stay in a more luxurious resort, they have the freedom to stop by and use the pools.
Is Disney Vacation Club Worth It? You Decide!
After reading this post, you better understand the Disney Vacation Club and the benefits of purchasing a membership. Of course, the Disney club cost will depend on how many points you buy, so be sure to research how many you will need.
So, is Disney vacation club worth it? That depends on how often you and your family plan on visiting the parks! But, for most people, the answer is yes!
Would you like more advice on planning the best vacations for you and your loved ones? If so, browse more of our travel posts!
