Timeshares make great holiday destinations and with some strategic planning you can really maximise its benefits. Here’s some tips on how to get the best possible value out of your timeshare.

Tip #1: Invite family and friends on vacation
First, don’t keep your timeshare to yourself. The spacious layout of timeshare accommodations makes it possible to invite family and friends on holiday, and many will likely take you up on the offer since they don’t need to pay for accommodation.
Having others visit while you’re on holiday gives you time to connect without the normal obligations of home, and you can do things you normally wouldn’t do at home. The time together is priceless and can lead to many fond remembrances once you’re back home.
Of course, you don’t have to have family and friends visit the entire time you use the timeshare. If you still want some time to yourself or only with your immediate family, extend an invitation to others for only a portion of the time that you’re on vacation. The people you invite may even prefer going for a long weekend rather than a full week or one week instead of two.

Tip #2: Explore alternative destination options
Most timeshares have the flexibility (as with points) or access to exchange programmes that make it possible to holiday in different locations. Booking a different destination each year can be an inexpensive way to see lots of places. When you don’t have to pay for separate lodging each night, travel costs become much more affordable.
Sometimes, timeshare owners like the idea of traveling to different places but also want to return to their favorite spot where everything is familiar. Should you find yourself in this pickle, alternating destinations each year could be a viable solution to the dilemma. Go somewhere different every other year, and return to your favourite place on the years in between.

Tip #3: Make reservations far in advance
If your timeshare is not a fixed week model, make your reservations as far in advance as possible. The most in-demand destinations fill up quickly during peak seasons. How far in advance you can book depends on the type of timeshare you own. Find out when the booking calendar opens for you, and mark that time on your personal calendar. If you fail to make reservations in time, you run the risk of not getting the unit, place, or period you prefer.

Tip #4: Watch for bonus time deals
Occasionally, companies offer timeshare owners special bonus time deals. These are highly variable because they’re based on demand and availability, and they might be only offered as a last-minute deal. If you’re patient and have a flexible schedule, these bonus time deals can provide you with extra time at a resort for minimal additional cost.

(First published on magicalrealty.com/blog)