Hotel Loyalty Programs Actually Worth Joining Today
Are you tired of signing up for countless hotel loyalty programs only to find out that they don’t really offer any tangible benefits? You’re not alone. With so many hotels touting their loyalty programs, it can be challenging to determine which ones are actually worth joining. But fear not, dear traveler, as we have done the research for you. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best hotel loyalty programs that are actually worth joining today.
The Perks of Hotel Loyalty Programs
Hotel loyalty programs are designed to reward frequent guests with various perks and benefits. The idea is simple – the more you stay at a particular hotel, the more you’ll be rewarded. From free room upgrades and complimentary breakfast to late check-outs and exclusive discounts, hotel loyalty programs offer many benefits to their members. But not all loyalty programs are created equal, and it’s essential to choose the right one to make the most out of your travels.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hotel Loyalty Program
Before we dive into the best hotel loyalty programs, it’s crucial to understand what makes a loyalty program actually worth joining. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a hotel loyalty program:
1. Ease of Earning Points
The primary purpose of a loyalty program is to earn points that you can later redeem for rewards. Hence, it’s essential to choose a program that offers a variety of ways to earn points. Some programs offer points for every dollar spent, while others provide additional points for booking directly with the hotel or using their credit card. Choose a program that aligns with your travel habits and offers the most opportunities to earn points.
2. Redemption Options
What good are points if you can’t redeem them for something you actually want? Check the redemption options offered by the hotel loyalty program to ensure they suit your needs. Do they offer free nights, room upgrades, or other perks? Can you redeem points for flights or car rentals? A loyalty program that offers a wide range of redemption options will be of more value to you.
3. Elite Status Benefits
One of the most coveted perks of hotel loyalty programs is achieving elite status. This status can come with many benefits, such as room upgrades, free breakfast, and late check-outs. It’s advisable to choose a program that offers elite status benefits and has achievable requirements for attaining them.
Top Hotel Loyalty Programs Worth Joining Today
1. Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy is the loyalty program of Marriott International, the world’s largest hotel chain. With over 7,000 hotels in over 130 countries, Marriott Bonvoy is a flexible and rewarding program that is hard to beat. Members can earn points for every dollar spent on eligible stays, as well as other activities such as dining, car rentals, and even cruises. The program offers six elite status levels, each with its set of benefits, including free room upgrades, late check-outs, and lounge access. Marriott Bonvoy also boasts a vast range of redemption options, including free nights, flights, and experiences.
2. World of Hyatt
Another top-rated hotel loyalty program is World of Hyatt, which has over 1,000 properties worldwide. The program offers various ways to earn points, such as stays, dining, and their credit card. With just 30 eligible nights or 50,000 base points per calendar year, members can achieve the highest status level, Explorist, which comes with perks like complimentary breakfast and room upgrades. World of Hyatt also has an extensive list of redemption options, including free nights, suite upgrades, and even exclusive experiences.
3. Hilton Honors
Hilton Honors is the loyalty program of Hilton Hotels & Resorts, with over 6,000 properties globally. The program offers members the opportunity to earn points for stays, dining, and shopping, as well as through their credit card. With four elite status levels, members can enjoy various benefits, such as free room upgrades, breakfast, and lounge access. Hilton Honors also has an impressive range of redemption options, including free nights, room upgrades, and even charitable donations.
4. IHG Rewards Club
IHG Rewards Club is the loyalty program of InterContinental Hotels Group, with a portfolio of over 6,000 hotels in more than 100 countries. Members can earn points through stays, dining, and their credit card. The program offers four elite status levels, each with its unique set of benefits, such as complimentary room upgrades, free breakfast, and even lounge access. IHG Rewards Club also has a wide range of redemption options, including free nights, flights, car rentals, and gift cards.
5. Radisson Rewards
Radisson Rewards is the loyalty program of Radisson Hotels, with over 1,500 properties worldwide. The program offers members the opportunity to earn points for every dollar spent on eligible stays, as well as through their credit card. The program has three elite status levels, each with its perks, including room upgrades, late check-outs, and even free breakfast. Radisson Rewards has an extensive list of redemption options, including free nights, room upgrades, and even gift cards.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hotel loyalty program can make a significant difference in your travel experience. It’s essential to consider factors such as ease of earning points, redemption options, and elite status benefits before choosing a program. The five loyalty programs mentioned above are among the best in the industry and are definitely worth joining today. Start earning points and enjoy the perks of being a loyal guest at your favorite hotels. Happy travels!
