The Costco Rule


Step 3 · Reserve with confidence

Use the Costco Rule When Making Your Points Reservations

When an amazing reservation appears, do not let overthinking make the decision for you The Costco Rule is simple: reserve it now, then decide whether it really works for your family before the applicable cancellation deadline.

Why Costco?

We have all seen something at Costco that looked great—but it was not on the list. Later, after deciding we really did want it, we went back and it was gone. Our family rule became: if you see something you might want, buy it. If you decide you do not want it, return it. But if you wait, there is a good chance you will not be able to get it—ever.

The Costco Rule for Club Points

Availability does not wait for a perfect plan

Owners often lose an opportunity while working through every “Can I?” and “Should I?” scenario. If an unusual availability appears at a resort you may want to visit, reserve it first—then work out whether it fits.
“Make the reservation, then figure out if you can make it work.”

Use the cancellation window wisely

For eligible Club Points reservations, the current MVC terms generally allow a cancellation without penalty up to 60 days before arrival. That flexibility is one of the best benefits too many owners do not use.

1 See it

You spot a rare availability or a destination that makes you pause and think, “Maybe.”

2. Reserve it

Secure the opportunity while it is available instead of waiting for every detail to be perfect.

3. Decide before the deadline

Work through the schedule and logistics, then keep it—or cancel by the applicable deadline if it does not fit.

Always confirm your current reservation and cancellation terms in your Owner account before booking or cancelling. Rules may vary by reservation type and can change.

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas—an example of the kind of special availability worth acting on quickly.

A real example

A Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas opportunity

Last year, I searched for a Caribbean trip for our daughter and her family. We were hoping for summer or fall—a busy travel window. Then I saw availability at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas in December, the week before Christmas.It was not convenient. It was not on our list. It was not when we expected to travel. But I reserved it anyway, then began working through whether it could fit our family.As we looked at the property, we got excited—and we made it work.
3,675 Destination PointsSeven nights in a two-bedroom villa at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. If I had waited until every detail was settled before reserving it, that availability likely would have been gone.

Reserve now Decide thoughtfully

When something special appears, do not wait to figure out whether it will work. Reserve it, review your options, and make a final decision before the cancellation deadline. Follow the Costco Rule—it really can help you MAX your opportunities.
A great reservation is not a commitment to travel. It is an opportunity you have preserved long enough to make the right decision.

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This article is an independent planning perspective from Maxing Marriott, not Marriott Vacation Club policy, legal, tax, or financial advice. Current program terms, availability, reservation rules, and deadlines in your Owner account control.