Question about last minute reservations

[lemon]

Contemplating buying a DVC property, and I have a lot of questions but one in particular is availability, I am not the greatest planner but I do live close to WDW. Do members have good luck calling a few days before to book at any of the resorts in Orlando? Obviously I would not be that picky when calling in a reservation so late but me and my wife were concerned as we are last minuters.....Thanks

 

[CraftyMouse]

It really depends on the time of year, but DVC properties do tend to be full most of the time. Even when it is possible, you will probably be limited to a resort choice or two, rather than having your pick of any property, and you might not get your first choice of room size.

Planning at least several months in advance is really the optimal use of the membership, and most members plan at least 7-11 months ahead of time.

 

[Deb & Bill]

It might be easier to get Fri and Sat nights, but those nights are going to cost you about double the points as the rest of the week.

 

[Caskbill]

You might take a look at our Resort Reservation Availability board to see how members have been reporting availability.

 

[dianeschlicht]

It will likely depend a bit on the size unit you are willing to stay in as well. A studio or 2 bedroom might be difficult most times, but a 1 bedroom will mostly likely be the most available. Don't ever plan on getting a GV or concierge late!

 

[CarolA]

I am a professionally late booker.

Rules to live by

1. Be flexible. You generally will NOT get BCV, BWV, VWL etc. You have a much better shot at SSR and OKW

2. Be flexible. Are you willing to "waste points"? I often find it's easier to get a one bedroom. Yes I only need a studio, but.... beggars can't be choosers LOL!

3. Weekends are actually easier then weekdays. Of course they cost more.

4. Realize you may fail. I have failed a few times. I just stay offsite. (I used to trade to a moderate, but now don't think they are worth the points plus trade fee so I spend my money offsite)

5. Realize that DVC has what you might consider "strange" busy season. Early December. for example.... I am thinking of trying to get a quick trip in. I figure that one is going to be next to impossible so probably will wind up offsite.

 

[BEASLYBOO]

I live 2 hours away from Orlando and with the schools giving extra days off we frequently book last minute for short trips. I've never had problems with late booking, however flexibility is very important. This October we booked the week before for a 3 day stay and even though I started w/ OKW, for my stay to be continious I ended up going to AKV which was great. As long as you approach it w/ several choice options it shouldn't be a problem. I consider it a Florida resident priviledge.

 

[yaawgmoth]

An example of a quick booking. We booked for Thanksgiving just yesterday. We are going to stay for 26-29 but had to stay at SSR. Not a problem as we were flexible.
There were only Studios available, just to let you know.

Good Luck

 

[Dean]

Contemplating buying a DVC property, and I have a lot of questions but one in particular is availability, I am not the greatest planner but I do live close to WDW. Do members have good luck calling a few days before to book at any of the resorts in Orlando? Obviously I would not be that picky when calling in a reservation so late but me and my wife were concerned as we are last minuters.....Thanks

IMO, one who is unlikely to plan ahead should not buy into a timeshare at all. There are too many risks and variables. Reservations are getting harder to come by unless you plan ahead as well.