Best Hotel Rewards Programs
Based on In-Depth Reviews
- 200+Hours of research
- 22+Sources used
- 11Companies vetted
- 6Features reviewed
- 10Top
Picks
- Consider your required spend before receiving points
- Some programs have restrictions, blackout dates, & weekend rates
- Look for straightforward ways to earn and redeem points
- Compare the earned points across different programs
How we analyzed the best Hotel Rewards Programs
Our list of the best Hotel Rewards Programs
- Additional Companies:
- Kimpton Karma Rewards
More insight into our methodology
Earned Points
Guests should consider how much they're required to spend before gaining enough points to receive a free night or receive other incentives at the hotel. Ideally, the value of the loyalty or rewards points should benefit you heir versatility, e.g. zero expiration date, ability to use over a variety of different properties, does not include black-out dates, etc. When comparison shopping, consider:
- Earned Points per Dollar
- Point Expiration
- Earning Limitations
- Elite Bonus
- Credit Card Bonus
Redeeming Points
Things to look out for when reading the fine print on how to redeem points include:
- Brand Exclusivity - Can you use your points with any brand in the hotel chain?
- Blackout Dates & Weekend Rates - Does the hotel enforce blackout dates or not take cheap weekend rates into account when tabulating point redemption?
- Reservations - Does the rewards system change whether reservations are made last-minute or in advance?
The best hotel rewards programs generally offer upgrades, elite status, earning points for-onsite expenses, access to promotions and/or free nights with low point requirements. Consumers should look for a loyalty program that has redeemable rewards in which they can enjoy instant gratification.
- Point per Free Night
- Brand Exclusions
- Money Spent
- Credit Card Bonus
Upgrades
Hotels should include a selection of upgrades in their rewards program. The privilege of redeemable or discounted room upgrade is one factor that guests should experience with their loyalty plan. Customers must also consider other upgrades that hotels offer before investing in their rewards program.
- Preferred Room
- Confirmed Upgrade Rewards
- Suites
Amenities
Hotels should allow their guests to experience first-class amenities and services for the duration of their stay. Customers should also be able to enjoy an extensive range of facilities and services that displays a quality design and attention to detail. Some amenities that consumers should look for are:
- Free Internet
- Free Breakfast
- Food/Beverage option
- Free Bottled Water
Reservations
A hotel’s reservation system should provide a convertible room rate in different currencies for international guests. Companies must also support known and trusted online payment methods that will allow their international travellers to pay online with ease. Guests must also consider the safety of a company’s reservation system and its process time.
- Guaranteed Availability
- Late Check-Out
Helpful information about Hotel Rewards Programs
Hotel rewards programs reward the loyalty of their frequent customers by offering perks and discounts. Each rewards program targets different preferred lodging styles, travel habits and goals. Where some hotels prioritize flexibility and earning points for free nights, others focus on membership-only privileges, such as free WiFi access or minibar credits.
Frequent travellers for business or pleasure can reap the benefits of hotel rewards programs without breaking the budget, but infrequent travellers can also obtain points by signing up for hotel rewards credit cards, and meeting some basic requirements. Even families can profit this way, by using the credit card for everyday purchases in order to gain points, as opposed to doing so through paid hotel stays.
When choosing a hotel rewards program, consider your reason for travelling. Business travellers are more likely to gain points through hotel stays, whereas leisure travellers do so through credit cards. Perhaps a combination of both is the best solution for you. It’s also important to compare the earned points per dollar across different programs, and whether the points ever expire.
Some hotel rewards programs also include many limitations to the usage of points, such as restricting the brands you can stay at within the hotel chain, incorporating blackout dates and different weekend rates, and change their rewards system if reservations are booked last minute. Getting the most out of your points requires planning, understanding the rules and stipulations, and finding lodging you can travel to easily.
Our Hotel Rewards Programs Review Summed Up
| Company Name | Why We Picked Them |
|---|---|
| Marriott Rewards Program | Instant redemptions and special rates |
| Hyatt Gold Passport Hotel Rewards Program | Points can be combined with cash for greater rewards |
| Hilton Honors Hotel Rewards Program | No blackout dates for awards bookings |
| Starwood Preferred Guest Hotel Rewards Program | Points can be converted to miles, plus gain access member-only performances, premium seats, and backstage tours |