How Does Disney Vacation Club Work? [All You Need to Know]

Have you ever visited Disney World and wished you lived there? While you can’t make Cinderella’s Castle your home away from home, you can get pretty close! In fact, there’s a way that you and your family can return to both Walt Disney World and Disneyland year after year: Disney Vacation Club. This vacation ownership program unlocks a whole new world of vacation experiences. With a Disney Vacation Club membership, you’ll enjoy spacious accommodations, luxurious amenities, and more! Want to learn more? Then you’ve come to the right place! From DVC points to exclusive perks, we’ll help you answer the question, “How does Disney Vacation Club work?”

What Is Disney Vacation Club?

Before we talk about how Disney Vacation Club works, let’s go over what the club actually is. Disney Vacation Club (also known as DVC) is a timeshare ownership club under Disney Vacation Development. DVC works by giving owners priority access to stay in top Disney resorts in Orlando, Hilton Head Island, California, Hawaii, and Vero Beach. With its first resort opening in 1991, Disney Vacation Club has grown in size over the last 30 years, becoming one of the best vacation clubs to join. In fact, there are now 17 DVC resorts across the country! To become an owner, known as a Disney Vacation Club member, you must purchase DVC points either directly from Disney or on the DVC resale market.

Disney Vacation Club is one of the first timeshare brands to introduce a points-based system to owners. When you become an owner of Disney Vacation Club, your contract will indicate how many DVC points you will receive every year. How many you purchase is entirely up to you and really boils down to your vacation preferences.

How Do Disney Vacation Club Points Work?

So, how do Disney Vacation Club points work? DVC points can be used to make reservations at any one of the 17 Disney Vacation Club resorts. All owners can stay at any resort anytime, depending on resort availability. While this benefit is great for travelers who want some variety on their vacations, it can also be difficult to make last-minute reservations. This is because there is a lot of demand, and DVC reservations can fill up quickly.

All DVC contracts are attached to your “Home” resort, where you have priority booking windows before other DVC members. The best way to make Disney Vacation Club points work for you is to plan your vacations ahead of time. This way, you won’t miss out on booking the dates or resort you want. DVC members can also use their points to book a Disney Cruise Line voyage. So, you can sail across the ocean with the magic of Disney!

But the flexibility doesn’t stop there. DVC members can also exchange their points for stays at select resorts worldwide through Interval International. This means you can swap a trip to Walt Disney World for an adventure at a partner resort in destinations like Mexico, Europe, or the Caribbean. Plus, your points can be used for other Disney experiences, including Adventures By Disney guided tours and National Geographic Expeditions, opening up a world of possibilities beyond traditional resort stays.

It’s important to note, however, that while exchanging your points for cruises, guided tours, or international resorts certainly adds options, you’ll typically get the best value for your points when you use them at a DVC resort. If maximizing your vacation value is a top priority, sticking with DVC properties is usually your best bet.

Banking Disney Vacation Club Points

If you don’t plan on using all of your points this year, bank them for next year’s use to take more vacations. This is also a great way to book one longer, better vacation the next year. Points must be banked within the first eight months of your Use Year. Otherwise, you must spend them, or they will expire. Furthermore, banked points cannot be banked again, so be sure to use them the following year so they don’t go to waste.

Borrowing Disney Vacation Club Points

Owners can borrow points at any time to complete a reservation that will require more points than they currently have. If you are planning to take an epic vacation but don’t have enough points, simply borrow them from the following year. Keep in mind that you can’t borrow points unless you are out of points for a reservation. Also, you can only borrow from the next year, not any afterward.

Maximizing the Value of Your Disney Vacation Club Points

Making the most out of your Disney Vacation Club points requires a mix of planning and flexibility. Savvy DVC members know that your annual points can stretch further—and unlock more magical experiences—when you get strategic about how, when, and where you use them. Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help maximize the value of your membership:

Plan Early for Popular Times

Booking well in advance at your Home resort helps secure your preferred dates and rooms, ensuring you get the most out of your priority booking window.

Stay During Off-Peak Seasons

If your schedule allows, plan trips during quieter times of the year. DVC resorts tend to require fewer points per night in the off-season, meaning your annual allotment can cover more days or even an upgraded room.

Mix and Match Your Stays

Consider combining shorter stays with occasional longer vacations. Use your points for quick getaways or bank and borrow points for a bigger, more elaborate trip every couple of years. This flexibility lets you experience a variety of resorts and room types.

Use Banking and Borrowing Wisely

As mentioned earlier, you can bank unused points from the current year or borrow from the upcoming year to put towards a single reservation. This can help you save up points for a dream trip or maximize your use if you know you’ll need more points for a special occasion.

Pick Accommodations Strategically

Standard view or studio villas generally require fewer points than preferred view or larger accommodations. If you’re looking to stretch your points further, opt for these options unless a special view or extra space is a must-have for your family.

Be Open to Different Resorts

While it’s tempting to stay at your Home resort every time, checking availability at other DVC resorts can reveal points-saving opportunities. For example, Disney’s Old Key West often offers excellent value for larger accommodations.

By making the most of booking windows, choosing the right time to travel, and leveraging both banking and borrowing options, you can maximize the value of your Disney Vacation Club membership—whether you want to visit every year or plan an unforgettable vacation every few years.

How Does Disney Vacation Club Use Year Work?

Disney Vacation Club points work by giving owners their annual allotment during their DVC Use Year. DVC Use Year actually refers to a month in the year, and there are only eight Use Years to consider: February, March, April, June, August, September, October, and December.

No Use Year is better than another. In fact, not all Disney Vacation Club resorts will offer every Use Year contract. It’s best to consider when you plan on vacationing with your family. Ideally, you will want to travel early in your Use Year. This is because if you cancel your reservation within 30 days of your check-in date, your points will be put into a holding account. They must be spent by the next Use Year, or they will expire and cannot be banked. The points in your holding account can only be used to make a reservation that’s no more than 60 days in advance. Use Year is also important to keep in mind for banking points. If you do plan on banking your points this year, they must be banked within the first eight months of your Use Year.

DVC Home Resorts to Choose From

Choosing your DVC Home Resort should be one of your most important decisions. One of the key factors of how Disney Vacation Club works is the flexibility to use your points on reservations at any of the fifteen properties within DVC’s portfolio. However, popular dates and accommodations sell out very quickly, making your Home resort priority access all the more important. Every DVC contract is attached to a Home resort, which is where your points are deeded and where you have priority access to make reservations before anyone else. While most Disney Vacation Club Resorts are near Walt Disney World in Orlando, there are also properties in California, Hawaii, Vero Beach, and Hilton Head! Here’s a list of all of the resorts so you can decide which Disney Vacation Club resorts might work best for you.

All DVC Resorts:

What to Expect from a DVC Suite or Villa

With a Disney Vacation Club membership, you’ll enjoy spacious accommodations, luxurious amenities, and more! Each stay is tailored to your family’s needs, with flexibility depending on where you want to stay, how many nights you’d like, the time of year you visit, and the type of room you choose.

DVC villas are ideal if you love the immersive Disney experience but also appreciate the comforts of home. Studio villas come equipped with kitchenettes featuring wet bars, refrigerators, toasters, and microwaves—making it easy to grab a quick breakfast before heading to the parks. If you need even more space, larger villas offer full kitchens with dishwashers, plus in-room washers and dryers—perfect for longer stays or larger families.

Most Immersive and Themed DVC Resorts

If your dream vacation includes waking up surrounded by unforgettable storytelling and themed environments, Disney Vacation Club does not disappoint. Two truly stand-out options for guests looking to be transported well beyond the everyday are Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas and the Wilderness Lodge Villas.

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas: Step into a world inspired by the heart of Africa. Whether you’re in Jambo House or Kidani Village, you’ll be surrounded by authentic African art, stunning architecture, and expansive savannas. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while watching giraffes, zebras, and over 30 species of African animals roam just beyond your balcony—a daily occurrence for many guests here. Every hallway and common space is thoughtfully decorated, making it easy to forget you’re just minutes from Walt Disney World’s most thrilling rides.
• Copper Creek and Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: For those who prefer the rustic charm of America’s great outdoors, the Wilderness Lodge Villas offer an immersive escape reminiscent of the grand lodges found in National Parks. Towering timber beams, stone fireplaces, and artifacts celebrating the spirit of the Pacific Northwest set the scene. The real showstopper? The waterfront Cascade Cabins, complete with private decks and hot tubs overlooking picturesque Bay Lake. It’s a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature—without sacrificing the magic of Disney.

No matter which resort you choose, these DVC options are much more than a place to rest your head—they are destinations in themselves, each offering unique adventures, themed dining, and amenities that bring the story to life.

Beach and Island Destinations: More Than Just Theme Parks

Dreaming of swaying palms or the lull of ocean waves? DVC members don’t have to choose between Disney magic and the serenity of the coast. Disney Vacation Club offers three sun-soaked options where you can dip your toes in the sand while still enjoying all the signature touches you’ve come to expect.

• Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa (Oahu, Hawaii): This tropical retreat blends the best of Walt Disney Imagineering with Hawaiian heritage, culture, and hospitality. From immersive storytelling to authentic island cuisine and plenty of family-friendly activities, Aulani brings a whole new dimension to “vacation mode”—it’s an absolute must for Disney fans and beachgoers alike.
• Vero Beach Resort (Vero Beach, Florida): Imagine winding down on Florida’s scenic Atlantic coast, enjoying direct beach access, poolside fun, and unique activities, all with the added benefit of Disney’s attention to detail and top-notch service.
• Hilton Head Island Resort (Hilton Head, South Carolina): Nestled among majestic pines and just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic shore, this laid-back Lowcountry getaway channels Southern charm with a side of Disney whimsy, offering both relaxation and “just right” adventures for every age.

These resorts allow members to trade Main Street parades for sunrise strolls by the sea—without missing out on the magic that makes every Disney vacation memorable.

Resorts With Easy Access to Shopping, Dining, and Golf

If your ideal Disney vacation involves more than just theme parks—think boutique shopping, world-class dining, and maybe even a few rounds on the greens—you’ll want to pay special attention to Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Both of these resorts offer a laid-back atmosphere and more affordable options, but what really sets them apart is their prime location near Disney Springs.

Guests at these resorts can hop over to Disney Springs with ease, enjoying quick access to a vibrant mix of shops, unique restaurants, and live entertainment. Plus, for golf enthusiasts, both Old Key West and Saratoga Springs are right next door to Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, making it simple to squeeze in a tee time between park visits or pool lounging. With convenience, comfort, and connection to some of Disney’s best amenities, these resorts are a top choice for guests who want more than just magical days at the parks.

Best DVC Resorts for Access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios

If being footsteps away from the excitement of EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios sounds like your idea of vacation magic, you’re in luck. A handful of DVC resorts place you right at the heart of the action, each with its own unique perks.

Beach Club Villas is a longtime favorite for EPCOT fans. Here, you’re just a short walk away from the International Gateway entrance—making it perfect for late-night strolls after enjoying a festival or fireworks. Beach Club Villas also boasts Stormalong Bay, often considered the crown jewel of Disney pools, complete with a sandy bottom and lazy river. Plus, you’ll find easy access to the amenities of both Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts.

Just down the path, BoardWalk Villas offers classic charm and a vibrant entertainment district, featuring restaurants, evening performers, and carnival-style fun right on Crescent Lake. Like Beach Club, BoardWalk is within walking (or boating) distance to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios—so park hopping could hardly be easier.

For those who value something a little more modern, Riviera Resort is the newest addition to the area. Inspired by the elegance of Europe, this resort captures the feeling of a Mediterranean escape. The Riviera is seamlessly connected to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios via the Disney Skyliner—a gondola system offering quick, scenic rides and beautiful aerial views along the way.

Whichever you choose, these resorts make it simple to maximize your park time while enjoying distinctive amenities and style.

Disneyland DVC Resorts

If Disneyland Resort is your dream destination, you have two fantastic DVC options in Anaheim:

• Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa – Known as the grande dame of Disneyland, this resort impresses with its rustic California craftsman-style architecture, a soaring lobby, and the rare perk of dedicated entrances to both Disney California Adventure Park and the Downtown Disney District. It’s a favorite among families looking for luxury and location in one package.
• The Villas at Disneyland Hotel – Here, you’ll find rooms themed to beloved Disney films like The Jungle Book, Fantasia, The Princess and the Frog, and Sleeping Beauty. Perfect for fans wanting to infuse their vacation with classic Disney magic and storytelling, these villas offer a unique blend of nostalgia and modern comfort.

Which Resorts Offer Monorail Access and Close Proximity to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT?

If quick access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot is at the top of your vacation wishlist, you’ll want to consider the resorts conveniently located along the Disney monorail loop. These include Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Staying at one of these DVC properties means you’re just a short monorail ride—or even a pleasant walk or relaxing boat ride—away from the front gates of Magic Kingdom, plus easy monorail connections to Epcot. After an evening of fireworks and fun, you can be back “home” in minutes, whether you prefer the sleek style of Bay Lake Tower, the tropical vibes at the Polynesian, or the elegance of the Grand Floridian.

How Far in Advance Can You Make Reservations at a DVC Resort?

Home resort owners can make reservations up to 11 months before check-in. So, if you are looking to make a reservation during high seasons like Christmas or spring break, you should plan to make your reservation in January.

If you are hoping to stay at a different DVC resort other than your Home resort, you have up to 7 months in advance to make reservations. It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to make reservations during highly popular weeks outside of your Home resort because rooms fill up so quickly. This is why you should carefully consider your Home resort if you plan to travel during the most popular seasons.

How Do Disney Vacation Club Expiration Dates Work?

Disney Vacation Club works by offering points, but it’s also important to keep in mind that all DVC contracts expire. Contrary to popular belief, DVC is not an RTU timeshare. It’s actually considered leasehold ownership. This is because Disney Vacation Club leases the land each resort is on from Disney Vacation Development, Inc. RTU timeshare is meant for timeshare buyers that do not live in the country where they own. Furthermore, most RTU contracts will have varying expirations, depending on when the owner purchased them.

Every DVC resort contract, however, has the same expiration date for every owner, no matter what. DVC contracts last normally up to 50 years from the time of opening.

DVC Resort	Contract Expiration
Vero Beach	1/31/2042
Hilton Head	1/31/2042
BoardWalk Villas	1/31/2042
Boulder Ridge at Wilderness Lodge	1/31/2042
Beach Club Villas	1/31/2042
Old Key West	1/31/2042 – or – 1/31/2057
Saratoga Springs Resort	1/31/2054
Animal Kingdom Villas	1/31/2057
Bay Lake Tower	1/31/2060
Grand Californian	1/31/2060
Aulani	1/31/2062
Grand Floridian	1/31/2064
Polynesian	1/31/2066
Copper Creek at Wilderness Lodge	1/31/2068
Riviera Resort	1/31/2070

Notice that Old Key West Resort has two different expiration dates. This is because Old Key West owners were given the option in 2007 to extend their contracts for 15 years. When you are browsing the resale market, you’ll find both expiration years floating around, and that’s because some owners did not choose to extend their contracts.

Remember, if you purchase Disney Vacation Club on the secondary market, your contract will still expire by the same date listed above. Even though the ownership is new to you, don’t forget that all DVC contracts expire within 50 years of the resort opening.

How Do Disney Vacation Club Member Benefits Work?

Of course, the resorts are the main draw of Disney Vacation Club, but there are other benefits for DVC members too. So, how do these DVC benefits work? When you buy 150 points directly from DVC, you get access to exclusive discounts on annual passes, dining, and shopping. You also get access to member-exclusive events like Moonlight Magic and DVC lounges with complimentary food and drinks.

What to Consider When Buying Points

Larger families will need to plan to have more points for larger accommodations with multiple bedrooms. If you plan to travel during high seasons, it will also cost more points since demand is so high. By looking at the DVC point charts for every resort, you can get a rough idea of how many points you’ll need every year, depending on the time of year and how much space you need. This changes yearly, but you can always buy DVC points resale for less.

Looking at point charts can also help you choose your Home resort, as some don’t offer as many multi-bedroom units or cost more in points. For example, the Riviera Resort has three-bedroom accommodations available, and it’s the newest DVC resort, which can make it cost more in points. Meanwhile, less-visited resorts tend to be cheaper overall. Fortunately, all DVC resorts have great amenities and accommodations, so there’s bound to be one that works best for you!

The Perks of Vacation Club Membership—and Adapting Over Time

One of the best aspects of joining a vacation club is the flexibility it gives families to customize their trips throughout the years. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach—your membership can grow and change right alongside your own family’s needs.

Many members initially purchase enough points to secure larger one-bedroom villas for annual vacations, allowing for ample space and privacy. As kids grow older or vacation habits shift, some families find that moving to smaller accommodations or traveling during less busy seasons lets them stretch their points further—sometimes even getting multiple trips out of what previously covered just one.

Plus, your points aren’t locked into a single property. Members have the opportunity to vacation at a variety of resorts, from classic spots like Disney’s BoardWalk Villas in Florida to sun-soaked destinations like Aulani in Hawai’i or the Grand Californian in California. You can redeem points for different room types or travel at different times of year, adjusting your experience to fit your family’s unique rhythm.

This ability to swap room sizes, destinations, and travel dates truly makes vacation club ownership a dynamic, adaptable option—perfect for families who want both consistency and flexibility in their travel plans.

Is Disney Vacation Club Worth It?

The first thing to remember when you buy any timeshare is that timeshares are not financial investments, and DVC works the same way. While the DVC resale market has seen prices increase and some owners have made a profit on their ownership, it should not be your end goal when you purchase a contract. The timeshare resale market can be volatile, and DVC can change its resale restrictions at any time.

DVC stands out from traditional timeshares by operating as a flexible, points-based program. Ultimately, this blend of flexibility and ownership means DVC can suit a wide range of vacation styles. However, your main goal should be memorable vacations, not financial gain. As with any timeshare, DVC works best for those who want to enjoy the perks and experiences, rather than expecting a return on investment.

Disney Vacation Club is worth it if you can make it work for your travel preferences and lifestyle. If you plan on using your DVC points every year and you love all things Disney, you’ll probably love DVC.

Some families may not find the product worthwhile anymore, and if this is you, you can choose to sell your DVC points. Or before you purchase, you can even take a look at DVC resales to find a great deal. Keep in mind that you will likely break even within a few years of using your ownership as opposed to booking a hotel reservation at a Disney resort every year.

How Much Does DVC Cost?

When weighing the decision to join Disney Vacation Club, it’s important to understand both the initial buy-in and the ongoing costs you’ll be responsible for down the road. Remember, the cost of Disney Vacation Club can differ between buying directly from DVC vs resale.

The upfront cost depends primarily on how many points you want to purchase in your membership. Contracts typically range from 100 to 1,000 points, and the price per point can vary based on the resort and whether you’re buying directly from Disney or from the resale market. For example, if you decide on a 150-point contract at one of Disney’s newest resorts, and the current price is around $225 per point, your initial purchase would total approximately $33,750. There are also extra expenses like closing costs, document preparation fees, maintenance fees, etc.

Factoring in both your initial investment and your ongoing dues gives you a clearer picture of what Disney Vacation Club ownership will mean for your budget in the long run.

How Do Maintenance Fees Differ Across DVC Resorts?

Just as every Disney Vacation Club resort has a unique theme and location, the annual maintenance fees you’ll pay can vary quite a bit depending on where you own. Maintenance fees—sometimes called annual dues—cover the upkeep of the property, property taxes, insurance, and contributions to reserve funds for future repairs.

For example, resorts like Disney’s Vero Beach and Hilton Head Island often have lower upfront per-point purchase prices, but their annual dues are typically higher compared to other properties. Factors like location, weather conditions (especially at beach or coastal resorts), and the age of the resort can all influence these yearly costs.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Beachfront or coastal resorts tend to have higher annual dues due to increased maintenance needs and insurance.
• Older resorts may see higher increases in fees as they require more frequent updates and repairs.
• All DVC resorts review and adjust their annual dues annually, so even newer properties will see small regular increases.

As you consider which DVC property fits your family best, don’t forget to factor in maintenance fees alongside the contract’s purchase price. It’s a key part of the total cost of ownership—and something you’ll want to budget for each year.

Finance Your DVC Purchase

Some families don’t think it’s worth it to spend so much all at once, which is why our friends at Vacation Club Loans offer financing for DVC, regardless of whether you are purchasing directly from Disney or resale. Vacation Club Loans offers fast loan approval with rates as low as 11.9 percent, no prepayment penalties, and no loan origination fees. In addition, they immediately approve 100 percent of all Disney Vacation Club credit applications!

Buying DVC Resale Vs. Direct from Disney

There are pros and cons of buying DVC resale, as well as buying directly from Disney. Namely, the savings you receive when you buy resale points. However, buying DVC resale vs. direct also comes with certain restrictions that all owners must be aware of.

As of January 2019, DVC resale owners have more restrictions when it comes to using their points on reservations outside of their Home resort. With the grand opening of the Riviera Resort, Disney no longer allows resale owners to spend their points at any of the original fifteen properties. For example, If you purchase a points contract from Animal Kingdom Lodge on the resale market now, you can make reservations using those points at any of the DVC properties except for the Disney Riviera Resort or any new resorts that open in the future. Furthermore, if you purchase Riviera resale points, you can only make reservations using them at the Riviera resort. You can stay up to date with DVC resale restrictions before purchasing to make sure you’re not missing out on any of the benefits you want to receive.

So, which is better? Ultimately, that’s up to you! If you want to save thousands of dollars, buying on the resale market is a great deal. Meanwhile, if you want total access to all Disney Vacation Club destinations, buying direct might be more your style. You can even purchase your points directly from DVC first and then use the resale market to add to your ownership without losing the benefits!

Browse DVC Resale Listings from Fidelity

Now that you know how Disney Vacation Club works, you might be wondering where you can go to save big on DVC timeshares. Well, you’re already in the right place! Fidelity Real Estate has an expansive online marketplace with plenty of DVC listings. As Disney Vacation Club’s Recommended Resale Brokerage since 2005, our licensed real estate agents are experts on the brand. You can browse by resort, point allotment, Use Year, and more. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, make sure to create an account on our website and create a saved search. This will ensure you get all our latest listings that match your preferences. Need assistance? Feel free to give us a call at 1 (800) 410-8326 or email us at [email protected]. Our licensed agents are always happy to help!

What if I Don’t Want My Disney Vacation Club Timeshare Anymore?

On the other hand, if for any reason you don’t want your Disney Vacation Club timeshare anymore, we can help you too! In fact, we’ve been helping DVC owners sell their timeshares for decades. So, if DVC doesn’t work for you anymore, our licensed agents are here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our agents will reach out to you about the next steps.