Marriott Vacation Club members will soon have more flexibility in how they use their points. This summer, Marriott Vacations Worldwide plans to launch a new feature that will allow members of its Abound program to book stays directly at nearly any Marriott hotel worldwide using points.
This development marks an important step toward giving members greater options for using their vacation ownership benefits. Below, we break down the announcement, its implications, and what members should consider before using this new option.
Overview of the New Points Booking Option
Announcement Highlights
And this summer, we plan to launch the ability for our Marriott branded owners to seamlessly book directly into nearly any of Marriott’s 9,000-plus hotels around the world using their vacation ownership points.
John Geller, Marriott Vacations Worldwide CEODuring its Q1 2025 earnings call, Marriott Vacations Worldwide CEO John Geller revealed the upcoming feature. Under this new initiative, members of the Abound by Marriott Vacation Club program will have the ability to redeem their points directly for Marriott hotel stays.
What It Means for Members
This feature represents a significant opportunity to expand travel choices for Abound members. Instead of being tied solely to timeshare properties or navigating the Bonvoy conversion system, members will soon be able to access over 9,000 Marriott hotels worldwide with a streamlined points redemption process. However, important details, such as the exchange rate for hotel bookings, are still under wraps.
Current Points Redemption Options for Marriott Vacation Club
Using Abound Points for Bonvoy Points
Currently, Abound members have the option to exchange their points for Marriott Bonvoy points, which can then be used to book hotel stays. However, this process comes with limitations:
- Conversion Rates
Each Marriott Vacation Club point converts to 40 Bonvoy points, often viewed as a less favorable value compared to using points for timeshare stays. - Annual Limits
The number of points that can be converted is capped annually, with limits varying by membership level:- Chairman’s Club members can convert up to 75% of their points.
- Executive and Presidential members are limited to 65%.
- Owners and Select members are capped at 50%.
- Deadlines
Members must request conversions at least nine months before the end of their use year, which can restrict spontaneous travel planning.
Practical Challenges with Bonvoy Conversions
These restrictions have made the Bonvoy points option less attractive for some members. Additionally, the advanced planning and minimum point requirements for conversions have left many seeking alternative ways to maximize their points’ value.
Potential Improvements with the New Booking Option
While there are very few details released so far regarding how this new option will work, there are a few potential improvements that could be coming. Let’s take a closer look at how this new program could upgrade the existing hotel redemption options available to Marriott Vacation Club owners.
Eased Restrictions
One of the most anticipated benefits of the new initiative is the potential removal or relaxation of limits on the number of points members can apply toward hotel stays. This could result in greater flexibility for travelers booking last-minute trips or planning extended stays.
Improved Cost-to-Value Ratios
Another area that may see improvement is the point-to-hotel cost ratio. If the new system offers more favorable exchange rates than the current Bonvoy conversion method, members could find this option to be a more valuable use of their points.
Simplified Process
By allowing members to directly book hotel stays through the Marriott Vacation Club system, the new feature eliminates the need for conversions, making the booking process faster and more user-friendly.
Access to New Destinations
With over 9,000 Marriott hotels worldwide, the inclusion of this booking option allows members to explore destinations that might not be accessible through Marriott Vacation Club properties. This could open the door to unique experiences in urban centers, international locations, and beyond.
Factors to Consider Before Booking Hotels with Points
Comparing Costs and Value
It’s important for members to evaluate the overall value of booking hotel stays with points. Maintenance fees associated with Abound membership mean that each point carries a specific monetary cost. For example, in 2025, the estimated cost per point is around $0.815. Members should compare this cost to the cash price of the hotel stay to determine whether using points offers a worthwhile return on investment.
Evaluating Other Options
Members should also explore alternative uses for their points, such as booking high-demand weeks at Marriott Vacation Club timeshares. Renting out these reservations may yield cash that can then be used for hotel bookings, potentially offering a better value than direct redemption.
Key Variables Yet to Be Announced
The specific exchange rates and terms associated with the new feature will play a significant role in determining its appeal. Until Marriott Vacations Worldwide releases these details, members should proceed cautiously and evaluate how the new system aligns with their travel goals.
Closing Thoughts
The new direct booking feature for Abound by Marriott Vacation Club members is a promising development that has the potential to enhance the overall value and flexibility of the program. While many details remain to be clarified, like exchange rates and restrictions, this new feature ultimately means Marriott owners will have even more travel opportunities.
Stay tuned to the Premier Timeshare Resale blog for further updates as more information becomes available. With thoughtful planning, members can make the most of this new option and enrich their travel experiences.
