How To Accommodate a 5th Person?

Smart Ways to Accommodate a 5th Person in a One-Bedroom DVC Villa

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) offers an array of accommodations designed to provide comfort and flexibility for families of various sizes. However, if you're planning a trip with a group of five and considering a one-bedroom villa, you might be wondering how to comfortably fit everyone. While one-bedroom villas are generally designed for up to four guests, there are smart strategies to accommodate a fifth person without compromising on comfort.

Understanding DVC Villa Configurations

One-bedroom villas in DVC resorts typically feature a master bedroom with a king-sized bed and a living area with a queen-sized sleeper sofa. This setup is ideal for four guests. However, accommodating a fifth person requires some creativity and understanding of the villa's layout and amenities.

Utilizing Available Space

• Living Room Area: The living room often serves as the primary space for additional sleeping arrangements. While the sleeper sofa accommodates two guests, some villas may offer an additional pull-down bed or a sleeper chair, which can be suitable for a child or smaller adult. Check the specific villa's amenities when booking.
• Portable Bedding: Consider bringing a portable sleeping solution, such as an inflatable mattress or a foldable cot. Ensure there's enough floor space to set it up comfortably without obstructing pathways.

Booking Strategies for Optimal Comfort

When planning your stay, consider these booking strategies to ensure everyone has a comfortable sleeping arrangement:

• Home Resort Advantage: If your home resort is one of the DVC properties with larger one-bedroom villas, use your 11-month booking window to secure a reservation. Resorts like Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas offer one-bedroom villas that can accommodate five guests.
• Check Resort Details: Before booking, verify the specific villa's capacity and amenities. Some resorts have villas with unique layouts that naturally accommodate more guests.

Practical Tips for a Comfortable Stay

To ensure a pleasant experience for all guests, consider these practical tips:

• Organize Personal Items: With more people sharing the space, it's essential to keep personal items organized. Utilize closet space, drawers, and luggage racks to minimize clutter.
• Plan Bathroom Schedules: One-bedroom villas typically have one bathroom. Coordinate shower and bathroom schedules to avoid morning rushes and ensure everyone has ample time to get ready.
• Utilize Resort Amenities: Take advantage of the resort's amenities to extend your living space. Spend time at the pool, lounges, or recreational areas to give everyone room to relax outside the villa.

Understanding DVC Resale Considerations

If you're considering purchasing a DVC membership through resale, it's crucial to understand how it might affect your booking options and stay experience:

• Right of First Refusal (ROFR): Disney retains the right to purchase resale contracts before they are sold to a new buyer. This process can affect the timeline of your purchase, typically taking 30-60 days.
• Resale Restrictions: Be aware that resale contracts come with certain restrictions, such as the inability to use points for Disney Collection, Adventure, or Cruise Line perks. However, you can still enjoy the full range of DVC resort accommodations.
• Annual Dues: Keep in mind that annual dues vary by resort and are subject to periodic increases. Factor these costs into your budget when considering a resale purchase.

By understanding the layout and amenities of one-bedroom DVC villas, employing strategic booking techniques, and considering practical tips, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all five guests. Whether you're a current DVC member or exploring the resale market, these insights will help you make informed decisions for your Disney vacation.