Making First Reservation

[mdsd8700]

We are currently under contract through resale for BLT. UY February, 100 points from 2010 and 100 points come 2/1/2011. We plan on going in June of 2011 so I will have 200 points. I will make the reservation for BLT after we have closed (approx. 2 months) so early-mid August. I am confused as to how I distinguish the points when making a reservation. Am using the 2010 points and borrowing the 2011 points? Since I have until 1/31/11 to use the 2010 points do I have to bank them before I can use them since I won't be taking the trip until June of next year? I hope that I am making sense.....please let me know if I appear to have things jumbled in my head and what the correct steps/procedure is. Thanks!

 

[jamstew]

We are currently under contract through resale for BLT. UY February, 100 points from 2010 and 100 points come 2/1/2011. We plan on going in June of 2011 so I will have 200 points. I will make the reservation for BLT after we have closed (approx. 2 months) so early-mid August. I am confused as to how I distinguish the points when making a reservation. Am using the 2010 points and borrowing the 2011 points? Since I have until 1/31/11 to use the 2010 points do I have to bank them before I can use them since I won't be taking the trip until June of next year? I hope that I am making sense.....please let me know if I appear to have things jumbled in my head and what the correct steps/procedure is. Thanks!

Yes, you will have to bank the 2010 points into your 2011 UY for a trip in June of 2011.

 

[Sandisw]

When figuring out what points can be used, the easiest thing, IMO, is to first figure out the UY your trip will take place.

Once you know that, its simple. A trip can be "paid" for using banked points from the previous UY, current UY points at time of travel, and borrowed points from the next UY.

So, with a June UY, a June 2011 reservation takes place in your June 2011 UY. You can used banked 2010 points, 2011 UY points, and borrowed 2012 points.

You can always call 11 months out at your home resort and 7 months at others. It is the time of travel and not the time you call that determines what points are used. You always have all your points. But, your UY month determines when they become "active, current UY" points.

When you call in August, you will have to bank the 2010 points first, and then make the reservation. It can all be done in one call. And, although MS should use the banked 2010 points first before using up the 2011 points, be sure to remind them that is what you want done.

Once the reservation is made, go on your member website and double check your account to be sure that is what they did.

Congratulations and good luck!

 

[mdsd8700]

Thanks so much for your replies. I thought the points would have to be banked first. Sandi, thanks for the step by step instructions that makes it easier for this newbie. I have read about making sure points are used correctly when talking with MS and then double checking on line, so I will be sure to do that. I am sure this will be second nature in time, but now I am still trying to learn the ropes. Thanks again.