Ultimate Guide to the Best Hotel Credit Cards for Travelers

Choosing the right hotel credit card can significantly enhance your travel experience by offering valuable rewards and exclusive perks. These specialized cards often provide better benefits compared to standard hotel credit cards, especially if you frequently stay at a specific hotel chain or want to maximize your travel rewards. They can also reduce expenses on family vacations and business trips, making travel more affordable and enjoyable.

Here are key tips to help you select the most suitable hotel credit card:

Earn Rewards on Every Purchase
Even if you don't own a dedicated hotel card, you can still earn rewards with other credit cards on categories like dining and gas. These points can be used for upgrades or free stays.

For example, prioritizing rewards on dining and fuel can accumulate points faster, helping you achieve free hotel nights sooner.

Opt for Co-Branded Hotel Cards
Many hotel brands offer co-branded credit cards that earn rewards specific to their properties. If you frequently stay with a specific hotel chain, selecting their card maximizes your benefits. Conversely, if your stays are spread across various brands, a travel rewards card that earns points on multiple categories might be more advantageous.

Evaluate Signup Bonuses
Top hotel credit cards offer signup bonuses when you meet a minimum spend within the first few months. Bonuses often range between $1,000 and $3,000, which can cover at least one night’s stay. These incentives can simplify your decision-making process.

Assess Point Value
Valuing hotel points can be complex, as redemption rates vary based on hotel, location, and time. Calculating the worth of points involves dividing the cost of a stay by the points earned, helping you determine how quickly you can redeem for free nights.

Take Advantage of Hotel Perks
Beyond free nights, top hotel credit cards often include additional benefits like room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, late checkout, and elite status in hotel loyalty programs. These features elevate your stay and foster brand loyalty.

Based on these criteria, here are ten standout hotel credit cards worth considering:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
  Offers a generous sign-up bonus with a $0 annual fee for the first year. It has an ongoing annual fee of $95 and a variable APR from 17.49% to 24.49%.
• Marriott Rewards® Premier Plus Credit Card
  Annual fee of $95, earning six points per dollar at Marriott and SPG properties, and two points per dollar elsewhere.
• Hyatt Credit Card
  With a $75 annual fee, earns 40,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 in the first three months.
• Starwood Preferred Guest® Card from American Express
  First-year fee waived, then $95 annually. Offers an APR between 16.74% and 20.74%.
• IGH Rewards Club Premier Card
  From Chase, with an $84 annual fee, providing 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 within three months.
• Barclays Choice Privileges Visa Signature
  No annual fee, with an APR ranging from 16.74% to 26.49%, depending on creditworthiness.
• The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Card
  Charges a $45 annual fee and offers a $300 annual travel credit along with an APR of 17.49% – 24.49%.
• Hiltons Honors American Express® Ascend
  $95 annual fee, APR from 17.24% to 26.24%, plus weekend night rewards for spending over $15,000 annually.
• Capital One® Venture® Rewards
  Earn 50,000 miles after spending $3,000 in three months, with a $0 annual fee for the first year and $95 afterward.
• Wyndham Rewards® Visa Signature® Card
  No annual fee, offering benefits like free Wi-Fi, late check-out, and dedicated service at Wyndham properties with gold status.