question about making points stretch...

[Deb & Bill]

We just got back from 7 nights at SSR in a studio - two nights on AP rate (about $214/night) and five on points (60 points). Then we had weather problems for the rest of our vacation so we added on three nights at BCV in a one bedroom (Fri, Sat, Sun) for 150 points. This was supposed to be a budget stay so we could use those points next year.

I guess the points are just supposed to be used.

 

[DebbieB]

members can get 25% off on say a Saturday night to complete your 7 night stay???? (6 night points, last night pay?)

I do this for my OKW trip in May. Last month I did Saturday night with the 25% discount and then Sunday to Thursday nights on points. Cost $330 with tax (1 bedroom), saved me 48 points. So about $6.80 a point. I think that's close to the amortized cost of buying additional points plus annual dues. If you book through DVC, you are pretty much guaranteed to keep the same room (unless there is a restriction, like BWV boardwalk view or BCV dedicated 2 bedrooms w/2 queens).

 

[F&WKing]

We used one of the discount codes to stay at the regular Beach Club on Saturday night, then we moved to DVC for the next 6. We got a beautiful room overlookinig the Beach Club courtyard and we also had a view of the Stormalong Bay slide. It was very nice, we saved money, but we really missed having the kitchen! We had friends who also flew down the same day, but later, and they stayed in an airport hotel on Saturday night and they were happy with that decision. We are going to try to accumulate more points for next year so we don't have to move at all... packing, then unpacking, then packing, then unpacking just seemed like too much work for us!

 

[ColoradoBelle1]

I think the BEST use of points:
1. Travel during the value seasons.
2. Stay in a studio if you are just a couple or have one child.
3. Fly in on Saturday (usually lessor airfare and late arrival) and stay in a cheaper hotel for that night. Arise early, drop off bags at DVC and visit the parks...so for Sat night all you need is a comfy bed.
4. Use the Sun-Friday cheap points and then Friday night late after watching WIshes and saying good by, crash once again at the cheap place before your Sat flight home OR use Friday night cash discount at your DVC resort.

Or if you are lucky...have friends in Tampa like me and go and visit them on the weekends!!!!!