There’s no doubt that timeshare has its haters. Can you go wrong when you’re signing up with one of the best-recognized and most reputable brands in the world though?
Disney is a $238 billion corporation specializing in creating magical experiences for its clients. So you’d think you were safe with them, right?
Let’s find out by investigating Disney Vacation Club benefits without the sales jargon.
1. Discounted Disney Vacation Club Benefits
Disney membership comes with a host of benefits to make your stay more enjoyable. These include discounts on the following things.
Dining and Shopping
Fact: Disney Vacation Club members get 10% to 20% off dining and shopping at Disney Springs and all Walt Disney World resorts and theme parks.
During the slow season, these discounts often increase to 30% off.
Annual Passes
DVC members get $100 off per person when they buy a Platinum or Platinum Plus Annual Pass.
All Disney Vacation Club members can buy a Gold Pass, usually reserved for Florida residents.
Day Passes
Unfortunately, discounted park entry is only offered during slow times. When available, they offer some very real savings on your visit to Disney’s top destinations.
Special Events Tickets
DVC members get 15% off theme park tours, as well as flat rates at some shows.
You’ll also pay less for annual events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.
2. Special Events
Apart from saving on run-of-the-mill public events, DVC members get a host of special events throughout the year tailored just for them.
When you attend one of these, you get unlimited ice cream and other refreshments, free entertainment, and a chance to “meet” some of the rarest Disney characters.
Some of the best ones in previous years include:
- Typhoon Lagoon Beach Bash
- Safari Spectacular at the Animal Kingdom
- Disney California Adventure’s and 25th Anniversary Bash
- Moonlight Magic at the Magic Kingdom
These special occasions add that little extra to your Disney trip, and it’s worth planning your vacation around them.
3. Pool Hopping
The pool hopping privileges offered to Disney members drive other Walt Disney World guests green with envy.
DVC guests are free to use any pool they want, no matter which resort they’re visiting. There are a few exceptions, but this is one perk that allows you to really make the most of your membership.
4. Housekeeping Perks
Free laundry might not seem like a big deal, but it can be if you’re flying out to your destination.
The ability to wash clothes during your trip at no cost is not only a direct saving, but it also means you can arrive with less baggage.
Access to a fully-equipped kitchen in your villa is another great benefit of DVC membership. You can save a ton of money on eating out when you have the ability to cater to yourself.
5. Access to the Top of the World Lounge
Disney Vacation Club members have exclusive access to this luxurious location at the top of the Disney empire. The views alone are enough reason to venture up to the top of Bay Lake Tower.
One the one hand, you can see the whole Magic Kingdom. On the other, you’ve got views over the resort pool all the way to Epcot in the distance.
It’s a wonderful place to escape the crowds, get a bird’s-eye view of the fireworks on occasion, and try their fabulous seven-layer cake. There’s also an excellent selection of craft beers available and the usual Disney menu.
Access to special events is usually restricted, but the lounge is rarely busy, so exceptions are often made.
6. Entry to the Imagination Lounge at Epcot
The gorgeous new Imagination Lounge at Epcot is accessible to Disney Vacation Club members and up to 5 guests.
You can slip into the venue via the gift shop after you’ve taken the Journey into Imagination, or enter through a private door on the side of the building.
Here you’ll get free cola and snacks, and a chance to relax in air-conditioned comfort away from the crowds. There are a couple of games for the children, as well as Disney movies broadcasted on the flatscreen TVs.
7. Huge Savings on Accommodation
The main benefit of a Disney Vacation Club is the amount you’ll save on accommodation. If you use your membership wisely, take advantage of discounts and travel often, it will pay for itself in a few years.
If you do run out of vacation points and you haven’t had your fill of Disney for the year, you can still enjoy savings on your trip.
The perks of DVC membership extend to renting the extra time you need at vastly discounted rates. Members can save up to 25% off the accommodation rates at all Disney Vacation Club resorts.
These include:
- Bay Lake Tower
- Jambo House & Kidani Village
- The Beach Club Villas
- The BoardWalk Villas
- Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
- Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Villas
- Old Key West Resort
- Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
- Riviera Resort
- Boulder Ridge Villas
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins
- The Villas at Grand California Hotel & Spa
If you’re constantly running out of points, perhaps it’s time to consider another one of the perks associated with Disney membership.
You can always get more points via DVC sales or sell your points as your needs change.
Travel Your Way
So there you have it: the cold hard facts about Disney vacation club benefits. If you’ve got small kids or are an avid adult Disney enthusiast, it may be worth looking in to.
Like all timeshares, Disney Vacation Club is a worthwhile expense if you know how to use it.
If you prefer more varied travel destinations, or don’t vacation often, browse through our blog for some more top travel tips.
