Reward reservation without enough points (yet!)
 

I couldn't see a thread on this from the master thread, but please feel free to merge if there is something existing.

Looking to redeem 70,000 MR points at a Cat. 7 property later this summer. Currently, I have ~63,500, so I'd need to get an additional 7,000 prior to the stay. Never done a redemption reservation with less points in my account then needed.

So is it possible to make a reservation on the web site with less points then needed, and then transfer in points closer to the time of stay? I'm not planning on having additional stays/points added prior to the trip, but can transfer in from UA or Chase. I just want to make sure that I will actually be staying before I make the transfer...its possible I may need to cancel, and it looks like the rate allows that (until 1 day prior, anyway). I also don't want MR to automatically purchase the points for me at time of reservation, as I'd prefer to transfer in from the partners.

Also, seems to me that it is probably better value to transfer Chase UR rather than UA (both at 1:1) - does this sound right? Any idea how long it takes for the transfer to fully complete?

Also, is there a way to transfer AA or DL miles into MR? Even if a lesser value than, say, Chase, I've got a few thousand of each hanging around and I rarely use either of those airlines/accounts, so wondering if that might make sense, or at least be an option.

Appreciate any guidance.

I've never done it online, but I've called in and made a reservation without having enough points. We went away in February, and after I made a reservation through Ritz Rewards, I called Chase and had the points transferred.

I don't believe you can transfer airline miles to hotel programs (unless you want to use points.com which does not offer an attractive rate). AA used to be able to transfer to Hilton, but I'm not sure if that's still the case.

Others may have other experiences of transferring, but I don't know of any outside of points.com.

Just make the reservation online. It will be fine. It will let you know you don't have enough yet and that you will need enough 7 days before reservation.

Yes, you can make a reservation w/o the necessary points, either online or via the 800#. You will need the points prior to the stay.

How long it takes for transfer of points from UA or Chase I have no idea. You also have the option of purchasing 7,000 points directly from Marriott for $87.50 ($12.50/1,000). The Marriott transfer usually takes place within an hour or so, although it says it can take up to 48 hours.

Cheers.