So, we've rented points... what now?

[Mom2Evie]

I located a great DISer here and I've rented enough points from her to stay a week in April at AKV. I've already used the reservation number to book CRT at 180 days out, so I know its in the system. The Owner's been helpful & responsive, so I'm not in the least worried about the transaction. We've gone to WDW (staying on property) about 6 times in the last 3 4 years, so I think I've got the whole Disney Vacation thing down to an art. This DVC thing is all scary & new.


Do we check into DVC just like anyone else at the main front desk?
Can I charge things to my room just like I can when staying at a non-DVC resort?
Since my DD & I have APs, we won't need tickets. Can I buy tickets for just my husband and have those tied to the room or does that only work for "packages"?
Can we use Magical Express when renting? If so, is anything different with making those reservations?
Are there things I'll need to pack for a DVC trip that I wouldn't pack if I were staying at a moderate?
What else do I need to know to be a DVC guest?

 

[CraftyMouse]

We've gone to WDW (staying on property) about 6 times in the last 3 4 years, so I think I've got the whole Disney Vacation thing down to an art. This DVC thing is all scary & new.
It sounds like you are the perfect candidates for DVC. Yes, it's scary at first....there's so much to learn! You'll be a pro in no time...don't worry.

Do we check into DVC just like anyone else at the main front desk?
You sure do!

Can I charge things to my room just like I can when staying at a non-DVC resort?
Yup!

Since my DD & I have APs, we won't need tickets. Can I buy tickets for just my husband and have those tied to the room or does that only work for "packages"?
I believe you can have his pass put on his room key. We always get APs so I'm not sure.

Can we use Magical Express when renting? If so, is anything different with making those reservations?
Sure. You'll just have to have the member make the reservation for you as it is done through Member Services.

Are there things I'll need to pack for a DVC trip that I wouldn't pack if I were staying at a moderate?
If you're staying in a 1BR or larger you may want to bring laundry detergent with you, since you'll have a washer/dryer in your room. (There are free washers/dryers for those in studios so you may still want to bring it if that's what you have reserved.) We always bring our Mickey waffle iron with us to, since we like to have breakfast in the room. Other than that sort of thing you should be all set!

What else do I need to know to be a DVC guest?
Really nothing more than you would need to know being a WDW resort guest. Staying at a DVC property is no different than staying at any other WDW resort, except for the size/amenities of the accommodations. You'll still get all the perks of staying on site (free park parking, package delivery, Extra Magic Hourse, etc.)

Have a great time!

 

[crisi]

I'd bring coffee and filters (you get a starter pack of coffee). We bring some light groceries and laundry detergent. Basic cleaning supplies are in the room. Remember you won't get daily mousekeeping - including not getting new towels every day, the trash taken out or your beds made (you'll get new towels on day four along with the trash taken out). A studio will have a queen bed and a full pullout (the pullouts are pretty comfortable, but something to be aware of if you are expecting to walk into two queens).

 

[Mom2Evie]

Thanks to both of you for your responses. What size filters will I need? I brought my one cup brewer & Gevalia coffee when we went down in September. I don't function well without my morning cup of GOOD Joe.
Do some of the studios have 2 beds or do they all have bed & pull out couch?

 

[castleri]

Thanks to both of you for your responses. What size filters will I need? I brought my one cup brewer & Gevalia coffee when we went down in September. I don't function well without my morning cup of GOOD Joe.
Do some of the studios have 2 beds or do they all have bed & pull out couch?

12 cup basket type filters for the coffee maker.

OKW studios have two queen beds - the rest have the bed and pull out combo.

 

[gatorfreud]

If you are getting the DDP, make sure that your owner adds it for you - and double and triple check it. Ours was supposedly added and I think she even checked it, but at check in it wasn't on there so we couldn't get it. It was no big deal as I had thought about cancelling it anyway since we had some ADR changes... but if you're counting on it, just make sure it's really there (as best you can!).

Kim