For those exploring the benefits of Disney Vacation Club membership, understanding the nuances of home resort priority can be crucial. This aspect of membership plays a significant role in how and when you can book your accommodations at Disney’s Deluxe resorts. In this article, we’ll delve into the concept of home resort priority, its benefits, and factors prospective members should consider.
Understanding Home Resort Priority
Home resort priority is a key feature for DVC members. When you purchase a DVC contract, you are allotted vacation points that can be used to book stays at DVC resorts. Reservations at your designated home resort can be made 11 months in advance, providing a distinct advantage over other resorts where booking opens at seven months. This priority system ensures that members have the first opportunity to secure accommodations at their home resort well ahead of the general booking window.
| Resort | 11 Mo | 7 Mo | 5 Mo | 3 Mo | 1 Mo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas-Jambo House | 6.8 | 4.6 | 1.7 | 0.8 | 0.5 |
| Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas-Kidani Village | 7.0 | 6.3 | 3.6 | 1.8 | 1.1 |
| Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas, Ko olina, Hawaii | 7.0 | 6.3 | 3.1 | 2.0 | 1.7 |
| Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort | 7.0 | 5.4 | 2.1 | 0.9 | 0.6 |
| Disney’s Beach Club Villas | 7.0 | 4.1 | 0.5 | 0.2 | 0.3 |
| Disney’s Boardwalk Villas | 6.9 | 4.2 | 1.1 | 0.6 | 0.4 |
| Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge | 7.0 | 5.3 | 2.6 | 1.6 | 1.0 |
| Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge | 7.0 | 4.3 | 2.2 | 1.3 | 0.8 |
| The Villas at Disneyland Hotel | 6.9 | 5.5 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
| The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa | 7.0 | 4.6 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 0.1 |
| The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel & Spa | 6.9 | 4.9 | 1.7 | 0.7 | 0.4 |
| Disney’s Hilton Head Resort | 7.0 | 6.7 | 3.1 | 2.5 | 1.9 |
| Disney’s Old Key West Resort | 7.0 | 6.3 | 4.2 | 2.8 | 1.9 |
| Disney’s Polynesian Resort & Bungalows | 7.0 | 5.8 | 2.1 | 0.9 | 0.7 |
| Disney’s Riviera Resort | 7.0 | 5.1 | 2.0 | 1.0 | 0.4 |
| Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa | 7.0 | 6.8 | 5.5 | 4.1 | 2.7 |
| Disney’s Vero Beach Resort | 7.0 | 6.9 | 4.3 | 2.8 | 1.8 |
| Average Accommodation | 7.0 | 5.8 | 2.6 | 2.0 | 1.4 |
The availability index above monitors historical vacancies, offering insights into booking trends. The index numbers indicate the number of days open for reservation in any given week. A “7” signifies full availability for the entire week, while a “2” indicates only two days in succession were available. As the reservation date approaches, the number of available days typically decreases.
For members wanting to book non-home resorts, they can begin to do so 7 months in advance, whereas those booking at their home resort have the advantage of reserving up to 11 months in advance.
Benefits of Home Resort Priority
The primary benefit of home resort priority is the increased likelihood of securing a reservation at your preferred resort, particularly for popular dates or unique accommodations. By planning early and utilizing the 11-month booking window, members can almost guarantee availability at their home resort.
This can be especially advantageous during peak travel seasons or for special events at Disney parks. Additionally, having a secured reservation allows members to enjoy peace of mind, knowing their accommodations are set well in advance.
Considerations for Prospective Members
When deciding on a home resort, prospective DVC members should weigh several factors. First, consider whether you’ll be able to plan vacations 11 months ahead, as this impacts the utility of home resort priority. If planning far in advance is feasible, securing a contract at a resort you frequently enjoy visiting can be beneficial.
Alternatively, if staying on a budget is more important, focusing on the economic considerations of a contract (such as initial purchase price, annual dues per point, and years left on the contract) rather than location might be more appropriate. Some members prefer to book their home resort initially and then modify their reservation at the seven-month window if other resorts become available. This strategy provides both security and flexibility.
Conclusion
Home resort priority is an essential consideration for DVC members, influencing booking strategies and travel plans. It offers significant advantages for those who can plan vacations well in advance, ensuring access to desired accommodations. However, individual preferences and travel habits will ultimately guide the decision on how important this priority is. By understanding and leveraging home resort priority, DVC members can maximize their membership benefits and enjoy magical Disney vacations tailored to their needs.
For more updates on the latest developments at Walt Disney World, stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest articles delivered to your inbox.
Stay At Deluxe Resorts For Less
If you’d like to view confirmed reservations for rent at Disney’s Deluxe resorts, you can experience Disney’s most luxurious resorts for less, even without being a DVC member! If you’re interested in becoming a member, and joining the DVC family, you can save thousands by shopping from our current DVC resale listings.
DVC Deluxe Resorts
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
