The Secret to Saving Money While Staying in a Premium Disney Resort

Walt Disney World offers a magical escape with 32 Resorts catering to Guests of all ages and preferences. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations or deluxe luxury, there’s a Resort for everyone.

But imagine strolling into one of Disney’s most luxurious deluxe resorts, with upscale amenities and unparalleled convenience—without breaking the bank and paying Disney’s advertised rates. There is a way to stay at Disney’s premium resorts for a fraction of the cost. With these little-known secrets, you can unlock magical savings that make your dream vacation attainable and even more enjoyable.

In this guide, I will share how you can indulge in Disney’s Deluxe accommodations while keeping your budget happy. Ready to discover the key to turning your trip into an unforgettable experience?

Choosing the Right Disney Resort

When planning your Disney vacation, many factors influence your choice of Resort. These include budget, length of stay, and the purpose of your visit. You might visit for a runDisney event, EPCOT’s vibrant festivals, or a Disney Cruise Line adventure. No matter your reason, Disney Resorts is designed to enhance your experience.

With accommodations ranging from Value to Deluxe categories, you’ll find options for every budget and travel style. As you start crossing Disney Resorts off your list, you might save the priciest Deluxe Resorts for last.

Deluxe Resorts offer spacious rooms, premium amenities, and prime locations, making them a popular choice for those seeking an elevated Disney experience.

What Makes Deluxe Resorts Special?

Deluxe Resorts are known for their larger Guest rooms, many of which include balconies with stunning views. They also offer a wide range of recreational activities for Guests who want to enjoy downtime outside the Parks. Plus, they feature exclusive access to convenient transportation options like the Disney Skyliner and monorail.

Another reason for the higher price tag is that many Deluxe Resorts include Disney Vacation Club (DVC) accommodations. These timeshare-style options provide a unique way to experience Disney luxury without paying full price.

What Is Disney Vacation Club?

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is Disney’s version of a timeshare. Members purchase points that can be used to book vacations at specific Disney Resorts, known as their Home Resorts. Memberships can include anywhere from 100 to 50,000 points per year. Members can also save or borrow points across a three-year cycle.

The following DVC Resorts are located at Walt Disney World (in order of opening):

• Old Key West
• BoardWalk Villas (BoardWalk Inn)
• Boulder Ridge Villas (Wilderness Lodge)
• Beach Club Villas (Disney’s Beach Club)
• Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• Jambo House (Animal Kingdom Lodge)
• Kidani Village (Animal Kingdom Lodge)
• Bay Lake Tower (Disney’s Contemporary Resort)
• Villas at the Grand Floridian
• Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins (Wilderness Lodge)
• Riviera Resort
• Cabins at Fort Wilderness
• Polynesian – Island Tower (Disney’s Polynesian Resort)

Outside Walt Disney World, DVC Resorts include Vero Beach on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, Aulani Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii on the Island of O’ahu, plus 2 properties in Disneyland – The Villas at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and The Villas at Disneyland Hotel.

Renting DVC Points: A Secret to Deluxe Stays

Did you know you can rent DVC points to stay at Deluxe Resorts without the steep price tag? Renting points from DVC Members is a popular way to experience luxury accommodations at a fraction of the cost. If you consider membership, this also gives you a taste of the DVC experience.

DVC rentals offer a variety of room types, from Studios to 3-bedroom villas. These rooms often include amenities like kitchenettes, full kitchens, washers/dryers, and whirlpool tubs—comfort and convenience not typically found in standard Disney Resort rooms. Unique accommodations like Treehouses, Bungalows, and Cabins add charm to the experience.

How to Rent DVC Points

Renting DVC points is a straightforward process. Services like David’s Vacation Club Rentals can help you find availability at your desired Resort. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose Your Resort: Use a rental service to check availability for your travel dates. Compare prices for different Resorts, as costs vary depending on demand and season.
2. Submit Your Request: After selecting a Resort, submit a booking request. You may need to provide a second choice as a backup.
3. Book Early: DVC Members with your chosen Resort as their Home Resort can book 11 months in advance. If it’s not their Home Resort, bookings open 7 months before your stay.
4. Confirm Your Reservation: After matching your request with a DVC Member, you’ll receive a confirmation and payment instructions. Then, start counting down to your Disney adventure!

Our DVC Rental Experience

We recently rented points to stay at Disney’s Riviera Resort and BoardWalk Villas during peak season. The experience was seamless and provided a luxurious touch to our vacation.

At Riviera Resort, our Studio included a kitchenette, a spacious bedroom/living area, and a modern bathroom. The elegance of the Resort’s décor and the convenience of the Disney Skyliner made it a standout choice.

At BoardWalk Villas, we stayed in a one-bedroom Villa with a fully equipped kitchen, dining and living areas, and a balcony overlooking the Luna Park Pool. The villa’s spacious layout and premium amenities, like a whirlpool tub and king-size bed, elevated our stay.

The proximity to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios was another highlight.

Why Consider Renting DVC Points?

Renting DVC points lets you experience Deluxe Resorts like Animal Kingdom Lodge, Grand Floridian, Beach Club, and Wilderness Lodge at a more affordable price. It’s an excellent option for families seeking extra space or couples looking for a romantic getaway. Plus, it offers a glimpse into the benefits of DVC membership.

Whether you dream of staying in a Treehouse Villa at Saratoga Springs or a Bungalow at the Polynesian, renting DVC points opens up a world of possibilities.

Still unsure? Use this cost calculator to determine how much it will cost for your preferred travel dates! Now start planning your next magical Disney vacation and enjoy the luxury you’ve always dreamed of.