Travel Hack: Vacation with Timeshares Without Buying One

bymilesawaydesignllc
-May 4, 2024

Dreaming of a luxurious vacation at a fraction of the cost? Forget the expensive hotels. Timeshares can be your secret weapon, unlocking amazing deals on luxury vacations. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to buy a timeshare to enjoy its benefits. Here’s how to leverage timeshares for incredible stays without any ownership headaches.

Timeshare Clubs and Vacation Programs:

Timeshare clubs and vacation programs offer access to a vast network of resorts around the world from different hotel companies. This opens doors to a wider variety of destinations and vacation styles. You can find days that match your interests and budget, often at significantly lower costs than traditional hotels.

Join the Club (Without Buying In):

Timeshare clubs and vacation programs offer package deals to try the timeshare lifestyle – this grants access to a massive network of resorts. Paying for a very inexpensive vacation is usually for about 4 days 3 nights and it unlock a world of vacation possibilities. You can find weeks that match your budget and travel style, from beach getaways to ski adventures.

You’re probably saying okay great, but how much does it cost and is it worth it? The latter I will let you answer. The destinations you’re offered by the companies are unique to you. You would have to check your status and see if those destination are worth it to you. Though there is a catch at the end you’ll want to understand. Prices for vacation stays range between $199 to $799 packages from 3 to 6 days. I believe that’s worth it for some of the vacations destinations I recieved.

When booking make sure to use a great travel rewards card like the Capital One Venture or Venture X Credit Card. The Venture card offers simple travel rewards with 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, while the Venture X card provides higher rewards rates and premium perks like airport lounge access for frequent travelers. Both cards cater to various travel needs and spending habits, making them attractive options for earning rewards on everyday purchases and enjoying travel benefits.

Embrace Flexibility:

The beauty of not being tied to a specific timeshare or company is flexibility. We utilize the IHG, Marriot, and Hilton Vacation programs on rotation. Each offers different destinations for you to travel to based on income and where you live. Open yourself up to new destinations you might not have thought of, or some that make the list. Venture off the beaten path and you’ll be surprised by the incredible deals you can find.

Enjoy the Space and Amenities of a Timeshare:

Unlike cramped hotel rooms, timeshares typically offer spacious units with full kitchens, laundry facilities, and multiple bedrooms. It’s perfect for families, longer stays, or groups traveling together. You’ll have the space to relax and unwind, feeling more like you’re at home than on vacation.

Now that you have your stay, you need a way to get there. Use CheapOair to find great flights deals!

There's a Catch ... :

Let’s be honest, there’s always a catch. Fortunately, this one is not so bad. You must be making over $100k a year to be considered to purchase the discounted rates and you must attend a 2 hour meeting. You visit the hotels grand vacations site and purchase the options available for you depending on your income and where you live. A few days after purchasing, a representative will call to plan the trip. You can give them a few dates to see if they have availability. NOTE: Booking around holidays there is usually an additional fee.

Our Experience:

We have now stayed at 3 different hotels in San Diego, CA, Las Vegas, NV and Cocoa beach, FL. Our next two are in Honolulu and Kaanapali, HI. We have rotated hotels between IHG, Marriott and Hilton.

The 2 hour mandatory meeting is not as bad as it sounds for what you’re paying. Though it is in the middle of one of the days on your stay you learn a little more about the timeshare and what it offers. By all means, if you want to purchase one and it works for you, you should. We kindly deny everytime and say “We’ll think about it”. NOTE: They are really good at keeping you there and try to get you to buy, just say no and walk away. It’s ok to do so.

The Takeaways:

By utilizing timeshare vacation programs, you can vacation like royalty without the hefty price tag of full ownership. We’re talking between $199 to $799 vacation packages ranging from 3 to 6 days. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the world through the world of timeshares, minus the commitment!