Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is exciting. However, one of the biggest decisions you will make is how to book your resort stay.

Should you book directly through Disney? Or should you consider renting DVC points through a Disney Vacation Club member?

Both options offer clear benefits. At the same time, each comes with trade-offs. Let’s break it down so you can choose what fits your travel style best.

 What Is Renting DVC Points?

Renting DVC points gives you the opportunity to stay at deluxe Disney resorts by using points from a Disney Vacation Club member instead of paying Disney’s standard cash rates.

In many cases, DVC members are unable to use all of their points in a given year. Rather than letting those points go to waste, they choose to rent them out to help offset their annual dues. Because of this, guests can enjoy the same deluxe villas—often with more space and amenities—for a fraction of the price of booking directly through Disney.

Pros of Renting DVC Points

 1. Major Cost Savings

First and most importantly, price is the biggest advantage.

In many cases, renting DVC points can save you 30% to 75% compared to booking directly through Disney.

Even better, when booking through The Timeshare Store, Inc.®, pricing can sometimes drop below our standard $20 per point—occasionally as low as $14 per point. Therefore, the savings can be substantial compared to booking directly with Disney.

 2. Access to Deluxe Resorts for Less

With DVC rentals, you can stay the top-tier Deluxe resorts like:

• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Or over a dozen other DVC resort locations.

Normally, these resorts come with premium price tags. However, renting points makes them far more affordable.

3. Larger Rooms and More Space

In addition, DVC villas offer more room /space than standard hotel rooms.

You can choose from:

• Deluxe Studios, which are typically larger rooms than the hotel accommodations.
• One-bedroom villas
• Two- and three-bedroom villas

Any accommodation larger than a Deluxe Studio includes full kitchens, living areas, and even washers and dryers, which is perfect for families or longer stays.

4. Better Value for Longer Stays

If you are planning a longer trip, renting DVC points becomes even more valuable. Over several nights, the savings can really add up.

Cons of Renting DVC Points

1. Limited Flexibility

Unlike Disney bookings, most DVC rentals are non-refundable and cannot be easily changed.

Because of this, your travel dates and resort choice should be solid before booking. Travel insurance is available, but it does come at an additional cost.

2. Upfront Payment

Typically, DVC rentals require full payment upfront (or shortly after booking). Therefore, it is less flexible than Disney’s deposit-based system.

3. Limited Housekeeping

Housekeeping is also different.

When staying on points through the Disney Vacation Club:

• No daily cleaning for short stays
• Trash & towel service on Day 4 (for longer stays)
• Full cleaning on Day 8

While this works well for many guests, it is not the same as hotel-style service.

 4. Availability Can Be Competitive

Finally, popular resorts and room types can book quickly—especially at 7 to 11 months out. Because of this, planning ahead is essential.

Booking Directly with Disney

Now let’s compare that to booking directly through Disney.

Pros of Booking Direct

 1. More Flexibility

Disney offers more flexible cancellation and modification policies. Therefore, this is ideal if your plans might change.

2. Promotions and Packages

In addition, Disney frequently offers:

• Room discounts
• Ticket packages
• Dining promotions

These deals can add value, especially for shorter stays.

3. Simple Booking Process

Booking directly is straightforward. You do not need to coordinate with a third party, which makes the process easy and familiar.

 4. Daily Housekeeping

You will also enjoy full hotel service, including daily cleaning and fresh towels.

Cons of Booking Direct

 1. Higher Cost

This is the biggest drawback.

Deluxe resorts booked directly through Disney can cost significantly more—often double the price of renting DVC points.

Example:
A Spring Break night at Disney’s Beach Club Villas

• The Timeshare Store, Inc.® DVC Rental: ~$560
• Disney Direct: ~$925

2. Less Space for the Price

Standard hotel rooms are typically smaller. As a result, families may feel more cramped compared to DVC villas.

 3. Fewer “Luxury for Less” Opportunities

Even with discounts, it is rare to match the value of renting DVC points for deluxe accommodations.

Which Option Is Best?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

If your goal is to save money and enjoy deluxe accommodations, renting DVC points through The Timeshare Store, Inc.® is often the better value.

On the other hand, if you prefer flexibility and hotel-style service, booking directly through Disney may be the right choice.

Either way, the magic is the same—you are simply choosing how to experience it.

If You Need Help Deciding?

If you have questions about renting DVC points, available resorts, or pricing, our team is happy to help.

 Reach out anytime—we would love to help you plan the perfect Disney vacation.

Jessica is one of our most experienced and dedicated rental agents at The Timeshare Store, Inc.®. She has been with our team for more than 13 years and has helped thousands of families create unforgettable Disney vacations. Her deep knowledge of Disney Vacation Club resorts, strong attention to detail, and genuine care for every guest make her a trusted resource for both first-time renters and longtime Members. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a dream family vacation, Jessica is here to make the entire rental process smooth, simple, and magical.