What would you do? Pay OOP or borrow?

[mrstomrice]

We decided to take a trip to Disney in August. We already have 1 booked for Christmas 2012. We are new to DVC and want to do the smart thing. I know that only we can make the final decision, but DH and I can't agree on what is best. Should we pay out of pocket and stay at a value resort for a good deal this year ($575 for the week at All Star Sports) or borrow our 2013 points and stay st SSR for the week? My feeling is that we should not pay out of pocket this year because if we do decide to go back in 2013 we can just pay OOP then. DH is reluctant to borrow our points. What would you do?

 

[Dean]

We decided to take a trip to Disney in August. We already have 1 booked for Christmas 2012. We are new to DVC and want to do the smart thing. I know that only we can make the final decision, but DH and I can't agree on what is best. Should we pay out of pocket and stay at a value resort for a good deal this year ($575 for the week at All Star Sports) or borrow our 2013 points and stay st SSR for the week? My feeling is that we should not pay out of pocket this year because if we do decide to go back in 2013 we can just pay OOP then. DH is reluctant to borrow our points. What would you do?

As a rule, I'd borrow the points and stay at a DVC resort. This is especially true since you are new and still learning/experiencing the system. However, you will likely want to see what specials they have for this time. You might find free dining or large discount that would change the best option. If you end up having less points than what you would actually like to use, you can always look for cash specials for a given trip and ultimately extend your points.

 

[Sandisw]

I'd borrow the points and go on your membership. As you say, you can always pay next year if you short on points.

 

[CarolMN]

I agree with you - borrow and worry about 2013 then. Since August is so hot and humid, you are almost certainly going to want to spend more time in your air conditioned room or in the pool. A value room and resort amenities just can't compare to the SSR 1 bedrooms and resort amenities.

OTOH, it may be the last time you will be willing to spend a week in a value room. DVC spoils you very quickly, especially if you book the 1 bedrooms. I book the 1 bedrooms for just my DH & me - a studio just seems too small and there is no washer/dryer, no jacuzzi tub and only one TV!

 

[rlduvall]

I'm no help - I'm in a perpetual state of borrowing and have been for 6 years.

 

[mrstomrice]

Thanks for all of the input! We booked a studio at SSR for the week and put a waitlist in for VWL for the week as well. SInce we are spending more time at the resort, it was an easy choice. Also, we can put the resort money towards our AP. Thanks again!

 

[Deb & Bill]

Darn, too late to respond. I was going to say, stay home in August. It's much too hot anyway. Use your points in 2013.

But you've borrowed them and can't put them back, so enjoy your stay.

 

[bnk1120]

You made a good choice! Next year if you need more points you can rent or transfer. We have done that the last two years!!

 

[HayGan]

I'm no help - I'm in a perpetual state of borrowing and have been for 6 years.

I'm right there with you. As much fun as I have had at Disney resorts, nothing beats my DVC. I have a hard time even thinking about staying somewhere else!

OP, I think you made the right choice. You can always book a room for another trip with cash or get a transfer if you don't have the points in your account.