How to Book RCI Resorts Peak Season (10+ Months in Advance)
If you’re trying to book RCI resorts during peak season, you’ve probably noticed how quickly inventory disappears — especially for top all-inclusive spots in the Caribbean or family-friendly resorts near Disney. As someone who has personally booked stays like the Hard Rock Punta Cana nearly a year in advance, I’ve learned a few insider strategies to help you plan ahead, maximize your RCI points, and lock in unforgettable luxury vacations — even during the most competitive travel months.
Why You Need to Plan 10+ Months Ahead
Peak travel season (like summer, holidays, and spring break) means high demand for the most sought-after RCI properties. Many resorts release inventory 12 to 13 months in advance, and by 10 months out, the best weeks are often claimed. Waiting too long could mean settling for a second-tier resort or traveling on inconvenient dates.
My Real Experience Booking Ahead with RCI
In my own travel journey, I managed to book top resorts like Hard Rock Punta Cana and Cana Brava All Inclusive Resort in Brazil using RCI points well ahead of time. These properties were in high demand, but because I planned over 10 months in advance, I got amazing deals that would have cost double or more on open hotel booking platforms.
At Hard Rock Punta Cana, I used just 7 RCI Points per week (from my converted Bourbon Atibaia program), paying far less than the $4,500 that would be charged on third-party sites.
Why Availability Can Still Be Tricky
Even if you’re early, you may find little to no availability. That doesn’t always mean the resorts are fully booked. Sometimes, the inventory hasn’t been released yet. RCI depends on when partner resorts upload their availability. That’s why checking back regularly is key.
Insider Tip: Use the RCI Call Center
Here’s a powerful but underused hack: Call RCI directly after searching the site. Their agents sometimes have visibility into promotions or resort availability that doesn’t show on the website. In one case, I found a deal through an RCI rep that saved me over $300 for the same resort I was viewing online.
Best Months to Reserve for Top Destinations
Here are the ideal timeframes to reserve popular RCI locations:
| Destination | Best Months to Reserve | Ideal Travel Window |
|---|---|---|
| Caribbean (DR, Jamaica) | Aug – Oct (prior year) | June to August |
| Mexico (Riviera Maya) | Sep – Nov (prior year) | Dec to April |
| South America (Brazil) | Oct – Dec (prior year) | January to March |
| Greece & Mediterranean | Oct – Jan (prior year) | May to September |
Note: Disney resorts and Greece typically require booking 12+ months in advance due to extremely limited availability.
Key Strategies to Lock In Your RCI Dream Resort
1. Know Your Points Value
If you’re using a points-based program (like I did via Bourbon Atibaia), know how many RCI points each of your weeks is worth. In my case, 30,000 Bourbon points = 16 RCI Points, enough for up to 2 luxury weeks a year.
2. Use Your Points Smartly
Focus on resorts that offer great value at 7 to 10 RCI Points per week. High-end Caribbean properties often fall into this range if booked early.
3. Book Midweek
RCI’s availability sometimes refreshes midweek. Try booking or calling RCI on Tuesdays or Wednesdays to catch new inventory.
4. Set Alerts and Be Flexible
Some platforms allow you to monitor availability changes or cancelations. Flexibility in dates or location (say, Punta Cana vs. Riviera Maya) can help secure great deals.
5. Call RCI After You Search
Once you’ve done your homework online, always call the RCI support line. Ask about availability, unpublished deals, and any incentives.
FAQ
What if I don’t see any availability, even 10 months out?
It might mean the resort hasn’t released inventory yet. Try checking weekly or calling RCI support to confirm expected release dates.
Can I waitlist a resort through RCI?
Yes, but it’s limited and not guaranteed. Your best strategy is to book what’s available and switch later if something better appears.
Final Thoughts
If you want to guarantee that picture-perfect beachfront resort or family-friendly all-inclusive during high season, early planning is non-negotiable. Booking more than 10 months ahead has allowed me to save thousands and stay in luxury resorts that would otherwise be out of reach.
Make it part of your yearly routine: decide where to go next summer before this summer even begins. The earlier you start, the more luxury you can afford with your points.
✅ Quick Booking Checklist
- Choose your destination and ideal travel window
- Check your RCI points balance and value
- Search availability 12-10 months in advance
- Call RCI support to confirm options or hidden deals
- Finalize and pay your exchange + resort fees
- Lock in flights using points or low-fare tools
- Add to calendar: when to start planning next year
Don’t miss our post on RCI Exchange Fees 2025: Full Breakdown and How to Avoid Overpaying — stay tuned and sign up for our newsletter!
