Published by the Travel Club Navigator Group editorial team.
If you own a timeshare, your exchange network quietly decides where you can actually go. The two heavyweights — RCI and Interval International (II) — dominate the space, and which one you use often comes down to your home resort's affiliation. Here's how they truly compare.
What Is a Timeshare Exchange?
An exchange network lets you trade your home week or points for stays at thousands of other affiliated resorts worldwide. You pay an annual membership plus a per-transaction exchange fee. It's the mechanism that turns 'one week in one place' into 'the world.'
RCI: The Volume Leader
RCI (Resort Condominiums International), part of Travel + Leisure Co., is the larger of the two networks.
- Sheer size: The biggest network — roughly 4,300+ affiliated resorts across the globe.
- Two systems: Offers both Weeks and Points exchange programs for flexibility.
- Key affiliations: Closely tied to Wyndham / Club Wyndham and many mid-market brands.
- Best trait: Unmatched choice and global reach — great for flexible, adventurous travelers.
Interval International: The Quality Play
Interval International, part of Marriott Vacations Worldwide, is smaller but skews more upscale.
- Curated network: Around 3,200 resorts — fewer, but more consistent in quality.
- Premium affiliations: Strong ties to Marriott, Westin, Sheraton, and Hyatt Vacation properties.
- Getaways: Interval Getaways let you book extra trips at low cash rates without trading a week.
- Best trait: Higher average resort quality and a solid customer-service reputation.
Head-to-Head
The quick side-by-side:
| Feature | RCI | Interval International |
|---|---|---|
| Network Size | ~4,300+ resorts | ~3,200 resorts |
| Resort Style | Budget to premium | Skews upscale & luxury |
| Key Affiliations | Wyndham, Travel + Leisure Co. | Marriott, Westin, Hyatt, Sheraton |
| Exchange Model | Weeks & Points | Weeks-based + Getaways |
| Trade-off | More choice, more variable | Fewer resorts, higher consistency |
| Best For | Flexibility & global reach | Premium quality seekers |
The Verdict
Choose RCI if you prioritize choice, value, and global flexibility. Choose Interval International if you want higher, more consistent resort quality and premium brand affiliations. In reality, you often don't choose at all — your home resort's affiliation dictates your network. If you're still shopping for a timeshare, factor the exchange network into your decision from day one.
Pro tip: some owners maintain memberships in both networks to maximize where they can travel — just weigh the double membership fees against how often you'll actually use each.
Shopping for a timeshare?
See our honest reviews of the top 5 timeshares before you buy — exchange network and all.
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