Best Timeshare Points Programs: Unlocking Unlimited Vacation Possibilities

The concept of timeshare ownership has been around since the 1970s, offering vacationers the opportunity to own a share of a property for a specific period every year. Over time, the industry has evolved, and the once traditional fixed-week timeshare model has given way to the more flexible timeshare points programs.

Timeshare points act as a type of vacation currency, allowing owners to enjoy vacations at multiple destinations and accommodations within a network of timeshare resorts. Owners and members have the flexibility to choose travel dates based on the amount of points they own. In this article, we will explore the best timeshare points programs that offer unparalleled flexibility, value, and experiences.

Most Recognized Timeshare Points Programs

Marriott Vacation Club

Marriott Vacation Club is a global leader in the timeshare industry, with over 60 luxurious resorts worldwide within the MVC program. Their points-based program, known as Marriott Vacation Club Destinations, allows owners to use points for stays at a variety of Marriott timeshare properties, even including Ritz-Carlton hotels, all while enjoying the impeccable service and amenities Marriott is known for.

Pros:

• Wide range of accommodation layouts, from studios to three-bedroom villas
• Ability to use Marriott points to stay in your choice of 60+ Marriott Vacation Club resorts.
• Access to Marriott Bonvoy hotel loyalty program, offering additional benefits and rewards
• Option to exchange use of points through the Interval International exchange platform.

Cons:

• Upfront costs (which can be offset by discounted timeshare resales) and annual maintenance fees
• Limited availability during peak seasons

Club Wyndham

Wyndham Destinations, with over 220 resorts across the globe, offers Club Wyndham, one of the largest points-based timeshare programs. Club Wyndham provides its members with the flexibility to choose from a vast selection of Wyndham timeshare properties, with suites ranging from cozy studios to spacious multi-bedroom suites. Wyndham's partnership with RCI, the largest timeshare exchange program, also allows members to access additional properties worldwide.

Pros:

• Generous selection of resorts around the world
• Spacious accommodations with a good variety of floorplans
• Flexible online booking system
• Affiliation with Wyndham Rewards loyalty program
• Access to RCI exchange network, offering choices from over 4,000 additional resorts
• Reasonable annual maintenance fees

Cons:

• Points can only be banked for one year, limiting long-term planning
• Limited availability for high-demand destinations during peak seasons (which is where RCI can help)

Hilton Grand Vacations Club

The Hilton Grand Vacations Club offers its members a network of luxurious Hilton timeshare properties located in some of the world's most sought-after destinations, including Hawaii, New York City, and Las Vegas. While points are technically deeded to a “home” resort, members can use their points to book stays at Hilton Grand Vacations resorts as well as other Hilton-branded properties through the Hilton Honors loyalty program.

Pros:

• High-quality Hilton resorts in popular vacation destinations
• Access to Hilton Honors loyalty program, providing additional benefits and rewards such as using points for cruises and travel products.
• Points can be turned into Hilton Honors points for use at over 7,2000 hotels worldwide
• Ability to access the RCI exchange network

Cons:

• High upfront costs through Hilton and annual maintenance fees
• Limited availability during peak seasons

Disney Vacation Club