Revolutionize Your Travel: Top Hotel Rewards Programs That Deliver Big

Luxury Hotel Pool — hanmon from Getty Images

Written By

Will Tracy

When planning a hotel stay, what tops your list? Price, location, or the perks offered? If you aren’t leveraging hotel loyalty programs, you’re missing out on complimentary upgrades, breakfasts, exclusive lounge access, and even free nights. The key question is: Which hotel rewards program suits your travel style?

We’ve analyzed nine of the world’s leading hotel loyalty programs to help you decide:

Marriott Bonvoy
Hilton Honors
World of Hyatt
Wyndham Rewards
IHG One Rewards
Accor Live Limitless
Choice Privileges
Best Western Rewards
Radisson Rewards

Here’s a deep dive into each program to help you make the most of your travels.

Luxury Hotel Bedroom — raisbeckfoto from Getty Images Signature

Table of Contents

Marriott Bonvoy

With over 8,800 properties across 141 countries, Marriott Bonvoy dominates as a global giant. Highlights include the “fifth-night-free” perk for consecutive reward bookings, saving you points on luxurious stays. Marriott members also enjoy point transfers to 39 airline partners, including exclusive carriers like Alaska Airlines.

The program offers five elite status tiers with benefits like room upgrades, lounge access, and Suite Night Awards. You can earn Marriott points through cobranded credit cards or by transferring from Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards.

Best for: Travelers seeking global coverage, luxury options, and the ability to convert points to airline miles.

Hilton Honors

Hilton operates 7,800 properties in 126 countries, offering flexibility and convenience. Members with at least Silver status, which can be achieved through a Hilton credit card, enjoy benefits like a free fifth night on award stays. Hilton also partners with American Express Membership Rewards for easy point transfers.

Best for: Travelers who value easy point accumulation, frequent five-night stays, or extended visits in varied destinations.

World of Hyatt

Hyatt’s loyalty program shines with its award chart and affordable redemption rates. Luxury properties max out at 45,000 points per night, significantly less than other brands. While Hyatt’s footprint includes 1,300 properties in 70 countries, its presence in rural areas remains limited.

Cobranded credit cards and point transfers from Chase Ultimate Rewards and Bilt Rewards make earning points manageable. The program’s top-tier Globalist status offers standout perks like suite upgrades, free breakfast, and waived fees.

Best for: Travelers focused on luxury stays in major cities or destinations with all-inclusive options.

Wyndham Rewards

With over 9,000 hotels worldwide, Wyndham stands out for its presence in smaller towns and off-the-beaten-path locations. Budget-conscious travelers can redeem points at vacation rentals like Vacasa, starting at 15,000 points per night.

Wyndham rewards points can also be earned through Capital One or Citi credit card transfers.

Best for: Road trippers, small-town explorers, and budget travelers seeking vacation rental options.

IHG One Rewards

IHG revamped its loyalty program in 2022, making it more competitive. The brand includes luxury options like Six Senses resorts, which can be booked with points. Unique benefits like a free fourth night on consecutive award stays add value.

Elite members earn milestone rewards, such as suite upgrades and lounge access. Points can be transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards or Bilt Rewards, offering multiple earning avenues.

Best for: Travelers looking for a mix of luxury and accessibility, especially in diverse global destinations.

food on tray above pool — MosayMay from Getty Images

Accor Live Limitless (ALL)

Accor boasts a strong presence in Europe and Asia, with over 50 brands offering upscale and luxury options. Points redeem at a straightforward rate: 1,000 points equal €20 off your bill.

Although the program lacks a U.S.-based credit card, Capital One and Citi allow limited point transfers.

Best for: Travelers visiting Europe or Asia who prefer straightforward redemptions and high-end properties.

Choice Privileges

Choice excels in Scandinavia and small-town America, offering value and frequent promotional rates. With over 7,400 properties worldwide, it integrates Radisson Rewards Americas into its network.

Citi ThankYou Rewards points transfer at a favorable 1:2 ratio, doubling your redemption power.

Best for: Budget travelers, road warriors, and those venturing into remote areas or Scandinavia.

Best Western Rewards

With 4,000 properties worldwide, Best Western provides a middle-ground option. It stands out for its easy status match program, allowing members to achieve elite status without extensive stays.

Best for: Travelers loyal to Best Western or those seeking a simple, no-frills loyalty program.

Radisson Rewards

Radisson focuses on properties outside the Americas, with a portfolio still tied to its legacy program. However, U.S.-based travelers may find it challenging to earn points due to limited credit card options.

Best for: International travelers frequenting Radisson properties outside the Americas.

The Bottom Line

Hotel loyalty programs can elevate your travel experience with exclusive perks and significant savings. Signing up is free, so join multiple programs to keep your options open and maximize your rewards.

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