Best credit cards for hotels and travel

Compare the best hotel credit cards of 2022

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Best co-branded hotel credit card overall/Hilton

Best overall co-branded

Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.

APR

18.74% to 27.74% variable

• Respectable card features to accumulate free nights quickly
• Complimentary Hilton Diamond status (enrollment required)
• Free hotel stays
• Generous airline perks (enrollment required)

• The high annual fee may not be worth it for less frequent travelers
• Hilton points are worth less than the average rewards program point

While the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has a high annual fee ($450), its generous suite of benefits makes it the best and most valuable hotel credit card on our list. Cardholders get automatic Hilton Honors Diamond status and all the perks that come with it (enrollment required), as well as a free weekend night award, a $250 Hilton Resort statement credit, Priority Pass™ Select airport lounge membership (enrollment required), and more.

Savvy traveler's tip: If the $450 annual fee that comes with the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express is outside of your budget, consider a no-annual-fee travel credit card instead.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root ShortcodeIcon--margin-bottom\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeIcon--content\"\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E If the $450 annual fee that comes with the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express is outside of your budget, consider a \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"10 Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards of 2022\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/best-credit-cards-travel-no-annual-fee\"\u003Eno-annual-fee travel credit card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E instead.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best general travel hotel credit card overall

General travel

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Sign Up Bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel

APR

19.99% - 26.99% (Variable)

• Flat earning structure means you get good value no matter what
• Can use miles with any airline or hotel
• Relax with complimentary Priority Pass airport lounge access
• Breeze through airport security with Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

• High annual fee may only be worth it for some travelers
• $300 travel credit only good through the Capital One portal

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is our top choice for earning rewards on hotel stays due to its lucrative earning rate and sign-up bonus. You can rack up 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Points can be used to book travel (including hotels) through the Capital One Travel portal, yet you can also transfer rewards to Capital One's airline and hotel partners.

Savvy traveler's tip: For consumers looking to earn hotel points and luxury rewards, consider a premium credit card.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E For consumers looking to earn hotel points and luxury rewards, consider a \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Best Premium Credit Cards of 2022\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/best-premium-credit-cards\"\u003Epremium credit card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Co-branded hotel credit cards

Co-branded hotel credit cards are most valuable for consumers who regularly stay with the same hotel chain and can take advantage of hotel-specific perks, like elite status, room upgrades, free nights and more.

Best hotel credit card with no annual fee

No annual fee

Hilton Honors American Express Card

Welcome Offer

80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership.

APR

19.49%-28.49% Variable

For rates and fees of Hilton Honors American Express Card, please click here

• Put more money in your pocket without paying an annual fee
• A low spending requirement makes the welcome bonus more attainable
• Silver Hilton elite status can get you upgrades and perks (enrollment required)
• Take advantage of valuable bonus categories, including dining and U.S. supermarkets

• Hilton points are worth less than the average rewards program point
• Can't use Hilton points to stay at other hotel chains

The Hilton Honors American Express Card doesn't charge an annual fee, and this makes it a good choice for infrequent travelers. The card offers an especially generous welcome offer for a $95-annual-fee card as well as a great rate on paid Hilton stays and other spending. Other benefits include automatic Hilton Honors Silver elite status (enrollment required) and no foreign transaction fees.

Savvy traveler's tip: No-annual-fee credit cards are great for travelers who want to earn points at specific hotel chains, but who don't travel enough to warrant paying an annual fee.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root ShortcodeIcon--margin-bottom\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeIcon--content\"\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E No-annual-fee credit cards are great for travelers who want to earn points at specific hotel chains, but who don't travel enough to warrant paying an annual fee.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best hotel credit card for free nights

Free nights

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership.

APR

18.74 to 27.74% variable

• Take advantage of excellent bonus categories
• Complimentary Gold elite status gives access to room upgrades and perks (enrollment required)
• Spend to earn top-tier Diamond status for even more benefits (enrollment required)

• Hilton points can't be used to stay at other hotel chains
• Hilton points are worth less than the average rewards program point

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is a great choice for frequent travelers who mostly want to earn free hotel nights each year. This card comes with an exceptional earning rate for Hilton hotel stays and a range of everyday spending categories. Moreover, its generous welcome offer can be worth up to several free nights right off the bat. The card also comes with automatic Hilton Honors Gold status and the ability to earn Hilton Honors Diamond status for spending $40,000 on the card within a calendar year (enrollment required).

Savvy traveler's tip: Hilton has more than 6,000 properties worldwide and owns a variety of other hotel chains, so the points and perks you earn with this card have an incredibly far reach.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root ShortcodeIcon--margin-bottom\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeIcon--content\"\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Hilton Honors Rewards Program: Fast Track to Elite Status\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/hilton-hhonors-rewards-program\"\u003EHilton\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E has more than 6,000 properties worldwide and owns a variety of other hotel chains, so the points and perks you earn with this card have an incredibly far reach.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best hotel credit card for small business

Small business

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $5,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card in the first 3 Months of Card Membership. Plus you can earn a Free Night Reward after you spend $10,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 12/21/22.

APR

19.49% - 28.49% Variable

• Use the weekend night awards for free hotel stays
• Complimentary Gold elite status gives access to room upgrades and perks (enrollment required)
• Spend to earn top-tier Diamond status for even more benefits (enrollment required)
• Complimentary Priority Pass airport lounge access (enrollment required)

• Hilton points are worth less than the average rewards program point
• Hilton points can't be used for other hotel stays

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is our top pick for small business owners for several reasons, including its lucrative welcome offer and excellent rewards rate. Cardholders also get complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status with the opportunity to elevate to Diamond status after spending $40,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year (enrollment required). Benefits like 10 Priority Pass airport lounge visits per year, no foreign transaction fees, and the ability to earn up to two free weekend night awards for spending on the card also help it stand out.

Savvy traveler's tip: You'll get the most bang for your buck with this card when you consistently stay at Hilton hotels.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root ShortcodeIcon--margin-bottom\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeIcon--content\"\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E You'll get the most bang for your buck with this card when you consistently stay at Hilton hotels.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best hotel credit card for Hotels.com

Hotels.com

Hotels.com® Rewards Visa® Credit Card

Sign Up Bonus

Limited Time Offer! Get 3 reward nights worth $375 total (max $125 per night)* with qualifying purchases. Get 2 reward nights worth $250 total (max $125 per night)*, when you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. Plus, get another reward night worth $125 when you spend $4,000 in total purchases within the first 6 months. *Excludes taxes and fees. If a night costs less than $125, you won’t get the difference.

APR

17.99% to 25.99% variable APR

• With no annual fee, you can keep more cash in your pocket
• Use the free night certificates at any eligible hotel
• Complimentary Silver elite status can get you hotel upgrades

• Lack of bonus spending categories limits your earning power
• Complicated rewards structure limits your redemption options

The Hotels.com® Rewards Visa® Credit Card can be a great deal for people who aren't loyal to a specific hotel brand and don't mind booking stays through the Hotels.com website. This card doesn't charge an annual fee, and cardholders get the chance to earn "stamps" that are good for reward nights up to a certain amount at more than 500,000 properties including big name hotels, vacation villas and more. This card's sign-up bonus can also be worth several free nights right off the bat.

Savvy traveler's tip: If you're looking to earn free nights, use this hotel card to make all your travel bookings through Hotels.com.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root ShortcodeIcon--margin-bottom\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeIcon--content\"\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E If you're looking to earn free nights, use this \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black ShortcodeLink--active\" title=\"14 Best Hotel Credit Cards to Earn Hotel Perks\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/best-hotel-credit-cards\"\u003Ehotel card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E to make all your travel bookings through Hotels.com.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best hotel credit card for Marriott

Marriott

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 3 months.

APR

19.49%-28.49% Variable

For rates and fees of Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, please click here

• Free hotel stays
• Complimentary Priority Pass airport lounge access (enrollment required)
• Free night award each year
• Valuable dining credits

• High annual fee will only be worth it for some travelers
• Earning Marriott Bonvoy points limits your available hotel options to Marriott brands
• Marriott points are worth less than the average rewards program point

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is an excellent choice for frequent travelers and dedicated Marriott loyalists who want the star treatment that comes with a luxury hotel credit card. The more you travel, the more value you’ll get out of the airport lounge access benefit and other benefits. Depending on your travel patterns, you may be able to make back the high annual fee many times over.

Savvy traveler's tip: Marriott offers properties all over the world and owns numerous global hotel brands as well. Use your Marriott Bonvoy rewards to earn free nights at hotels everywhere.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root ShortcodeIcon--margin-bottom\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeIcon--content\"\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E Marriott offers properties all over the world and owns numerous global hotel brands as well. Use your \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program: Fast Track to Elite Status\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/marriott-bonvoy-rewards-program\"\u003EMarriott Bonvoy\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E rewards to earn free nights at hotels everywhere.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best hotel credit card for Hyatt

Hyatt

World of Hyatt Credit Card

Sign Up Bonus

Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points - Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.

APR

18.99% - 25.99% Variable

• Hyatt points are valuable compared to other hotel brands (worth around 1.7 cents per point on average)
• Free hotel stays
• Complimentary Discoverist elite status can help score upgrades and perks
• Qualify for higher level elite status through spending on the card

• Limited redemption options besides staying at Hyatt hotels
• Hyatt's hotel network is smaller than that of other major chains

The World of Hyatt Credit Card is valuable for Hyatt loyalists for a few reasons, including its generous earning rate and the fact you get automatic Hyatt Discoverist status for a reasonable $95 annual fee. The World of Hyatt program is one of the best hotel rewards programs since points are worth more than other hotel loyalty points (approximately 1.7 cents each) based on our recent valuations.

Savvy traveler's tip: Hyatt owns numerous hotel chains that have properties all over the world. Use your World of Hyatt points to book free nights in a number of global destinations.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root ShortcodeIcon--margin-bottom\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeIcon--content\"\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E Hyatt owns numerous hotel chains that have properties all over the world. Use your \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"World of Hyatt Rewards Program Guide: Highly Valuable for All Travelers\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/hyatt-gold-passport\"\u003EWorld of Hyatt\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E points to book free nights in a number of global destinations.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best hotel credit card sign-up bonus

Sign-up bonus

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Sign Up Bonus

Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card!

APR

18.99% - 25.99% Variable

• Multiple free night certificates can make it easy to plan an amazing trip
• Complimentary Silver Elite status gives you benefits and hotel upgrades
• Spend on the card to get Elite Night credits towards status

• Earning Marriott Bonvoy points limits your available hotel options to Marriott brands
• Marriott points are worth less than the average rewards program point

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card is one of the best Marriott credit cards for frequent travelers loyal to the Marriott Bonvoy program. With a lucrative welcome offer, it’s great for those who want to leverage their everyday spending to land the biggest rewards. The card is linked to a brand with an extensive portfolio of over 7,000 properties, giving you a large number of options to use that welcome offer.

Savvy traveler's tip: Credit cards with strong sign-up bonuses are great for kickstarting your points earning at hotels that can earn you free nights.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeIcon--root ShortcodeIcon--margin-bottom\"\u003E\n \u003Cspan class=\"ShortcodeIcon--icon ShortcodeIcon--large ShortcodeIcon--black ValuePenguinIcon--hotel-cart\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeIcon--content\"\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESavvy traveler's tip:\u003C\/strong\u003E Credit cards with strong \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"15 Best Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/best-credit-card-sign-up-bonus\"\u003Esign-up bonuses\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E are great for kickstarting your points earning at hotels that can earn you free nights.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Best hotel credit card for IHG

Best category name

IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card

Sign Up Bonus

Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

APR

18.99% - 25.99% Variable

• 4th night free on award stays is useful for longer trips
• Complimentary Platinum elite status for perks and upgrades
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit for faster airport security transit
• Free hotel stay each year

• IHG points have a low value (around half a cent on average)
• Can't use IHG points to stay at other hotel chains

The IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card is best for loyal IHG hotel travelers who want to maximize rewards on paid stays while enjoying some basic benefits. Cardholders earn up to 26 points per $1 spent on IHG hotel spending. You also get one free award night each year on your card anniversary, automatic Platinum elite status in the IHG Rewards program and more.

Savvy traveler's tip: IHG owns a vast number of hotel brands with properties spanning the globe. You can use your IHG rewards points to earn free nights at destinations around the world.

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Best hotel credit card for Best Western

Best Western

Best Western Rewards MasterCard Credit Card

Sign Up Bonus

40,000 points when you spend $1,000 in the first 3 billing cycles after the account is opened

• Use the generous sign-up bonus for free hotel stays
• Platinum elite status for extra hotel perks and upgrades
• Since your points don't expire, you have more time to use them

• Poor earning rates for anything other than Best Western stays
• Can't use Best Western points to stay at other hotel chains

For travelers who regularly stay at Best Western hotels, the Best Western Rewards MasterCard Credit Card can offer significant value with its high rewards rate and top hotel perks. For a $0 annual fee, cardholders can enjoy automatic Gold status, early check-in, late checkout and more.

On top of these lucrative benefits, cardmembers can also earn up to three free nights in bonus points: 40,000 points when you spend $1,000 in the first 3 billing cycles after the account is opened. 20,000 points when you spend $5,000 every 12 billing cycles. The extra 20,000 points is relatively easy to hit over 12 months, so this is a sweet deal for a card that doesn't charge an annual fee.

Savvy traveler's tip: As a $0-annual-fee card, the Best Western Rewards MasterCard Credit Card has a lot to offer. We recommend taking advantage of this card's numerous benefits if you regularly stay with Best Western.

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Best hotel credit card for Wyndham

Wyndham

Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus® Card

Sign Up Bonus

30,000 bonus points, enough for up to 4 free nights after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days.

APR

18.74%, 22.99% or 27.99% variable

• Take advantage of discounts on both paid and award stays
• Using Wyndham points for Vacasa vacation rentals can be great value
• Platinum elite status for upgrades, perks and benefits
• Using points for either "go free®" or "go fast®" stays gives you more options

• Can't use Wyndham points to stay at other hotel chains

The Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus® Card is our pick for the best hotel credit card for Wyndham because of its fantastic sign-up bonus and excellent hotel perks. Cardholders will automatically be granted Wyndham Rewards Platinum member level, which offers benefits like car rental upgrades, early check-in and more. You'll also enjoy 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year after paying the renewal fee, and you can earn 30,000 bonus points, enough for up to 4 free nights after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days.. All this and more for a moderate $75 annual fee.

Savvy traveler's tip: If you're willing to pay a moderately low annual fee and you frequently stay at Wyndham properties, you should definitely consider the Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus® Card which offers a multitude of valuable benefits.

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General travel rewards credit cards for hotels

While not co-branded to a specific hotel chain, general travel rewards credit cards can be great for consumers who aren't particularly brand loyal and prefer to stay at a variety of properties. These cards can come with perks like elite status for multiple hotel programs, travel and hotel credits, airport lounge access and more.

Best hotel card for elite status with Hilton and Marriott

Hilton and Marriott elite status

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earns American Express Membership rewards

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here

• Complimentary Priority Pass airport lounge access (enrollment required)
• Valuable travel credits, including up to $200 hotel credit
• Speed through airport security with Global Entry or TSA PreCheck (enrollment required)
• Elite status with Marriott and Hilton gives you multiple options (enrollment required)

• One of the highest annual fees of any card
• It can be hard to use all the statement credit options

The Platinum Card® from American Express is a flexible travel card that's perfect for frequent travelers who stay in a lot of different hotels. It comes with both Hilton Gold and Marriott Gold elite status (enrollment required). It also lets you earn American Express Membership Rewards points that can be used to book hotel stays, flights, rental cars and more. Amex points also transfer directly to an array of frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs, including Choice Privileges, Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy.

Savvy traveler's tip: If you can afford the high annual fee, The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the most lucrative travel rewards cards on the market. Be sure to utilize your elite status with both Hilton and Marriott (enrollment required).

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Best hotel credit card for flexible rewards

Flexible rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Sign Up Bonus

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

APR

18.99% - 25.99% Variable

• Chase Ultimate Rewards® are among the most flexible rewards points
• $50 annual hotel credit can save additional money each year
• Access to 14 airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Can redeem travel with any hotel or airline

• The Chase 5/24 rule can reduce your approval odds

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best choice for those who want to earn points any way they please. Chase Ultimate Rewards® points can be used for a range of flexible options including airfare, hotel stays and other travel through Chase, gift cards and statement credits. Cardholders can also transfer their points to a range of travel partners, including airlines as well as IHG Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, and World of Hyatt. When it comes to hotel-specific benefits, travelers receive an annual $50 Chase Ultimate Rewards® hotel statement credit to put toward a trip.

Savvy traveler's tip: Be sure to use the points earned with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card to book your hotel stays through Chase Ultimate Rewards® for the greatest value.

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Best hotel credit card with a travel credit

Travel credit

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Sign Up Bonus

Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®

APR

19.99% - 26.99% Variable

• Chase Ultimate Rewards® are among the most flexible rewards points
• Access to 14 airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit speeds up airport security
• Complimentary Priority Pass with airport lounge access
• $300 travel credit is broadly defined and automatic

• Many travelers priced out due to the large annual fee

While the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card has the same flexible rewards program of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card with quite a few luxury perks added in the mix. In exchange for a $550 annual fee (which is mostly covered by the card's $300 flexible travel credit) you get Priority Pass airport lounge access. Cardholders also get a slightly higher rewards rate on travel, making the card a preferable choice for heavy travelers.

Savvy traveler's tip: Use your Chase Ultimate Rewards® points to earn free nights at hotel properties all over the world without being locked into one specific brand.

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Best hotel credit card for flat-rate rewards

Flat rate rewards

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Sign Up Bonus

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel

APR

18.99% - 26.99% (Variable)

• Earning structure ensures good value no matter where you spend
• Earn bonus miles on hotel purchases through Capital One travel
• Can use rewards with any airline or hotel
• Access to over 15 travel transfer partners adds increased flexibility
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit speeds up airport security

• No hotel-specific perks and benefits

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is worth considering if you want a simple rewards structure and the ability to redeem miles in more than one way. This card earns 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 5 Miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 5 Miles per dollar when you book on Turo, the world’s largest car sharing marketplace, through May 16, 2023. Miles can be used for travel through Capital One, transfers to Capital One airline and hotel partners, and more.

Savvy traveler's tip: Use your Capital One rewards to book hotel stays at Capital One travel partners Hilton, Marriott and Choice Privileges properties.

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Best hotel credit card for students

Students

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Pros

• Earn 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
• Refundable security deposit starting at $200

Cons

• High purchase APR
• May not receive hotel elite status benefits when booking through Capital One Travel

The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card helps students build credit, earn rewards, and book their own hotel rooms in their name. A minimum security deposit of $200 is required, yet you can earn an unlimited 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply). There are no annual fees or foreign transaction fees, either.

Savvy traveler tip: If you find a better price on your hotel room or rental car booked with Capital One Travel within 24 hours, Capital One will match it or refund the difference.

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The information related to Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card has been independently collected by ValuePenguin and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication.

How much is a hotel point worth?

The value of a hotel point depends on the particular hotel (or issuer) loyalty program as well as how you choose to redeem your points.

Tip: You should check the value of your target redemption option before you transfer flexible points (like Chase Ultimate Rewards®) into a hotel program. You may be better off redeeming points through the card's travel portal. For example, Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card points are worth 1.25 when redeemed for travel through the Ultimate Rewards portal. As you can see from our chart above, most hotel program redemptions (outside of Hyatt) are worth less than this.

Types of hotel credit cards

Co-branded

General travel

Make a co-branded hotel credit card worth it by staying brand loyal and traveling frequently.

You'll get the most bang for your buck with a co-branded hotel credit card typically if you stay with the same hotel brand three or more times a year.

Even for travelers who stay with different hotel brands, or for those who only stay at hotels once or twice a year, hotel credit cards can still come in handy if you value earning free nights, perks and upgrades during your stay. When you accumulate enough points, you can cash your rewards in for free hotel stays on your next vacation.

For example, you may earn the highest number of points when you use your card to pay for stays and other eligible purchases with the hotel program. Hotel co-branded cards may also come with hotel-specific perks, such as complimentary elite status in the hotel’s rewards program. Elite status has a slew of benefits that vary by program and elite tier. Examples of elite status benefits include free room upgrades, welcome drinks and snacks and late checkout.

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Pros and cons

• A co-branded hotel credit card is a great tool that allows you to earn extra points for hotel stays, as well as earn on your everyday spending.

• The downside of hotel co-branded cards is that you receive the most benefit when you’re staying at the hotels in that brand’s portfolio.
• Co-branded cards are great for travelers who stay loyal to one particular brand, but not as convenient for those seeking flexibility.

Make a co-branded hotel credit card worth it by staying brand loyal and traveling frequently.

You'll get the most bang for your buck with a co-branded hotel credit card typically if you stay with the same hotel brand three or more times a year.

Even for travelers who stay with different hotel brands, or for those who only stay at hotels once or twice a year, hotel credit cards can still come in handy if you value earning free nights, perks and upgrades during your stay. When you accumulate enough points, you can cash your rewards in for free hotel stays on your next vacation.

For example, you may earn the highest number of points when you use your card to pay for stays and other eligible purchases with the hotel program. Hotel co-branded cards may also come with hotel-specific perks, such as complimentary elite status in the hotel’s rewards program. Elite status has a slew of benefits that vary by program and elite tier. Examples of elite status benefits include free room upgrades, welcome drinks and snacks and late checkout.

{"backgroundColor":"gray","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFor example, you may earn the highest number of points when you use your card to pay for stays and other eligible purchases with the hotel program. Hotel co-branded cards may also come with hotel-specific perks, such as complimentary elite status in the hotel\u2019s rewards program. Elite status has a slew of benefits that vary by program and elite tier. Examples of elite status benefits include free room upgrades, welcome drinks and snacks and late checkout.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Pros and cons

• A co-branded hotel credit card is a great tool that allows you to earn extra points for hotel stays, as well as earn on your everyday spending.

• The downside of hotel co-branded cards is that you receive the most benefit when you’re staying at the hotels in that brand’s portfolio.
• Co-branded cards are great for travelers who stay loyal to one particular brand, but not as convenient for those seeking flexibility.

Not interested in going brand loyal yet? General travel credit cards earn flexible points that can be worthwhile when you want to maintain flexibility while saving some dollars towards hotels when you travel.

Accumulate flexible points during the year and transfer to a hotel partner through your issuer's rewards program.

American Express

Hotel partners

• Choice Privileges 1:1
• Hilton Honors 1:2
• Marriott Bonvoy 1:1

General travel cards

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• American Express® Business Gold Card
• American Express® Gold Card
• The American Express® Green Card
• The Amex EveryDay® Preferred Credit Card from American Express
• Business Green Rewards Card from American Express
• The Amex EveryDay® Credit Card from American Express
• The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

Chase

Hotel partners

• IHG 1:1
• Marriott Bonvoy 1:1
• World of Hyatt 1:1

General travel cards

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Capital One

Hotel partners

• ALL - Accor Live Limitless 1:0.5
• Choice Privileges 1:1
• Virgin Red 1:1

General travel cards

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Spark Miles for Business
• Capital One Spark Miles Select for Business

How to choose a hotel credit card

Are you loyal to one particular brand of hotel, or do you prefer to mix up your stays based on where you’re traveling? If you’re a strong brand loyalist, and almost always travel to places where you can stay at that brand's hotels, a hotel co-branded card may make sense for you. If you don’t like to be confined to one brand, you may want to consider a general travel card.

Tip: Consider the size of a hotel program's network and make sure it has locations where you want to travel. Marriott, Hilton and IHG are large hotel programs that generally offer the best coverage. If you're collecting points for a trip, you should also check bookings for your intended travel dates to make sure award nights are available before you invest in a co-branded card.

Co-branded hotel cards typically offer perks different than general travel card, as listed below.

Co-branded card perk example

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (general travel card) offers unlimited Capital One lounge visits — this can save you hundreds of dollars if you frequently pay for airport lounge access.

General travel card perk example

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® (general travel card) offers a $100 reimbursement for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus, every four years — this is nice if you’d like these benefits but don’t travel enough to justify paying the application fee.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (general travel card) offers unlimited Capital One lounge visits — this can save you hundreds of dollars if you frequently pay for airport lounge access.

Co-branded hotel card tips

• Hotel brand loyalists often use a co-branded hotel card to accumulate enough points to book free nights. Calculate how many free nights each card can earn you in a year by converting points to dollars (using the hotel loyalty program table above). Make sure to also account for any free nights that come with a sign-up bonus in your final totals.
• People often choose a co-branded hotel card because many come with automatic elite status in the hotel loyalty program. Some offer the lowest tier of status, but a few offer the middle tier or even the highest tier of status. The value of elite status can vary greatly by program and tier, so you may want to check out our guides to the various hotel programs to gauge value.

For example, Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is worth just $14 a year, while Gold Elite is worth $84 and Platinum Elite is worth about $338. The Marriott Bonvoy program is one of the best hotel credit card rewards programs, as there are robust opportunities to earn valuable elite status benefits that will make your hotel experience better.

General travel card tip

Calculate the first year gains earned through the sign-up bonus and rewards rate (based on an assumed annual spend) for all general travel cards you're considering. Convert points to dollars (using the rewards loyalty program table above)

Now consider the most important factors that will impact a credit card's dollar value: sign-up bonus, earning rate and point value.

First year value = sign-up bonus + (earning rate x estimated annual spend) x redemption value - annual fee

Sign-up bonus

First, look at the number of points or miles you earn, but don’t stop there. Calculate the dollar value of the bonus and also look at how many nights the points will cover for the hotel you plan to book.

You should also look at the minimum spending requirement you must meet in order to get the bonus. Make sure you can comfortably meet the requirement while paying off your balance in full each month — you definitely don’t want to pay interest that would cancel out all or part of your bonus.

Earning rate

The earning rate is one of the most important factors in choosing the best hotel rewards credit card for you. Look at how many points you’ll earn for stays at one of the hotels in the brand portfolio, as well as what you’ll earn in other bonus categories and for all other spending. Review your spending patterns to see how much you can earn with each card you’re considering.

Point value

Make sure the dollar value of free nights earned in a year or the annual gains from a card are not offset by the annual fee, foreign transaction fees from traveling abroad or any other fees included in a card's fine print.

All points are not created equal, and hotel loyalty program points tend to be worth less than the points on general travel cards with transferable points. Don't just look at the number of points you’ll earn with your everyday spending — consider how much those points are worth in dollars, along with what the points translate to in terms of hotel stays.

Weigh the card's first year value in step 3 against the perks mentioned in steps 1 and 2 — pick the card that satisfies your needs best.

How to get a free stay at a hotel

There are several tried-and-true methods for getting a free stay at a hotel, from opening a credit card to becoming a loyalty program elite member. Here’s a rundown of the most common ways to get a free hotel stay:

One of the fastest and easiest ways to get a free stay at a hotel is to get a hotel rewards credit card. A hotel rewards card typically comes with a sign-up bonus that you earn for spending a certain amount on your card within a certain time. You can earn the bonus by putting your everyday spending on the card, then cash the bonus in for a free stay.

Another way to earn a free hotel stay is by joining a hotel loyalty program and staying regularly at hotels that are part of the program. Each time you complete a qualified stay, you’ll earn points you can accumulate toward a free night or stay in the future.

Many hotel credit cards offer a free night certificate when you meet certain criteria. For example, it’s common to offer a free night each year after your cardmember anniversary. You may also earn a free night by spending a certain amount on your card. The details vary based on the program.

Another great way to get a free hotel stay is to earn elite status with your preferred hotel loyalty program. For example, with the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, each elite status level you attain will grant you a higher number of elite night credits which you can then use towards a free hotel stay. Additionally, when you achieve Platinum status, you can choose five Suite Night Awards as your Annual Choice Benefit.

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Here\u2019s a rundown of the most common ways to get a free hotel stay:\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-Accordion\" data-component-name=\"Accordion\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"Root-sc-1p4b1c4 jtQORB\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Root-sc-18uhp3r bjqdvu\"\u003E\u003Cdiv tabindex=\"0\" class=\"HeaderWrapper-sc-9iud4t gnyuvR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"TitleWrapper-sc-8jgky4 ibypas\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"pTitleElement-sc-9cz7ej dKoVkb\"\u003ECredit card spending\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl jwzcXa ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--minus\" color=\"blue\" name=\"minus\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ContentWrapper-sc-1c2drvb gQWUK\"\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EOne of the fastest and easiest ways to get a free stay at a hotel is to get a hotel rewards credit card. A hotel rewards card typically comes with a sign-up bonus that you earn for spending a certain amount on your card within a certain time. You can earn the bonus by putting your everyday spending on the card, then cash the bonus in for a free stay. \u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Root-sc-18uhp3r bjqdvu\"\u003E\u003Cdiv tabindex=\"0\" class=\"HeaderWrapper-sc-9iud4t gnyuvR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"TitleWrapper-sc-8jgky4 ibypas\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"pTitleElement-sc-9cz7ej dKoVkb\"\u003EHotel stays\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl jwzcXa ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--plus\" color=\"blue\" name=\"plus\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ContentWrapper-sc-1c2drvb hkIbYG\"\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAnother way to earn a free hotel stay is by joining a hotel loyalty program and staying regularly at hotels that are part of the program. Each time you complete a qualified stay, you\u2019ll earn points you can accumulate toward a free night or stay in the future. \u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Root-sc-18uhp3r bjqdvu\"\u003E\u003Cdiv tabindex=\"0\" class=\"HeaderWrapper-sc-9iud4t gnyuvR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"TitleWrapper-sc-8jgky4 ibypas\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"pTitleElement-sc-9cz7ej dKoVkb\"\u003EFree night certificates\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl jwzcXa ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--plus\" color=\"blue\" name=\"plus\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ContentWrapper-sc-1c2drvb hkIbYG\"\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EMany hotel credit cards offer a free night certificate when you meet certain criteria. For example, it\u2019s common to offer a free night each year after your cardmember anniversary. You may also earn a free night by spending a certain amount on your card. The details vary based on the program.\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"Root-sc-18uhp3r bjqdvu\"\u003E\u003Cdiv tabindex=\"0\" class=\"HeaderWrapper-sc-9iud4t gnyuvR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"TitleWrapper-sc-8jgky4 ibypas\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"pTitleElement-sc-9cz7ej dKoVkb\"\u003EEarn elite status\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl jwzcXa ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--plus\" color=\"blue\" name=\"plus\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ContentWrapper-sc-1c2drvb hkIbYG\"\u003E\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAnother great way to get a free hotel stay is to earn elite status with your preferred hotel loyalty program. For example, with the \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/marriott-bonvoy-elite-status\"\u003EMarriott Bonvoy loyalty program\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E, each elite status level you attain will grant you a higher number of elite night credits which you can then use towards a free hotel stay. Additionally, when you achieve Platinum status, you can choose five Suite Night Awards as your Annual Choice Benefit.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"Accordion\"\u003E{\"maxContentHeight\":\"180\",\"tabItems\":[\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EOne of the fastest and easiest ways to get a free stay at a hotel is to get a hotel rewards credit card. A hotel rewards card typically comes with a sign-up bonus that you earn for spending a certain amount on your card within a certain time. You can earn the bonus by putting your everyday spending on the card, then cash the bonus in for a free stay. \",\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EAnother way to earn a free hotel stay is by joining a hotel loyalty program and staying regularly at hotels that are part of the program. Each time you complete a qualified stay, you\\u2019ll earn points you can accumulate toward a free night or stay in the future. \",\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EMany hotel credit cards offer a free night certificate when you meet certain criteria. For example, it\\u2019s common to offer a free night each year after your cardmember anniversary. You may also earn a free night by spending a certain amount on your card. The details vary based on the program.\",\"\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003EAnother great way to get a free hotel stay is to earn elite status with your preferred hotel loyalty program. For example, with the \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" title=\\\"Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/travel\\\/marriott-bonvoy-elite-status\\\"\\u003EMarriott Bonvoy loyalty program\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E, each elite status level you attain will grant you a higher number of elite night credits which you can then use towards a free hotel stay. Additionally, when you achieve Platinum status, you can choose five Suite Night Awards as your Annual Choice Benefit.\\u003C\\\/p\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003Cp\\u003E\"],\"tabTitles\":[\"Credit card spending\",\"Hotel stays\",\"Free night certificates\",\"Earn elite status\"],\"titleStyle\":\"p\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n","padding":"double"}

Study: 46% of American travelers are planning to stay in a hotel or resort in 2022

A recent study from ValuePenguin found the majority of travelers (65%) will be staying with family and friends.

Travel expert, Sophia Mendel, says vacation rentals (such as Airbnb and VRBO) are likely less favored than the standard hotel or resort because the concept is "relatively new and may be more interesting or appealing to the younger generation looking to save money and enjoy unique experiences." The takeaway: Committing to a luxury hotel card is a great option for those that are seeking extra perks.

FAQs about hotel credit cards

Hotel credit cards are affiliated with a hotel chain and its loyalty program, offering cardholders the ability to earn points for free stays. Each card will offer a varying rewards rate, with elevated bonuses for hotel spending. Some hotel credit cards even offer complimentary elite status and other exclusive hotel and travel benefits.

If you travel often, you should consider applying for a hotel credit card. As a cardholder, you'll earn an elevated rewards rate on any hotel stays and everyday purchases. However, you'll want to select a credit card with the best hotel loyalty program for you — this will depend on which hotel chain you prefer.

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is the best Marriott credit card out there. As a luxury hotel card, you'll pay a $650 annual fee, but you'll earn benefits such as $300 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $25 per month) for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide.

Hotel credit cards work just like any other travel rewards card. If there's an annual fee, you'll pay this fee every card membership year. You'll earn hotel points through the card's reward rate, redeemable for free stays through the loyalty program. Depending on the card, you'll earn complimentary elite status, affording you bonus points and free nights.

The pros of hotel credit cards include the opportunity to earn points for free stays, hotel elite status and free night awards. The cons are that you're locked into one hotel brand, and hotel points are worth notoriously less than airline miles and general travel rewards points.

All hotel co-branded credit cards offer the ability to earn points that you can redeem toward free hotel stays. Or, you can opt for a general travel rewards card like The Platinum Card® from American Express or the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card to transfer your points to hotel loyalty programs.

Any frequent traveler — whether you travel solo, with your family or in groups or for business — is a great candidate for a hotel credit card. If you already own an airline or general travel rewards cards, adding a hotel credit card to your wallet can help you diversify your points-earning strategy.

While most hotels require a credit card for booking, it is possible to pay with cash, a debit card or a prepaid card in some instances. To find out what hotels do not require a credit card, we recommend calling the hotel directly and asking what their policy is regarding non-credit card payments.

If you're deciding between a Marriott versus Hilton credit card, the answer will depend on your personal preferences and travel habits. If you tend to stay more frequently with one brand over the other, consider getting a credit card for that hotel chain. You could always get a card for both brands and just make sure that one or both of them don't charge an annual fee in order to keep the cost of ownership down.

Recap of the best hotel credit cards of November 2022

Expert insights to help you make smarter financial decisions

ValuePenguin has curated an exclusive panel of professionals, spanning various areas of expertise, to help dissect difficult subjects and empower you to make smarter financial decisions. Read on for more credit card insights.

1. Are loyalty programs and rewards enough to keep customers loyal to a brand? Why or why not?
2. What role can social media engagement and advertising play in helping hotels expand their loyal customer base?
3. A ValuePenguin study revealed that during the pandemic, 48% of millennials have booked multiple stays at Airbnbs, while only 24% have booked multiple stays at hotels. In your opinion, what can hotels do to appeal more to younger generations?

• Max Starkov
• Hospitality Tech Consultant and Adjunct Professor
• Read Answer

• Vanja Bogicevic, Ph.D., M.Arch.
• Clinical Assistant Professor
• Read Answer

• Jukka M. Laitamaki, Ph.D.
• Clinical Professor
• Read Answer

• Neel Das, Ph.D.
• Professor and MBA Director
• Read Answer

• Beth Egan
• Associate Professor of Advertising
• Read Answer

The commentary provided by these industry experts represent their viewpoints and opinions alone.

Max Starkov

Hospitality Tech Consultant and Adjunct Professor NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality

Are loyalty programs and rewards enough to keep customers loyal to a brand? Why or why not?

The best demonstration of brand loyalty in hospitality and travel, in general, is the share of repeat business. Travel consumers are buried under an avalanche of options and offers, and if they repeatedly choose your brand over the competing alternatives, obviously your brand has an appeal above and beyond the competition. This appeal is a result of the perceived value proposition of your brand and the travel consumer’s emotional attachment to your brand.

Of course, not all consumers are brand loyal. Direct Marketing Association (DMA) defines four types of loyal customers: Active Loyals (43%) who stay loyal to brands for both routine and special purchases, Habitual Loyals (23%) who are loyal for routine purchases but shop around for special services, Situational Loyals (9%) and Active Disloyals (27%).

Obviously, the most valuable are the first two categories, especially the Active Loyals. Amazon, Apple, Google and Microsoft, the most valuable brands in the world in 2021, enjoy wide brand loyalty from the Active Loyals. In hospitality, marquee brands like Mandarin Oriental, Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons are the ones that enjoy brand loyalty almost exclusively from the Active Loyals category.

For the rest of the "mass market" hospitality, it is impossible to nurture and maintain brand loyalty exclusively from the ranks of Active Loyals. This is why all major hotel chains use points-based loyalty programs with different membership levels in order to make their loyalty programs attractive to all four categories of loyal customers.

The major hotel chains also realized that awarding points was not enough of an appeal, especially to unmanaged business travelers and leisure travelers who typically belong to the Habitual and Situational Loyals categories. This was the reason why five years ago all major hotel chains began offering 5%-10% membership discounts to loyalty members when booking directly, in addition to the usual member perks and benefits. As a result, the loyalty programs ballooned. Marriott’s Bonvoy loyalty program now exceeds 125 million members, and Hilton’s Honors program exceeds 90 million members.

Loyalty programs with appealing membership pricing, perks and benefits are instrumental in increasing repeat direct business, lowering OTA (online travel agent) dependency and attracting a wide range of core and noncore customer segments, as well as new-to-the-brand customers.

In 2019, the last "normal" year in hospitality, the loyalty programs helped the major hotel chains:

• Increase repeat business: Over 59.2% of room nights at the major hotel chains were booked by loyalty members, 62% at Marriott and Hilton (Kalibri Labs).
• Decrease OTA exposure: The ratio of Brand.com versus OTA booked room nights improved to 2.5-1 and reached 3-1 at Marriott and Hilton.
• The major hotel chains are taking their loyalty programs to the next level by introducing member-only mobile check-in, preselection of the hotel room from digital floor plans, "smart rooms" that automatically adapt their configurations as per the loyalty member preferences, etc.

What is the situation with independent hotels? Unfortunately, less than 10% of independents have any form of a loyalty program or guest appreciation program. This is the reason why at independents:

• Repeat business is only in the range of 10%-15%.
• OTA dependency is growing and the ratio of Brand.com versus OTA booked room nights is negative 1-3 in the U.S. and 1-4 in Europe.

So, do loyalty programs work in hospitality? I believe the question of whether loyalty programs in hospitality still work is categorically answered by the differences in the share of repeat business and OTA dependency between the major hotel chains and independent hotels.

{"backgroundColor":"ice","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--root left\" \u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--image-container \"\u003E\n \u003Cimg alt=\"headshot of expert\" class=\"ShortcodeImage--image lazyload\" style=\"width: 60px;\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/max-starkov_iphdod\" srx=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,e_blur:1000,f_auto,h_1600,q_1,w_60\/v1\/max-starkov_iphdod\" srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/max-starkov_iphdod 1x, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/max-starkov_iphdod 2x\"\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"expert-max-starkov\"\u003EMax Starkov\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EHospitality Tech Consultant and Adjunct Professor NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003ESee their advice\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch4\u003EAre loyalty programs and rewards enough to keep customers loyal to a brand? Why or why not?\u003C\/h4\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe best demonstration of brand loyalty in hospitality and travel, in general, is the \u003Cem\u003Eshare of repeat business\u003C\/em\u003E. Travel consumers are buried under an avalanche of options and offers, and if they repeatedly choose your brand over the competing alternatives, obviously your brand has an appeal above and beyond the competition. This appeal is a result of the perceived value proposition of your brand and the travel consumer\u2019s emotional attachment to your brand.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EOf course, not all consumers are brand loyal. Direct Marketing Association (DMA) defines four types of loyal customers: Active Loyals (43%) who stay loyal to brands for both routine and special purchases, Habitual Loyals (23%) who are loyal for routine purchases but shop around for special services, Situational Loyals (9%) and Active Disloyals (27%).\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EObviously, the most valuable are the first two categories, especially the Active Loyals. Amazon, Apple, Google and Microsoft, the most valuable brands in the world in 2021, enjoy wide brand loyalty from the Active Loyals. In hospitality, marquee brands like Mandarin Oriental, Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons are the ones that enjoy brand loyalty almost exclusively from the Active Loyals category.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFor the rest of the \"mass market\" hospitality, it is impossible to nurture and maintain brand loyalty \u003Cem\u003Eexclusively\u003C\/em\u003E from the ranks of Active Loyals. This is why all major hotel chains use points-based loyalty programs with different membership levels in order to make their loyalty programs attractive to all four categories of loyal customers.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe major hotel chains also realized that awarding points was not enough of an appeal, especially to unmanaged business travelers and leisure travelers who typically belong to the Habitual and Situational Loyals categories. This was the reason why five years ago all major hotel chains began offering 5%-10% membership discounts to loyalty members when booking directly, in addition to the usual member perks and benefits. As a result, the loyalty programs ballooned. Marriott\u2019s Bonvoy loyalty program now exceeds 125 million members, and Hilton\u2019s Honors program exceeds 90 million members.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ELoyalty programs with appealing membership pricing, perks and benefits are instrumental in increasing repeat direct business, lowering OTA (online travel agent) dependency and attracting a wide range of core and noncore customer segments, as well as new-to-the-brand customers.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIn 2019, the last \"normal\" year in hospitality, the loyalty programs helped the major hotel chains:\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content ShortcodeList--content-margin\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--bullet\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Increase repeat business: Over 59.2% of room nights at the major hotel chains were booked by loyalty members, 62% at Marriott and Hilton (Kalibri Labs).\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Decrease OTA exposure: The ratio of Brand.com versus OTA booked room nights improved to 2.5-1 and reached 3-1 at Marriott and Hilton.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n The major hotel chains are taking their loyalty programs to the next level by introducing member-only mobile check-in, preselection of the hotel room from digital floor plans, \"smart rooms\" that automatically adapt their configurations as per the loyalty member preferences, etc.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWhat is the situation with independent hotels? Unfortunately, less than 10% of independents have any form of a loyalty program or guest appreciation program. This is the reason why at independents:\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root \"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content ShortcodeList--content-margin\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Cul class=\"ListUnordered--root ListUnordered--bullet\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n Repeat business is only in the range of 10%-15%.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListUnordered--list-item\"\u003E\n OTA dependency is growing and the ratio of Brand.com versus OTA booked room nights is negative 1-3 in the U.S. and 1-4 in Europe.\n \u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ul\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ESo, do loyalty programs work in hospitality? I believe the question of whether loyalty programs in hospitality still work is categorically answered by the differences in the share of repeat business and OTA dependency between the major hotel chains and independent hotels.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--root ShortcodeAlign--horizontal-center\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--container\"\u003E \n \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root Button--root Button--primary Button--auto-width\" title=\"Back to all experts\" href=\"#expertadvice\"\u003EBack to all experts\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n","padding":"double"}

Vanja Bogicevic, Ph.D., M.Arch.

Clinical Assistant Professor NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality

What role can social media engagement and advertising play in helping hotels expand their loyal customer base?

It is a valid assumption that customer engagement through social media may expand a customer base and encourage loyalty. However, loyalty has been the least likely driver of hotel booking, selected by only 13% of experiential travelers, as recorded by the Skift Research U.S. Experiential Traveler Trends Report 2019. The same group of guests overwhelmingly uses social media to share their vacation photos.

Therefore, the interesting question is how social media engages guests at different stages of their journey. How can hotels employ social media to enhance guests’ experience and boost loyalty?

In the pre-stay stage of a guest's journey, most hotels use social media for paid advertising to potential guests who fit the profiles of the desirable customer segments. Checking the basic demographic and geographic criteria when sending sponsored posts to users who supposedly fit the profile is not enough. Hotels could curate social media ads to match the lifestyle and interests of the targeted customer base. For example, instead of a generic sponsored post about the property or discount, emphasize pet-friendly features in the hotel to guests who post pictures of their dogs and live within driving distance of the hotel's destination. Special offers, discounts, promo codes and value deals are effective only if tailored to guests’ interests and needs.

During the stay, hotels could use social media to enhance interactions with their guests and deepen the relationships. Listen to the voice of guests by engaging them in contests and inviting user-generated content in exchange for perks, recognition and rewards. Integrate their social profiles with guest profiles to surprise and delight guests at premises.

Likewise, hotels could use their social media pages to personify or give voice to the brand by setting the tone of online conversation and advocating for issues that matter to their guests. Stories and live videos on Instagram and TikTok are raw, sincere and thus seen as more authentic by the guests.

Post-stay social media activities could be focused on evoking good memories via throwback posts to remind guests of their stay or to promote the perks of loyalty programs and referral programs to convert loyal guests into advocates who would attract new guests. This is the time to stay relevant in the guests’ eyes through occasional posts and inviting engagement while avoiding spamming.

{"backgroundColor":"ice","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--root left\" \u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--image-container \"\u003E\n \u003Cimg alt=\"headshot of expert\" class=\"ShortcodeImage--image lazyload\" style=\"width: 60px;\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/vanja-bogicevic_no9ctb\" srx=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,e_blur:1000,f_auto,h_1600,q_1,w_60\/v1\/vanja-bogicevic_no9ctb\" srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/vanja-bogicevic_no9ctb 1x, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/vanja-bogicevic_no9ctb 2x\"\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"expert-vanja-bogicevic\"\u003EVanja Bogicevic, Ph.D., M.Arch.\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EClinical Assistant Professor NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003ESee their advice\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch4\u003EWhat role can social media engagement and advertising play in helping hotels expand their loyal customer base?\u003C\/h4\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIt is a valid assumption that customer engagement through social media may expand a customer base and encourage loyalty. However, loyalty has been the least likely driver of hotel booking, selected by only 13% of experiential travelers, as recorded by the Skift Research U.S. Experiential Traveler Trends Report 2019. The same group of guests overwhelmingly uses social media to share their vacation photos.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ETherefore, the interesting question is how social media engages guests at different stages of their journey. How can hotels employ social media to enhance guests\u2019 experience and boost loyalty?\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIn the pre-stay stage of a guest's journey, most hotels use social media for paid advertising to potential guests who fit the profiles of the desirable customer segments. Checking the basic demographic and geographic criteria when sending sponsored posts to users who supposedly fit the profile is not enough. Hotels could curate social media ads to match the lifestyle and interests of the targeted customer base. For example, instead of a generic sponsored post about the property or discount, emphasize pet-friendly features in the hotel to guests who post pictures of their dogs and live within driving distance of the hotel's destination. Special offers, discounts, promo codes and value deals are effective only if tailored to guests\u2019 interests and needs.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EDuring the stay, hotels could use social media to enhance interactions with their guests and deepen the relationships. Listen to the voice of guests by engaging them in contests and inviting user-generated content in exchange for perks, recognition and rewards. Integrate their social profiles with guest profiles to surprise and delight guests at premises.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ELikewise, hotels could use their social media pages to personify or give voice to the brand by setting the tone of online conversation and advocating for issues that matter to their guests. Stories and live videos on Instagram and TikTok are raw, sincere and thus seen as more authentic by the guests.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EPost-stay social media activities could be focused on evoking good memories via throwback posts to remind guests of their stay or to promote the perks of loyalty programs and referral programs to convert loyal guests into advocates who would attract new guests. This is the time to stay relevant in the guests\u2019 eyes through occasional posts and inviting engagement while avoiding spamming.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--root ShortcodeAlign--horizontal-center\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--container\"\u003E \n \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root Button--root Button--primary Button--auto-width\" title=\"Back to all experts\" href=\"#expertadvice\"\u003EBack to all experts\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n","padding":"double"}

Jukka M. Laitamaki, Ph.D.

Clinical Professor NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality

A ValuePenguin study revealed that during the pandemic, 48% of millennials have booked multiple stays at Airbnbs, while only 24% have booked multiple stays at hotels. In your opinion, what can hotels do to appeal more to younger generations?

Before providing recommendations for hotels, it is important to understand why millennials book more home-sharing on websites such as Airbnb and VRBO than hotels. According to a Lightspeed/Mintel study, 40% of male and 27% of female millennials (born between 1980 and 1994) prefer home-sharing over hotels. These preferences were much higher than those of Gen X (born between 1960 and 1979) and baby boomers (born between 1940 and 1959). According to the study, 25% of male and 16% of female Gen Xers prefer home-sharing over hotels, while only 7% of male and 9% of female baby boomers prefer home-sharing over hotels.

Why do millennials prefer home-sharing over hotels? According to the Lightspeed/Mintel study, 53% of male and 40% of female millennials consider home-sharing a better value than hotels, while 45% of male and 29% of female millennials consider home-sharing more convenient than hotels.

Based on these results, hotels could do the following to respond to the millennial's preferences for home-sharing rentals over hotels.

1. Add value to the hotel stay by going far beyond the traditional hotel experience. Millennials prefer authentic, meaningful and local experiences.
2. The hotels should curate them for guests through a hotel app that allows easy access to information regarding local experiences such as tasting local products and drinks, and learning about local culture, history, activities, traditions, heritage, stories and crafts. The app should also include information regarding local outdoor activities, cultural and sporting events, nightlife, wellness and fitness services. Finally, the hotel and its app should make it easy for the guest to contribute positively to the local community and environment.
3. Make it convenient to search, book and share experiences through the hotel app. The Airbnb app is an excellent example, and the CitizenM hotel app is moving in the right direction.
4. Finally, hotels should highlight activities and services that home-sharing rentals do not offer, such as interesting and exciting social, communal, food service and bar spaces at the hotel. Public and Moxy hotels are good examples of how to capitalize on these spaces that set them apart from the home-sharing rentals.

Implementing steps one, two and three will be tough given that for some millennials, hotels do not even make it to their consideration set of lodging options. A good example is a 28-year-old who stated that "Hotels don't even come to mind when I consider where to stay. I go immediately to the Airbnb app and start searching and curating my whole vacation experience."

{"backgroundColor":"ice","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--root left\" \u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--image-container \"\u003E\n \u003Cimg alt=\"headshot of expert\" class=\"ShortcodeImage--image lazyload\" style=\"width: 60px;\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/jukka-laitamaki_qjflp5\" srx=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,e_blur:1000,f_auto,h_1600,q_1,w_60\/v1\/jukka-laitamaki_qjflp5\" srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/jukka-laitamaki_qjflp5 1x, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/jukka-laitamaki_qjflp5 2x\"\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"expert-jukka-laitamaki\"\u003EJukka M. Laitamaki, Ph.D.\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EClinical Professor NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003ESee their advice\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch4\u003EA ValuePenguin study revealed that during the pandemic, 48% of millennials have booked multiple stays at Airbnbs, while only 24% have booked multiple stays at hotels. In your opinion, what can hotels do to appeal more to younger generations?\u003C\/h4\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EBefore providing recommendations for hotels, it is important to understand why millennials book more home-sharing on websites such as Airbnb and VRBO than hotels. \nAccording to a Lightspeed\/Mintel study, 40% of male and 27% of female millennials (born between 1980 and 1994) prefer home-sharing over hotels. These preferences were much higher than those of Gen X (born between 1960 and 1979) and baby boomers (born between 1940 and 1959). According to the study, 25% of male and 16% of female Gen Xers prefer home-sharing over hotels, while only 7% of male and 9% of female baby boomers prefer home-sharing over hotels.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWhy do millennials prefer home-sharing over hotels? According to the Lightspeed\/Mintel study, 53% of male and 40% of female millennials consider home-sharing a better value than hotels, while 45% of male and 29% of female millennials consider home-sharing more convenient than hotels.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EBased on these results, hotels could do the following to respond to the millennial's preferences for home-sharing rentals over hotels.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--root\"\u003E\n\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--content ShortcodeList--content-margin\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeList--column\"\u003E\n \u003Col class=\"ListOrdered--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListOrdered--list-item\"\u003EAdd value to the hotel stay by going far beyond the traditional hotel experience. Millennials prefer authentic, meaningful and local experiences.\u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListOrdered--list-item\"\u003EThe hotels should curate them for guests through a hotel app that allows easy access to information regarding local experiences such as tasting local products and drinks, and learning about local culture, history, activities, traditions, heritage, stories and crafts. The app should also include information regarding local outdoor activities, cultural and sporting events, nightlife, wellness and fitness services. Finally, the hotel and its app should make it easy for the guest to contribute positively to the local community and environment.\u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListOrdered--list-item\"\u003EMake it convenient to search, book and share experiences through the hotel app. The Airbnb app is an excellent example, and the CitizenM hotel app is moving in the right direction.\u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003Cli class=\"ListOrdered--list-item\"\u003EFinally, hotels should highlight activities and services that home-sharing rentals do not offer, such as interesting and exciting social, communal, food service and bar spaces at the hotel. Public and Moxy hotels are good examples of how to capitalize on these spaces that set them apart from the home-sharing rentals.\u003C\/li\u003E\n \u003C\/ol\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EImplementing steps one, two and three will be tough given that for some millennials, hotels do not even make it to their consideration set of lodging options. A good example is a 28-year-old who stated that \"Hotels don't even come to mind when I consider where to stay. I go immediately to the Airbnb app and start searching and curating my whole vacation experience.\"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--root ShortcodeAlign--horizontal-center\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--container\"\u003E \n \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root Button--root Button--primary Button--auto-width\" title=\"Back to all experts\" href=\"#expertadvice\"\u003EBack to all experts\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n","padding":"double"}

Neel Das, Ph.D.

Professor and MBA Director, Department of Marketing and Supply Chain Management, Walker College of Business, Appalachian State University

Are loyalty programs and rewards enough to keep customers loyal to a brand? Why or why not?

Loyalty and reward programs are effective strategies for creating brand loyalty. However, "effective" does not translate to excellent, in that, while they are effective, such strategies are also the obvious ones. Think of any grocery store saving card or sandwich store "buy 10 sandwiches and get the next one free" card. While such programs motivate a customer to use the services of the brand, it really does not create a meaningful relationship. In most cases, such loyalty programs are short-lived and do not create any meaningful impression on the mind of the customer.

In order to create a meaningful relationship, there must be an intrinsic motivation on the part of the customer to be associated with the brand — there must be some kind of a resonance, a feeling of being in sync with the brand. Such feelings will be generated, for instance, if it is perceived that the brand has the best intentions regarding the customer. The primary question then is how to reflect the caring aspect of the brand in terms of the customer. One way can be to show solidarity and support for causes/charities that the customer cares about — not just provide lip service, but real and significant support.

In essence, while loyalty and reward programs are likely to work as short-term tactics toward building loyalty, the long-term strategy ought to include more carefully thought through and researched avenues to draw the customers closer to the brand. Hence, using both is likely to be an excellent strategy.

{"backgroundColor":"ice","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--root left\" \u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--image-container \"\u003E\n \u003Cimg alt=\"headshot of expert\" class=\"ShortcodeImage--image lazyload\" style=\"width: 60px;\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/expert-advice-headshots_sfuxjr\" srx=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,e_blur:1000,f_auto,h_1600,q_1,w_60\/v1\/expert-advice-headshots_sfuxjr\" srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/expert-advice-headshots_sfuxjr 1x, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/expert-advice-headshots_sfuxjr 2x\"\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"expert-neel-das\"\u003ENeel Das, Ph.D.\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EProfessor and MBA Director, Department of Marketing and Supply Chain Management, Walker College of Business, Appalachian State University\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003ESee their advice\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch4\u003EAre loyalty programs and rewards enough to keep customers loyal to a brand? Why or why not?\u003C\/h4\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ELoyalty and reward programs are effective strategies for creating brand loyalty. However, \"effective\" does not translate to excellent, in that, while they are effective, such strategies are also the obvious ones. Think of any grocery store saving card or sandwich store \"buy 10 sandwiches and get the next one free\" card. While such programs motivate a customer to use the services of the brand, it really does not create a meaningful relationship. In most cases, such loyalty programs are short-lived and do not create any meaningful impression on the mind of the customer.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIn order to create a meaningful relationship, there must be an intrinsic motivation on the part of the customer to be associated with the brand \u2014 there must be some kind of a resonance, a feeling of being in sync with the brand. Such feelings will be generated, for instance, if it is perceived that the brand has the best intentions regarding the customer. The primary question then is how to reflect the caring aspect of the brand in terms of the customer. One way can be to show solidarity and support for causes\/charities that the customer cares about \u2014 not just provide lip service, but real and significant support.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIn essence, while loyalty and reward programs are likely to work as short-term tactics toward building loyalty, the long-term strategy ought to include more carefully thought through and researched avenues to draw the customers closer to the brand. Hence, using both is likely to be an excellent strategy.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--root ShortcodeAlign--horizontal-center\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--container\"\u003E \n \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root Button--root Button--primary Button--auto-width\" title=\"Back to all experts\" href=\"#expertadvice\"\u003EBack to all experts\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n","padding":"double"}

Beth Egan

Associate Professor of Advertising, Co-Director of the W2O Center for Social Commerce, Syracuse University

Are loyalty programs and rewards enough to keep customers loyal to a brand? Why or why not?

Loyalty programs overall are extremely effective. Not only do people find value in the rewards points and the opportunities for free nights, but they also come with prestige. As you increase reward levels, you gain access to more features such as expedited check-in, late checkout and overall more attentive service. People also value consistency in their experience. Marriott does not usually rank high in terms of quality, but people are loyal to Marriott because it is a consistent, reliable experience. Think McDonald's.

What role can social media engagement and advertising play in helping hotels expand their loyal customer base?

The greatest value of social media in the hospitality industry is the ability to quickly respond to and address complaints before things go viral. Social media has become an excellent customer service tool for the travel industry overall.

Overall, advertising is most effective at reinforcing people’s existing preferences. Seeing ads for their favorite hotel brands serves as a reminder of their good choices. With programmatic advertising, we now have the ability to personalize the ads to people based on their online and offline behavior.

A ValuePenguin study revealed that during the pandemic, 48% of millennials have booked multiple stays at Airbnbs, while only 24% have booked multiple stays at hotels. In your opinion, what can hotels do to appeal more to younger generations?

I think every traditional brand is asking this question lately. I think it all comes down to personalization/customization. Younger generations don’t want cookie-cutter, they want to feel like they’re curating their own experience. It is difficult for hotels to adapt, as their business model is a very cookie-cutter/consistent experience (see my point on Marriott above). However, there are things that they could do in terms of in-room amenities to create the feeling of a more personalized experience.

They could also use their common spaces to host events or activities where people can get together for shared experience.

{"backgroundColor":"ice","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--root left\" \u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeImage--image-container \"\u003E\n \u003Cimg alt=\"headshot of expert\" class=\"ShortcodeImage--image lazyload\" style=\"width: 60px;\" src=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/donnelly-egan_lqfw41\" srx=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,e_blur:1000,f_auto,h_1600,q_1,w_60\/v1\/donnelly-egan_lqfw41\" srcset=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_1.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/donnelly-egan_lqfw41 1x, https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/value-penguin\/image\/upload\/c_limit,dpr_2.0,f_auto,h_1600,q_auto,w_60\/v1\/donnelly-egan_lqfw41 2x\"\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3 id=\"expert-beth-egan\"\u003EBeth Egan\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAssociate Professor of Advertising, Co-Director of the W2O Center for Social Commerce, Syracuse University\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--root ShortcodeToggle--article \" id=\u003E\n \u003Cbutton class=\"ShortcodeToggle--toggle\" onclick=\"this.parentNode.classList.toggle('ShortcodeToggle--open');\"\u003E\u003Cp class=\"ShortcodeToggle--label\"\u003ESee their advice\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents-wrapper\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeToggle--contents\"\u003E\n \u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch4\u003EAre loyalty programs and rewards enough to keep customers loyal to a brand? Why or why not?\u003C\/h4\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ELoyalty programs overall are extremely effective. Not only do people find value in the rewards points and the opportunities for free nights, but they also come with prestige. As you increase reward levels, you gain access to more features such as expedited check-in, late checkout and overall more attentive service. \nPeople also value consistency in their experience. Marriott does not usually rank high in terms of quality, but people are loyal to Marriott because it is a consistent, reliable experience. Think McDonald's.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch4\u003EWhat role can social media engagement and advertising play in helping hotels expand their loyal customer base?\u003C\/h4\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe greatest value of social media in the hospitality industry is the ability to quickly respond to and address complaints before things go viral. Social media has become an excellent customer service tool for the travel industry overall.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EOverall, advertising is most effective at reinforcing people\u2019s existing preferences. Seeing ads for their favorite hotel brands serves as a reminder of their good choices. With programmatic advertising, we now have the ability to personalize the ads to people based on their online and offline behavior.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch4\u003EA ValuePenguin study revealed that during the pandemic, 48% of millennials have booked multiple stays at Airbnbs, while only 24% have booked multiple stays at hotels. In your opinion, what can hotels do to appeal more to younger generations?\u003C\/h4\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EI think every traditional brand is asking this question lately. I think it all comes down to personalization\/customization. Younger generations don\u2019t want cookie-cutter, they want to feel like they\u2019re curating their own experience. It is difficult for hotels to adapt, as their business model is a very cookie-cutter\/consistent experience (see my point on Marriott above). However, there are things that they could do in terms of in-room amenities to create the feeling of a more personalized experience.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThey could also use their common spaces to host events or activities where people can get together for shared experience.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--root ShortcodeAlign--horizontal-center\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"ShortcodeAlign--container\"\u003E \n \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root Button--root Button--primary Button--auto-width\" title=\"Back to all experts\" href=\"#expertadvice\"\u003EBack to all experts\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E\n\n","padding":"double"}

For rates and fees of Hilton Honors American Express Card, please click here

For rates and fees of Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, please click here

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here

The information related to Hotels.com® Rewards Visa® Credit Card, the The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express and Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card has been independently collected by ValuePenguin and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply to American Express credit card offers. See americanexpress.com for more information.

Methodology

To make choosing the right hotel credit card easier, we've looked at credit cards reviewed on ValuePenguin as well as cards on major issuer sites to compile a list of the best rewards credit cards available right now. Our recommendations are based on the following criteria:

APR

How the hotel card's annual percentage rate (APR) compares to other cards in its category and whether or not there is a low interest intro offer on purchases and/or balance transfers.

Rewards

The card's rewards earning rate, points value, and how easy points are to redeem.

Additional perks and benefits

These include things like free nights, hotel room upgrades, elite status, complimentary breakfast and more.

Annual fee

Whether or not a card charges an annual fee, if the fee is waived for the first year, and if the card benefits offset or outweigh the annual fee.

Sign-up bonus

Whether or not a card comes with a welcome offer or sign-up bonus, how easy it is to earn the bonus, how valuable is the bonus overall.

Foreign transaction fees

Does the card charge foreign transaction fees and, if yes, does that limit the card's overall value.

Transferable points

Whether or not the card earns transferable points, how flexible are those points and how many transfer partners do they include.

Our choices are not influenced by our advertisers. Learn more on how we calculate rewards.

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