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VOILÀ Hotel Rewards Visa Signature®
VOILÀ Hotel Rewards Visa Signature®
- 20.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 20.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 30.24% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The VOILÀ Hotel Rewards Visa Signature® Card from Commerce Bank rewards boutique hotel aficionados with 5X points per $1 on eligible purchases and the prospects of an extra 50% more points after meeting a minimum spending requirement in the purchasing year.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- No annual fee
- 5X points at participating VOILÀ Hotels
- 1X points on all other purchases
- 50% additional points with VOILÀ stays after spending $10,000 in a purchasing year
- Regular Purchase APR: 20.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 20.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 30.24% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: 32.24% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 1% of each transaction in U.S.dollars; 2% of each transaction in foreign currencies
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You prefer to stay with boutique and smaller hotel chains on their travels
- You spend more than $10,000 per year with VOILÀ Hotels
- You don’t want to pay an annual fee on a credit card
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
- 21.49% to 28.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.49% to 28.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card from Chase Bank makes it easy – and lucrative – to spend money; earn points from everyday purchases and watch them add up to Reward Nights at more than 6,000 hotel properties worldwide. Using this card for all purchases can net you up to 17x points per $1 spent, and exclusive Mastercard benefits make this card an attractive offer.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 80,000 bonus points plus up to $50 in IHG® statement credits.
- No Annual Fee
- Earn up to 17 points total per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent on purchases on monthly bills, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 2 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
- Redeem 3 Nights, Get the 4th Night Free
- IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®
- Member FDIC
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.49% to 28.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.49% to 28.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% based on the Prime Rate
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You stay at IHG properties frequently when you travel
- You plan to spend at least $2,000 in the first three months of account opening to take advantage of a generous 120,000 bonus point offer
- You want a discount of 20% when purchasing IHG One Rewards member points with this card
- You would like a card with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®
Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®
- 20.99%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 20.99%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard® offers premium rewards, automatic Platinum Elite status, anniversary points bonuses, TSA Precheck credits, and more for a $95 annual fee (which Wells Fargo waives for the first year).
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- No foreign transaction fees
- Automatic Platinum Elite status in Choice Privileges
- $100 TSA Precheck or Global Entry statement credits every four years
- Earn 10X points with Choice Hotels
- Earn 5X points at gas stations, groceries, or home improvement stores
- Earn 1X on all other purchases
- Regular Purchase APR: 20.99%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 20.99%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Annual Fee: $95 (waived for the first year)
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You travel often and prefer to stay with Choice Hotel brands
- You fly and can benefit from TSA Precheck
- You spend heavily on gas or groceries
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
- 21.49% to 28.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.49% to 28.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card is – unsurprisingly – a bold rewards card option for fans of Marriott Bonvoy hotel properties. Not only can you earn points on travel, this card also rewards you for being a loyal Marriot guest. You’ll earn free stays faster when you use this card for everyday purchases, and there’s no limit to the number of points you can accumulate.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Limited Time Offer! Earn 60,000 Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card from Chase®!
- Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Card.
- 2X points for every $1 spent on other travel purchases (from airfare to taxis and trains).
- 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
- Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, qualifying you for Silver Elite Status. Restrictions apply.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Earn unlimited Marriott Bonvoy® points and get Free Night Stays faster.
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.49% to 28.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.49% to 28.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You already have, or plan to enroll in, a Marriott Bonvoy™ membership to maximize rewards
- You can anticipate spending enough in the first three months as a cardholder to satisfy the threshold needed to earn a sizable bonus points award
- You want a travel rewards card with no annual fees or foreign transaction fees
- You will take advantage of the 15 Elite Night credits to reach or surpass Silver Elite status
Sonesta World Mastercard®
Sonesta World Mastercard®
- 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
Bank of America’s Sonesta World Mastercard provides travelers with ample initial benefits and the ability to earn points on a variety of eligible business and personal expenses at Sonesta hotels, like the famous Royal Sonesta brand.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 3X points on Sonesta purchases
- 2X points on airfare, car rentals, and dining
- 1X points on all other purchases
- Automatic Sonesta Travel Pass Elite Member status
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within 90 days
- Earn additional 5,000 points after adding an authorized user within 90 days
- Anniversary bonus of 30,000 points for spending $7,500 per year
- Regular Purchase APR: 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: $10 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: $10 or 3% of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, $75 after that
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $29
- You travel frequently, either for business or pleasure
- You have good to excellent credit to receive the best rates
- You don’t want to pay foreign transaction fees
- You plan to add additional authorized users to your credit card
Westgate Rewards Mastercard®
Westgate Rewards Mastercard®
- 17.74% - 31.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 2X points on all Westgate purchases
- 2X points on gas and groceries
- 1X points for everything else
- No annual fee
- Preferred check-in for hotel stay
- Regular Purchase APR: 17.74% - 31.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $35
- N/A
Sandals Visa Signature® Credit Card
Sandals Visa Signature® Credit Card
- 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
- 0% for 7 months from account opening date Intro Purchase APR
At a Glance
The Sandals Visa Signature® Credit Card is an ideal rewards card for travelers who love vacationing with Sandals; Sandals Resorts has long been known for its lavish Caribbean all-inclusive vacation packages, which can now be booked with points earned from their co-branded credit card. Turn your everyday spending into an unforgettable Sandals vacation, and earn a $150 statement credit even as you save money with this credit card offer.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn a statement credit of $150 when you make $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of the account open date
- No annual fee
- Earn 3x points for every $1 spent on purchases at any Sandals & Beaches resorts
- Earn 1x point per $1 spent on everyday purchases
- Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 7 months from account opening date
- Regular Purchase APR: 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 18.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $29
- You're a frequent guest at Sandals Resorts
- You plan to spend $1,000 in the first 90 days of account opening to earn a statement credit of $150
- You want a card with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- You will take advantage of 0% interest on purchases for the first seven billing cycles
MGM Rewards Mastercard®
MGM Rewards Mastercard®
- 24.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 24.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 24.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
Fans of MGM Resorts and casinos will be lining up to apply for the MGM Rewards Mastercard®, which allows you to turn everyday purchases into MGM Rewards Points that can be redeemed for use on hotel room stays, dining and entertainment at participating MGM Resorts. Earn up to 3x points and Tier Credits for every dollar you spend with your card, and enjoy an introductory bonus of 10,000 points when you make qualifying purchases.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 10,000 points when you spend $1,000 in the first 3 billing cycles
- 3X points and tier credits per $1 spent at M life Rewards Destinations
- 2X points and tier credits per $1 spent on gas and supermarket purchases, 1x points and tier credits per $1 spent everywhere else
- Automatic upgrade to Pearl Level status, priority hotel check-in at M life Resorts, and more
- Regular Purchase APR: 24.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 24.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 24.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $15 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $35
- You will spend $1,000 in the first three billing cycles after opening an account to earn an introductory bonus
- You want a card with no annual fees and no foreign transaction fees
- You will take advantage of benefits like priority hotel check-in, automatic Pearl Level Status
- You're fans of MGM Resorts and MGM Resorts and plan to book stays frequently
Choice Privileges® Mastercard®
Choice Privileges® Mastercard®
- 20.99%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 20.99%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The Choice Privileges® Mastercard® offers robust rewards on hotel stays, gas, groceries, and more - with no annual fee or foreign transaction fees. The card also provides automatic Gold Elite status in the Choice Privileges loyalty program.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- No annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first three months
- Earn 5X points with Choice Hotels
- Earn 3X points at gas stations, groceries, or home improvement stores
- Automatic Gold Elite status
- Regular Purchase APR: 20.99%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 20.99%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: 5% for each balance transfer, with a minimum of $5
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance, whichever is greater
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You travel often and prefer to stay with Choice Hotel brands
- You want basic perks to improve your stays
- You spend heavily on gas or groceries
- You do't want to pay an annual fee
Radisson Rewards™ Premier Visa Signature® Card
Radisson Rewards™ Premier Visa Signature® Card
- 13.99% to 22.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 13.99% to 22.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 25.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn free stays at more than 1,100 hotels across the globe including the Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu®, Radisson®, Radisson RED, Park Plaza®, Park Inn® by Radisson and Country Inn & Suites® by Radisson
- Get 10 points per $1 spent in eligible net purchases at participating Radisson Family of Hotels
- Get 5 points per $1 spent in eligible net purchases everywhere else
- Earn up to 85,000 bonus points when you spend $3,000 within the first 90 days of account opening
- Regular Purchase APR: 13.99% to 22.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 13.99% to 22.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 25.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Annual Fee: $75
- Foreign Transaction Fee: Up to 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- N/A
You've viewed 5 of 35 credit cards
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Why Choose a Hotel Credit Card?
One of the main reasons people choose to use credit cards is to book vacations, particularly when it comes to travel accommodations such as hotels. However, we all know that travel, especially staying in hotels, can be quite expensive. Luckily, there are loyalty programs available that can help customers earn rewards and even book free nights. These loyalty programs often collaborate with major credit card issuers in the industry to offer co-branded credit cards. By using these credit cards, account holders can earn additional reward points for every dollar they spend. In some cases, these credit cards may even provide extra perks during their hotel stays.
A hotel credit card can offer various benefits to its users. For instance, it may provide free nights as a welcome bonus, on account anniversaries, or as a reward for meeting certain spending requirements. These credit cards may also offer perks like complimentary breakfast, enhanced Wi-Fi, or late check-out. Furthermore, they may provide other exclusive benefits that are not available to regular customers who do not hold a hotel credit card.
How Do Hotel Credit Cards Work?
Hotel credit cards work by allowing you to earn points for staying at hotels. However, there are a few more details to consider. Hotel rewards credit cards are typically associated with a specific hotel chain, such as Hyatt, Hilton, Radisson, or Best Western. Staying at these chains will earn you additional rewards.
In addition to hotel stays, many hotel rewards cards also offer extra rewards for purchases in select categories. These categories can include dining, gas stations, grocery stores, and more. Businesses can also benefit from bonus categories, which may include advertising, shipping, air travel, and others. Some business credit cards even offer personal bonus categories, such as grocery stores and restaurants.
The rewards points earned through hotel cards can be used for various awards, including cash back, merchandise, gift cards, flights with airline partners, and car rentals with partners.
Furthermore, hotel cards often come with sign-up bonuses. These bonuses are typically earned after making a minimum number of purchases within a certain timeframe after card membership. For example, you might need to spend $3,000 on purchases within a calendar month to qualify for the bonus. Generally, the spending requirements for these bonuses are either 90 days or one year.
Benefits of Hotel Credit Cards
Hotel credit cards offer a variety of benefits for cardholders. Similar to airline credit cards and travel cards, hotel rewards cards often come with generous signup bonuses. These bonuses typically include points, which can be worth as much as $1,000, as well as free nights each year. Hotel cards also provide complimentary upgrades, statement credits, and airport and travel perks.
Moreover, hotel cards offer exceptional value for those who are loyal to a specific hotel chain. By staying with brands within the chain, cardholders can earn additional points for every dollar spent, leading to more free nights. Participating stays also result in higher tiers in the hotel loyalty programs, which offer upgrades, free Wi-Fi, complimentary stays, late check-out, and more.
Furthermore, credit cards from major names in hospitality and gaming provide an excellent opportunity to maximize rewards for various categories such as travel, airfare, car rental, dining, and groceries. Gambling and gaming credit cards cover well-known brands like MGM and Caesars and unexpected names like Royal Caribbean or Sandals.
What Hotels Offer Hotel Credit Cards?
You might be surprised how many co-branded hotel rewards cards are on the market in the United States. If you can imagine a loyalty program, you can probably apply for a credit card for it – here are all the hotel loyalty programs that offer a U.S. personal or business credit card:
What to Look for with Hotel Rewards Credit Cards
Card issuer features are credit card perks, benefits, and security protections specific to the bank or credit card type. American Express, Visa, and Mastercard all offer unique in-house features to cardholders. These features also vary depending on the level – or tier – of credit card in the payment network hierarchy.
Here are some of the more critical features to look out for when deciding on a co-branded hotel credit card:
① Find the hotel loyalty program that’s right for you | One of the reasons why hotel rewards cards are so popular is that they savings across multiple brands under one hotel’s umbrella. If you prefer staying in a Marriott, for example, the Marriott Bonvoy program might be best for you. |
② Sign-up bonuses | Hotel credit cards often feature amazing welcome bonuses for new and successful applicants. It’s not uncommon to see sign-up bonuses of 100,000 points or more. |
③ Flexibility of rewards | Rewards flexibility is another critical consideration when it comes to this type of card. Many hotel rewards credit cards have fairly strict terms of redemption. These are typically for hotels within the hotel’s portfolio, or transfers to other partners, such as airline rewards programs. |
④ Hotel perks | Before you apply for a hotel rewards credit card always be check out the benefits you can expect from card membership. The higher the annual fee, the better the perks. The same rationale applies to other perks, like lounge access at airports. |
⑤ Consider another rewards card | Because co-branded credit cards feature more restrictive reward redemptions than proprietary rewards cards from banks like Citi, Chase, or Amex. |
Other Things to Look for
Annual Fee
Many co-branded credit cards come with “free” and “premium” versions. Premium versions come with an annual fee of between $50 and $495, with an average yearly charge around $95 (such as the impressive Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card).
Free versions are also known as no annual fee hotel cards. These cards offer rewards at a lower rate than premium cards but without a yearly membership fee – with one prominent example being the Hilton Honors American Express Card.
Should you apply for a no annual fee hotel card or opt for the premium version?
No annual fee credit cards offer a hassle-free way to expedite your earnings within your favorite hotel loyalty program. Since they don’t require any out-of-pocket fees, these types of cards are perfect for folks who may not travel enough to warrant paying for hotel-related perks.
The easiest way to determine whether applying for a card with an annual fee is right for you is to:
- Examine your current traveling habits
- Check if your spending levels match the minimums that the premium card requires to qualify for bonus points after spending that amount in the first months of card membership.
How to downgrade to a no annual fee version of a hotel credit card
An alternative reason why you might consider a hotel card with no annual fee is that your travel needs are changing. Whether you were traveling for business or pleasure, if you’re not flying to destinations as often, you may find no longer need the premium paid version of a hotel credit card or that you are unable to take advantage of the perks the card offers you.
If you find yourself in this boat, downgrading to a no-annual fee card is an excellent alternative to closing a credit card – the account stays open (which is good for your average age of credit). Still, you are no longer obligated to pay the costs of the premium card.
Whether you want to upgrade or downgrade your credit card, simply call the card issuer and let them know. The one caveat, however, is that you may not be eligible to earn the card’s signup bonus to which you are switching.
Interest Rates and Other Fees
Hotel cards typically have higher interest rates than other credit cards due to the number of incentives and rewards possibilities included. In exchange for the bonuses offered, hotel credit cards often charge annual fees, which can range from around $50 to $400+. However, the annual fee is often offset by the card’s perks. Some cards waive the annual charge for the first year. Taking advantage of every possible benefit can help erase the annual fee’s sting and increase the card’s overall value.
No Foreign Transaction Fees
If a significant source of your credit card bonus points come from a hotel stay or travel-related purchases that are generated abroad, then choosing a hotel credit card with no foreign transaction fees is a necessity. Credit cards with this feature allow international travelers to work – or play – and swipe outside of the United States without any penalty charges.
What are foreign transaction fees?
Foreign transaction fees are charges from card issuers for transactions at non-U.S. retailers. However, these fees occur for more than physically paying with your credit card overseas. Foreign transaction fees include online purchases to foreign companies, ATMs, or currency conversion fees.
Currency conversion fees occur when the payment networks (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, etc.) charge the card issuer (Capital One, Chase, Wells Fargo, etc.) a processing fee. Typically, 1% of each U.S. dollar spent. While currency conversion fees are not the same as foreign transaction fees, they are often included together on a credit card statement.
Tips for Using Credit Cards Abroad:
- Be careful of foreign ATMs as they sometimes carry an international surcharge in addition to the ATM fee
- Notify your card issuer before your departure, the unfamiliar location could be flagged as suspicious activity and potentially cause your card to be canceled – leaving you financially stranded in a foreign country
- Check whether your card allows you to earn rewards for international purchases
Targeted Offers
Credit card companies, as well as hotel and airline loyalty programs, often offer exclusive promotions to their customers that are invite-only. Card issuers offer these discounts on criteria like credit history, spending habits, and geographic location.
The metrics used to determine who gets what offer vary by the credit card company, but unless you have an excellent credit score, clean credit history, and are actively using revolving credit (and are a member of the rewards program that’s being targeted), you may not see a targeted offer in your mailbox.
Helpful Hotel Terms to Know
Here are some useful hotel credit card terms and benefits you should understand before applying:
Early Check-in and Late Check-out
Flexibility is important when traveling, as itineraries can change due to flight delays, traffic, or bad weather. Missing a flight or a connection, or a train that’s running late can mean you miss the window you’ve scheduled to check-in at a hotel; perhaps you spent the evening enjoying a few drinks, or after celebrating a friend’s wedding and you got back to your room.
Common Hotel Check-In Policies
On average, hotel guests can expect to arrive at their hotel and check-in to the room they’ve booked beginning at 3 or 4 pm. Hotels typically require guests to vacate the room they are in by noon on the day they are scheduled to check out, and each room needs to be cleaned and “turned over” by the hotel staff to ensure the next occupant (you) receives a room up to the hotel’s standards.
When you arrive at your hotel before your scheduled check-in time, you’ll likely want to check in to your room so you can drop off your bags and relax a bit. Unless you’ve called ahead, odds are you will not be able to access your room immediately.
Although you can leave your bags with the hotel concierge and explore your destination while you wait for your room to be ready, you’ll need to return at your scheduled time in order to get into your room. This inconvenience can be avoided with proper planning – and by leveraging hotel loyalty programs, along with co-branded credit cards.
When you join a hotel rewards program, either via a co-branded credit card or directly, you open the door to a variety of suite, exclusive benefits not available to the average customer – and depending on the program, early check-in (when available) is at the top of that list.
Common Hotel Check-Out Policies
As mentioned above, noon is a standard check-out time with many hotels, although technically guests will notice that unless they request a later check-out time they will be asked to turn in their keys as early as 10 am. A late check-out time is not standard fare for most hotel guests and must be requested at check-in. However, participation in hotel loyalty programs often will grant members automatic late check-out times as a perk not available to guests who are not a member of the rewards program.
If you have a co-branded credit card that offers rewards points for spending money, you may also be eligible for a late check-out time, if the hotel whose card you use offers it as part of their loyalty program. Check the fine print for your co-branded credit card for more details.
Room Upgrades
Travelers employ many strategies to score a free room upgrade; sometimes, all you need to do is ask nicely! Fortune favors the bold – hotels often reserve special treatment for guests who are polite when requesting their upgrade, and it never hurts to ask – if you don’t ask for a room upgrade, odds are you won’t automatically be given the keys to that penthouse suite.
While it pays to be proactive, your best bet when looking for a room upgrade is to participate in that hotel’s loyalty program.
Some hotels will automatically bump you up to a higher room category based on your membership to their rewards program, while others allow you to cash in points in exchange for a nicer room.
Free Breakfast
The only thing better than waking up in a hotel swathed in the buttery soft sheets with sunlight poking through the window in a beautiful new place is starting your journey with a delicious free breakfast provided by your hotel.
Some loyalty programs offer complimentary breakfasts. While this perk may not be explicitly offered as one of the card’s features, many co-branded hotel cards provide automatic membership upgrades within their loyalty programs. Here’s who offers free breakfast:
Brand | Eligiblity |
---|---|
Best Western | Best Western doesn’t require a specific level of membership to score breakfast. Enjoy your first meal of the day on the house whenever you book at a Best Western breakfast. Their options typically include an assortment of pastries, cereals, and oatmeal, as well as hot breakfast options such as eggs and waffles. |
Drury Rewards | When it comes to making their customers feel at home, Drury Hotels does more than talk a good talk. Their trademark ‘The Extras Aren’t Extra®’ freebies include a host of hotel perks that don’t require a credit card or a specific membership level in their reward programs to receive free hot breakfast with every stay. |
Hilton Honors | Gold status required. To earn the Gold level of membership within the Hilton Honors membership program requires either 20 stays within a calendar year; 40 nights within a calendar year; or 75,000 Hilton Honors Base Points within a calendar year |
IHG One | Sadly, even elite IHG cardholders and customers aren’t guaranteed complimentary breakfast through the IHG loyalty program. The Intercontinental Ambassador tier, which can be purchased for a flat rate of $200, offers complimentary breakfast for stays in Greater China – and unless your travels frequently take you to Asia, this membership perk would be hard to take advantage of. However, IHG’s Holiday Inn Express and Staybridge Suites offer free breakfast to all patrons regardless of the length of stay or membership level. |
Marriott Bonvoy | Platinum Elite status required. Elite status is the upper mid-tier level of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. Achieving this status is refreshingly straightforward; however, it does require 50 nights per year to reach. |
Radisson Rewards | Platinum status required, which requires a minimum number of either 60 nights within a year or 30 stays within a year |
World of Hyatt | Only the most frequent of Hyatt hotel-goers are eligible to receive complimentary breakfast as Globalist status is the 4th and highest tier of World of Hyatt membership. Earning Globalist status requires either 60 qualifying nights or 100,000 Base Points per year |
Wyndham Rewards | Sadly, no level of elite status or the sheer number of hotel reservations will yield free breakfast within the Wyndham rewards program. Fortunately, several Wyndham hotels brands offer this amenity for merely making a reservation. |
How to Maximize Hotel Rewards Points
Beyond amazing perks, such as complimentary night stays early check-in and late check-out, or free breakfast, one of the best parts of hotel rewards programs is the fantastic value for money members get for their points. Hotel rewards points are applicable for room upgrades, free nights, or other hotel-centric perks. These points also apply to flights with participating airline partners. Getting the most value for money with hotel loyalty points requires an understanding of what each point is worth, as well as what partner points can be transferred.
FAQs
Many questions arise when considering applying for a hotel credit card. Here are some of the more commonly asked questions concerning hotel cards, loyalty programs, and:
- Yes and no. If you travel rarely, hotel cards don’t make much sense – unless the card charges no annual fee. Those who frequently travel for business or pleasure can get significant value from a hotel rewards card.
- Many good hotel cards offer the same basic features. These perks include free Wi-Fi, late checkout, potential upgrades, and more. As a rule of thumb, the higher the annual fee, the better the rewards with a credit card from a hotel brand.
- All hotel credit cards offer the chance of free night stays. Some cards come with hefty sign-up bonuses, which equate to one to five free nights automatically, while another award free night stays after each cardmember anniversary.
- As mentioned, some credit cards come with a complimentary night stay after each year of card membership. The following hotel cards currently offer a free night stay to holders each year:
- The best rewards programs depend on the user and their intent. However, the Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and World of Hyatt programs have an excellent reputation. These loyalty programs offer significant value, impressive rewards, and great perks for members.
- Unlike airline cards, there are no secured hotel cards. Because of this, they are getting a hotel rewards card requires a good credit score – as a minimum. To get a hotel credit card, applicants need a credit score in the 700s, though a score above 680 might be enough in some cases.
- Because there are no secured hotel cards, people with bad credit should consider a travel rewards card or an airline card. Travel cards are a good choice as they offer a variety of options for redeeming points and offer a greater selection of brands to choose from.
- Free breakfast is something everyone enjoys, no matter your credit score or loyalty tier. Several credit cards offer free breakfast as a cardholder perk, including:
- Additionally, some hotel loyalty programs offer complimentary breakfast by membership tier:
- Best Western – Free for all Best Western Rewards members.
- Hilton Honors – Gold members receive free breakfast. Gold status requires 20 stays within a calendar year, 40 nights within a calendar year, or 75,000 Hilton Honors Base Points within a calendar year.
- World of Hyatt – Globalist members get free breakfast. This tier requires 60 qualifying nights, 100,000 points, or hosting 20 qualifying events/meetings per year.
- Marriott Bonvoy – Platinum Elite status required for free breakfast. This tier requires 50 nights per year to reach.
- Radisson Rewards – Platinum status earns free breakfast. Platinum is the highest tier and requires 60 nights within a year or 30 stays within a year.
- IHG and Wyndham Rewards – No tiers receive complimentary breakfast.
- Most hotels hold $50 to $200 per night for incidentals, on top of the room price.
Conclusion
Finding the best hotel credit card involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure that it aligns with your travel and spending habits. The benefits provided by hotel credit cards can significantly enhance your travel experiences, but only if you are proactive about maximizing rewards and taking advantage of the benefits included. By carefully weighing these factors, you can select a hotel credit card that not only complements their travel lifestyle but also maximizes their rewards and benefits.
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