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Hotel credit cards can earn you free nights, upgrades, luxury perks and more, whether you have a preferred chain or you like to stay flexible. If you're not traveling as much, some cards earn points for non-travel purchases too. Check out the best hotel cards of 2022 from our partners and find a better way to stay.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
7X
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
5X
Earn 5X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
3X
Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Intro offer
Earn 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, you can earn up to $100 in Statement Credits on eligible purchases made on the Card at any of the Hilton family hotels in the first 12 months of Membership.
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
17.24%-26.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Hilton Honors American Express Card is a great no-annual-fee option for travelers who like to stay at Hilton hotels but don't travel enough to warrant getting a top-tier card that charges an annual fee. The rewards rates and elite benefits are less extravagant than those of other Hilton cards, but there's still a lot to like.
This card earns rewards on both Hilton hotel stays and everyday purchases at U.S restaurants, U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations.
Includes automatic Silver elite status, which comes with benefits including no resort fees on reward stays, late check out and a fifth night free when you book a standard room stay with points alone.
Cons
You cannot redeem points earned with this card for cash back.
You can only use the free night’s stay certificate for a standard room.
Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, you can earn up to $100 in Statement Credits on eligible purchases made on the Card at any of the Hilton family hotels in the first 12 months of Membership.
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
Earn 5X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
12X
12X at hotels & resorts in the Hilton portfolio.
6X
6X on Select Business & Travel Purchases.
3X
3X on all other eligible purchases. Terms & Limitations Apply.
Intro offer
Earn 130,000 Points
Limited Time Offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, you can earn up to $130 in Statement Credits on eligible purchases made on the Card at any of the Hilton family hotels in the first 12 months of Membership. Offer expires 7/6/2022.
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
17.24% - 26.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
With the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, cardholders can look forward to generous rewards rates on stays at Hilton properties, airfare purchased through Amex Travel, U.S. purchases for shipping costs, wireless telephone services purchases directly from U.S. service providers and more. Benefits such as bonus amenity privileges and room upgrades are sure to make hotel stays more enjoyable.
Receive complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status with this card, opening access to loyalty benefits like room upgrades and bonus amenity privileges.
Get 10 complimentary visits a year to Priority Pass Select’s airport lounges once you enroll in the Priority Pass Select program with your card.
Cons
This card has a $95 annual fee.
Reward redemption values are low outside of designated reward nights.
Limited Time Offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, you can earn up to $130 in Statement Credits on eligible purchases made on the Card at any of the Hilton family hotels in the first 12 months of Membership. Offer expires 7/6/2022.
Earn Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card: 12X at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio, 6X at US gas stations, on US purchases for shipping, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from US service providers, on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel, on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and at US restaurants, 3X on all other eligible purchases.
Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status with your Hilton Honors Business Card.
Earn a Weekend Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
Earn another Weekend Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend an additional $45,000 in purchases on your Card in the same calendar year.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
6X
Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program.
3X
3 points at U.S. restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines.
2X
2 points on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
75,000 points
Earn 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 3 months.
Annual fee
$450
Regular APR
17.24%-26.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Cardholders receive complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status (enrollment required) with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, boosting your points value by 25 percent on eligible purchases. Meanwhile, you'll earn generous rewards rates for eligible Marriott Bonvoy purchases, at U.S. restaurants, on flights booked directly with airlines and more.
There’s a free award night offer on your account renewal month with this card every year with a redemption level of up to 50,000 points.
This card offers up to $300 in statement credit each year to cover eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program (including spa treatments and room service).
Cons
The annual fee with this card is significant at $450.
The barrier of entry is fairly high to be approved for this card, even for those with good credit.
Earn 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 3 months.
Each Card renewal year, get up to $300 in statement credits for purchases on the Card at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy™ . Effective 9/22/22, the $300 Marriott Bonvoy statement credit benefit will no longer be available. It will be replaced with a NEW benefit of up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $25 per month) for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide.
Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program. 3 points at U.S. restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2 points on all other eligible purchases.
Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at a participating hotel. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Enjoy unlimited airport lounge visits when you enroll in Priority Pass™ Select membership.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
6x
6x points at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program.
4x
4x points at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
2x
2x points on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
75,000 points
Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$125
Regular APR
17.24% - 26.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Does your small business spend a lot on things like hotel stays and business lunches? With a 6X rewards rate at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program, the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card can help you get maximum value out of eligible business and travel purchases.
Points earned with this card are transferable to over 40 travel partners.
Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your card renewal month.
Cons
The $125 annual fee could be fairly high for people who don’t travel frequently.
You may have to strategize a bit to maximize rewards due to the 24 possible rates for an award night.
Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
6x points at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program.
4x points at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping. 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at a participating hotel. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Enjoy complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status with your Card. Plus, earn Gold Elite status after making $35,000 in eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5X
Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
1.25X
Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day.
Intro offer
20,000 miles
Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
15.24% - 25.24% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5X
Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com
1.5X
Earn 1.5X points on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year
1X
1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Intro offer
120,000 points
Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$695
Regular APR
15.74% - 23.74% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Business travelers seeking a travel oasis will love the many luxury hotel and airport perks that come with the Business Platinum card. And though its annual fee may be intimidating, this card’s vast list of annual travel and business expense credits and wide bonus category coverage should give you plenty of room to rack up rewards.
Read our full Amex Business Platinum review.
Pros
Unlike many travel-centric business cards, this card’s rewards and perks also cover a variety of everyday business expenses, making it valuable both on the go and in the office.
Carries an intro APR offer on eligible Pay Over Time purchases — a rare but valuable benefit if you need to free up cash flow or chip away at large business expenses while minimizing interest charges.
Cons
The $695 annual fee is hard to justify if you don’t take advantage of the card’s premier hotel and airline credits.
Although you aren’t chained to a specific hotel brand, you must book through the American Express travel portal to earn the most points and maximize their redemption value.
Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Plus, 0% Intro APR for 12 months from the date of the account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time. After that, your APR will be 15.74% to 23.74% based on your credit worthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Earn 1.5X points on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
Unlock over $1,000 in value per year for statement credits on select purchases with your Card, including up to $400 with Dell Technologies, up to $360 with Indeed, up to $150 with Adobe and up to $120 on wireless telephone purchases. Enrollment required.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year toward baggage fees and more at one qualifying airline.
$189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more lounge location options than any other credit card on the market as of 9/2021.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
See if you're pre‐approved for this card with
CardMatch™
Rewards rate
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Intro offer
Earn 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$695
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Perhaps no other card packs in as many high-value perks as the Amex Platinum. Its complimentary hotel privileges and credits for select stays ensure you’ll travel in comfort and have a leg up on the daunting annual fee. Frequent Marriott and Hilton guests will also reap extra value via automatic Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite and Hilton Honors Gold status — benefits that typically require dozens of stays or a premium co-branded hotel card.
Read our full The Platinum Card from American Express review.
Pros
If you spot a good deal outside the Amex travel portal, you can transfer points to Amex’s three hotel partner programs: Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy and Radisson Rewards.
You can enjoy possibly the most comprehensive set of airport lounge access privileges available with a credit card, as well as a variety of other airport perks to expedite your journey.
Cons
Its bonus category coverage is narrower than rival cards’ — limited to flights, hotels and rental cars booked through American Express Travel — which can make it hard to justify the $695 annual fee if a cardholder can’t maximize the card’s other perks.
Aside from its hotel and travel credits, many of the card’s perks may be hard to use since they’re scattered across niche partners like Walmart+ and SoulCycle.
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. And if you fly, you can receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year after you select a qualifying airline and incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.
American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
$300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $25 back each month on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required.
$189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership. CLEAR® is available at select airports and stadiums.
$695 annual fee.
Terms Apply.
additional features
Purchase intro APR
N/A
Balance transfer intro APR
N/A
The information about the IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card, the Radisson Rewards Premier Visa Signature Card, The World of Hyatt Credit Card, and the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
12X points on Hilton hotel and resort purchases 6X points on select business (U.S. gas stations, U.S. cellphone service providers and U.S. shipping purchases) and travel purchases (U.S. restaurants, airfare booked through Amex Travel and select car rentals) 3X points on all other purchases
5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com 1.5X points on eligible purchases in key business categories and on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year) 1X points on all other purchases
5X points on up to $500,000 of directly-booked flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel per calendar year 2X points on prepaid car rentals through American Express Travel
Hilton Honors American Express Card: Best no annual fee hotel card
What we love about the Hilton Honors Amex: It offers a welcome bonus of 100,000 points after you spend $1,000 in your first three months of Card Membership — one of the most generous offers out there for a rewards card that charges no annual fee. Plus, you can earn up to $100 in statement credits on eligible purchases made on the card at any of the Hilton family hotels in the first 12 months of membership. It also includes annual, well-rounded rewards that are difficult to find on cards with no annual fee.
Who this card is good for: Loyal Hilton customers who want exceptional rewards rates in a variety of purchase categories, all with no annual fee.
Alternatives: This card lacks elite benefits, which is a common tradeoff for no-annual-fee hotel cards. If luxury is alluring for you, consider the card’s next iteration that comes with a $95 annual fee, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass credit card.
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card: Best for business travel
What we love about the Hilton Honors Amex Business Card: You’ll earn 12X points on purchases made through Hilton hotels and resorts—one of the most generous rewards rates you’ll find anywhere. Plus, new cardholders can offset the first-year cost by earning the welcome offer, plus the long-term value of rewards on hotel purchases makes it worth it.
Who this card is good for: Business travelers who want to earn Hilton perks and stellar rewards rates in categories beyond travel, including U.S. restaurants and U.S. gas stations.
Alternatives: If you can spare the $695 annual fee, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a great alternative for business owners who want to earn rewards on common business expenses alongside hotel and airline bookings. The card not only carries some of the most valuable business card rewards out there, but also several luxuryperks, including the same complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status you’d get with the Hilton Honors Amex Business card.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card: Best for loyal Marriott customers
What we love about the Bonvoy Brilliant Amex: Unlike some co-branded hotel cards, this one has rewards categories that extend to eligible airfare purchases (3X points on airfare booked directly through airlines). Plus, cardholders get a bevy of high-caliber benefits, including complimentary Gold Elite status, premium airport lounge access and enough value via the card’s annual credits and Free Night Award to offset the $450 annual fee.
Who this card is good for: Travelers who want premier benefits for staying at Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis, plus solid rewards rates in a variety of purchase categories.
Alternatives: If you’re looking to avoid high annual fees but still want to reap the benefits of rewards, consider the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. The card earns slightly fewer points per dollar spent but still comes with elite membership benefits and a much lower annual fee.
Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card: Best for business rewards
What we love about the Bonvoy Business Amex: Not only does it have a great welcome offer, but you can also get automatic Silver Elite status with the card, upon enrollment. Its everyday 4X rewards categories and solid travel benefits also complement your Marriott rewards, making it easier to recoup the $125 annual fee.
Who this card is good for: Business travelers who stay at Marriott on their frequent business trips and want a card that rewards them for purchases across an array of categories.
Alternatives: Business owners who don’t spend a lot of money in the 4X categories won’t receive the maximum rewards value. Opting for a business hotel card that earns generously on hotel stays would be a strong alternative. Consider the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card for an option with a lower annual fee and the same rewards rate on nightly stays without sacrificing Silver Elite status.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: Best for flexibility
What we love about the Capital One Venture: The VentureOne card’s flexibility makes for a streamlined travel rewards experience from beginning to end. Not only can you earn unlimited 1.25X miles on all purchases (and 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel), but the card’s travel portal is also much more flexible than competing cards’. Its AI-powered pricing can help you find the best deals and you can cancel bookings at any time, for any reason. Even better, you can always redeem your miles at a value of 1 cent apiece for a statement credit to cover a wide range of eligible travel purchases you’ve made in the past 90 days instead.
Who this card is good for: Frequent flyers who want to earn flexible rewards at a flat rate on all purchases—travel-related or not. Cardholders who aren’t attached to a single hotel chain and want a variety of options for redeeming travel rewards can also squeeze plenty of value from Capital One’s travel portal and its slew of transfer partners.
Alternatives: If you’re loyal to one hotel brand, you might benefit more from the perks and elite statuses potentially available on co-branded rewards cards like those offered in either the Hilton Honors Program or the Marriott Bonvoy Program.
The Business Platinum Card from American Express: Best for luxury business travel
What we love about the Amex Business Platinum: It provides perhaps the richest pool of rewards and benefits for frequent business travelers who don’t always book with a specific hotel brand. Along with its 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel, the card offers one of the best rates available in many popular business spending categories and a slew of annual hotel and travel reimbursements that can easily justify its annual fee.
Who this card is good for: Luxury-minded business owners and employees who spend a lot of time traveling and are looking for a more comfortable experience at both airports and hotels — especially fans of Marriott and Hilton (you’ll enjoy complimentary elite status with both brands).
Alternatives: Amex’s other business cards don’t carry nearly as many hotel rewards and perks as the Business Platinum, and it can be difficult to find a luxury business card with strong hotel rewards that isn’t tied to a particular hotel brand. The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card may be a good alternative thanks to its 3X points on travel purchases, including hotels (on up to $150,000 per year, then 1X points) and a range of other accommodations like timeshares and discount travel site stays.
The Platinum Card from American Express: Best for premium benefits
What we love about The Platinum Card from Amex: Complimentary gold-level status (enrollment required) with not one but two hotel brands: Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status and Hilton Honors Gold Status.
Who this card is good for: Travelers who want premium benefits that they’re unlikely to find anywhere else and aren’t hesitant about paying a steep annual fee ($695) to get them. Cardholders who can take advantage of luxury perks like the card’s premium hotel program credits and privileges, annual travel reimbursements and comprehensive airport lounge access should have no problem getting their money’s worth.
Alternatives: If you aren’t excited by the Amex Platinum’s luxury perks and don’t want to fork up a nearly $700 annual fee, you might be better off with a card that costs less. In that case, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® may be a more practical option. It comes with a lower $550 annual fee and can still provide plenty of perhaps more flexible rewards and benefits, especially considering your points are worth 50 percent more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card: Best hotel welcome offer
What we love about the Hilton Honors Amex Surpass: The card’s welcome offer of 130,000 points after spending $2,000 in your first three months of card membership is a solid payday for loyal guests. However, the cherry on top is the up to $130 in statement credits you can earn on eligible purchases at any of the Hilton family hotels during your first 12 months. Together, these rewards give the Surpass card one of the highest-value welcome offers available on a hotel card.
Who this card is good for: Frequent Hilton guests looking to maximize short- and long-term value via a hefty welcome bonus and solid rewards rate on everyday spending.
Alternatives: This card is a great mixture of both affordability and rewards value, but cardholders who don’t prefer Hilton hotels don’t stand to benefit from a Hilton loyalty rewards card. Consider competitor options like the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless or a general-purpose travel card that rewards you for purchases outside hotel stays.
A hotel credit card rewards its users for brand loyalty. You earn points in the hotel chain’s loyalty program by using the card to book rooms at the chain’s hotels or resorts and, in some cases, by making eligible non-travel purchases. Other incentives may include free nights, free room upgrades and access to the hotel chain’s travel partners.
How do hotel credit cards work?
There are two types of hotel credit cards. One is a co-branded hotel card that works through a partnership between an issuer and a hotel brand. These cards usually include enrollment in the hotel’s loyalty program. The other type of hotel credit card is a general travel rewards card that might offer hotel-related perks but isn’t associated exclusively with a single chain.
You earn points with a hotel credit card each time you use it to make a rewards-eligible purchase. Depending on the card, these purchases could include hotel stays, airfare, meals at restaurants or everyday purchases like groceries and gas.
Bankrate insight
Every free night you earn with a hotel credit card could be worth more than $100. STR, a data analytics company serving the hospitality industry, estimates the average daily rate for a U.S. hotel room at $106.
Why get a hotel credit card?
A hotel credit card can potentially offer a lot of value year-round if you travel frequently or want to enjoy the benefits of an elite status you may not otherwise qualify for. For instance, some hotel loyalty programs offer complimentary membership status to cardholders along with boosted rewards rates and room discounts—sometimes for no annual fee. Plus, you may also benefit from earning points on non-travel purchases like dining, groceries or gas. However, you will still earn the most points for hotel room bookings.
Are hotel credit cards with no annual fees the best choice?
Hotel credit cards with no annual fee carry some obvious advantages over not having one at all or opting for one that costs anywhere from $95 to $450. You can qualify for room rate discounts, elite status, and boosted rewards just for holding some cards and you’ll have the added benefit of using points to book rooms.
Whether you opt for a hotel rewards card with an annual fee or a no-annual-fee card will likely depend on how frequently you stay at hotels and whether you can offset the annual fee with your rewards or card benefits. While a no-annual-fee card may be easier to manage, a premium hotel card makes sense if you stay with a particular hotel brand frequently enough that the card’s higher rewards rates and more valuable perks will make up for its annual fee.
For instance, if two hotel cards offer the same rewards rate at the same hotel chain but one of the cards carries a free reward night each year that’s worth up to $300 worth of points, the premium card may be the better choice if its annual fee is less than $300. On the other hand, a no annual fee card would likely be better if you’re not looking for perks with a specific hotel brand or you don’t stay at hotels frequently enough for your rewards spending and privileges to recoup an annual fee.
Pros and cons of hotel credit cards
Whether or not a hotel card is the right choice for you depends on your travel habits, budget and financial priorities. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons before choosing a particular card.
Pros
Exclusive sign-up bonuses: Hotel cards regularly offer lucrative welcome offers or sign-up bonuses for new cardholders who meet the spending requirements within a specified period, usually three months.
Earn extra points: A co-branded hotel card will likely offer a higher-than-average rewards rate compared with a general travel card. You could earn up to 10 points per dollar spent on eligible hotel purchases, and in some cases more.
Special perks and status: Late check-in, complimentary breakfast and room upgrades are fairly standard across co-branded hotel credit cards. Many hotel cards also offer expedited pathways to elite status, which comes with even more perks.
Convenient bookings: A hotel credit card offers a convenient way to book your hotel stays and earn hotel-specific rewards all at the same time.
Cons
Complicated redemption process: To get the most value from your card, you might have to navigate complicated rewards programs and redemption processes.
Low-value points: Although rewards rates are high with some co-branded hotel cards, the points are generally not worth as much as those earned with non-branded travel cards.
Strict use of points: Redeeming points for award night stays is generally the only option for getting full point value. The value can decline significantly when you transfer points to travel partners or redeem for merchandise.
Higher annual fees: Whether you opt for a co-branded hotel card or a general travel rewards card, you’ll most likely have to pay an annual fee of $95 or more if you’re looking for noteworthy perks at hotels.
Who should get a hotel credit card?
As a niche product, hotel credit cards appeal to fairly specific types of consumers. But anyone who stays at least a few times annually at a hotel may benefit from a hotel card.
Here are some of the ways that you might fit the profile:
Regular hotel guests will benefit the most, of course, but you don’t have to be constantly on the road. A hotel card could be worthwhile with even a comparatively modest travel schedule, as long as you can earn enough rewards on other purchases or make the most of benefits like annual award nights enough to cover hotel costs without an annual fee gnawing through most of your card’s value.
If you regularly stay at the same hotel chain, a card that earns points with every eligible purchase offers an effective way to reward yourself for your brand loyalty. Additionally, some co-branded cards earn rewards at places like restaurants and at grocery stores. Consider consolidating your rewards strategy with a hotel card if travel is a priority.
The chance to earn free nights and perks like complimentary breakfast and room upgrades are sure to appeal to travelers always on the lookout for value. Some hotel loyalty cards may also qualify you for room discounts and, if it’s an option with the card you hold, paying with a combination of points and cash can really cut down on your expenses.
Some of the top hotel credit cards include access to luxury hotel and resort collections where amenities include spas, wine tastings, executive clubs and more. You’ll find these experiences on top tier travel cards as well, so if you want to lean into luxury consider the potential offered by a card like The Platinum Card from American Express.
If you’re unsure which of these spending styles fit your financial and travel needs, consider checking out our spender type tool to help you determine which credit card can give you the most comfortable getaway.
Bankrate insight
Hotel credit cards commonly offer generous rewards rates, but you might be able to earn additional points outside the specified purchase categories as well. A number of hotels offer the opportunity to earn points on purchases with their partner companies, which typically include airlines and retailers. For example, the Hilton Honors program allows you to earn extra points by linking your account to cover participating partner merchant, restaurant and bar purchases — including Lyft rides.
How to choose the best hotel credit card for you
Wondering how to pick the best hotel credit card? The right hotel card for you will vary based on your travel habits and preferences. Follow these steps to help you in your search.
Evaluate how often you’ll stay at hotels. If you only travel once or twice per year, it may be a safe bet to rule out cards with high annual fees. If you stay at hotels frequently, all the perks and benefits that come with a hotel card may be worth it, such as extra free nights, complimentary elite status privileges or automatic accommodation upgrades. Take a close look at your travel habits and estimate the total value you can expect to get from different cards’ rewards and perks based on your spending habits. If a card carries an annual fee, be sure to factor that in to see which option will net the best overall value.
Choose your favorite hotel or hotel brand. Co-branded travel cards tend to partner with large national and international hotels brands. Most hotel credit cards carry the names of chains such as Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, IHG and Radisson. If your favorite hotel is a small regional brand or you prefer to stay at smaller hotels when you travel, you may be better off with a general travel credit card.
Remain conscious of points redemption. Using points when you travel can be tricky, especially when you’ve saved them up for a while and you want to ensure you get the most out of them. If you’re a traveler looking to maximize your points, check how much value you can get out of different redemption options to ensure you’re making the most of your hard-earned rewards. For example, your points may be worth less when you redeem for cash back, gift cards or merchandise instead of a hotel stay. Hotel bookings will generally be the best use of your rewards, but since many hotels use dynamic pricing systems, be sure to also consider when would be the best time to use your points. Your points may not be worth as much if you opt for a stay during peak travel season versus another time of the year. Checking to see if certain hotels’ redemption options or award-booking policies will be more valuable for you than others’ is a key step toward maximizing your hotel card.
Following these steps will help you find the best hotel credit card for you. The right card for you will align with your travel habits and elevate your travel experience by giving you benefits you can actually use.
Bankrate insight
There are three main ways to earn free nights at hotels outside redeeming your rewards: leaning into hotel loyalty programs, snagging sign-up bonuses and via a card’s annual award night perk. Many hotel credit cards offer cardholders a fast-track to elite status, at least one complimentary award night each year, or at least enough points in their welcome offers to qualify for free nights.
What cards offer complimentary elite status with hotel loyalty programs?
Complimentary elite status with a hotel loyalty program or a fast-track to elite status is a valuable feature on several hotel rewards cards. After all, kickstarting your elite status journey could give you a boost toward incredibly valuable perks like improved rewards rates, exclusive upgrade privileges, extra award nights or other discounts.
Qualifying for elite loyalty status usually centers around frequent card use, but a credit card might carve you a shortcut toward elite status if it carries an automatic status offer. Popular cards that offer complimentary elite status by becoming a cardholder include:
Even the best hotel credit cards are only worth it when you take full advantage of the hotel rewards programs and associated perks. Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your card and the hotel reward points you’ll earn:
Make sure you’re a member of the associated hotel rewards program. They’re free to sign up for and will provide you with extra resources on how to get the most out of your booking. As both a loyalty member and co-branded cardholder, you’ll earn extra points on top of your card’s rewards rate. For instance, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant cards carry 6X points on eligible Marriott Bonvoy hotel purchases, but the Bonvoy loyalty program and automatic Gold Elite status actually boosts your Marriott hotel rewards rate to 18.5X points. It may also be beneficial to enroll in hotel’s loyalty program even if you don’t have a matching credit card so you don’t leave rewards on the table.
Pair multiple credit cards. Your new hotel credit card will give you big point totals for hotel purchases, but not necessarily on everything else. Use your hotel card alongside high-earning cash back cards, other travel cards or one that allows you to transfer points to your preferred hotel chain.
Book directly through the hotel or issuer’s shopping portal. You usually glean extra value by booking your room through the hotel’s website or an issuer’s shopping portal, like Chase Ultimate Rewards. Booking through third-party sites may not qualify for the expected rewards rate.
Use your rewards. While it can be tempting to hoard points for a huge payout, it may be smarter to redeem more frequently. Award night pricing may change often, especially for hotels that have dynamic pricing, so you may get more value from your rewards by spending them on stays throughout than by saving them all for a trip during peak vacation season, when your points carry the least value.
How we chose our list of best hotel cards
Our credit card experts can help you find a top-rated hotel card to help you fund your next family vacation, business trip or overseas getaway. The best hotel rewards card is one that accommodates your personal travel needs. There’s not much reason to accrue Hilton Honors points if you frequently find yourself in Starwood-Marriott locations. Our 5-star scoring system takes a host of elements into account, but for hotel credit cards, we’ve emphasized:
Rewards value and redemption flexibility
Some cards offer the capability to transfer hotel points to different chains while other cards have their rewards tied to specific loyalty programs. The value of your rewards often varies, depending on the redemption option you chose. We considered cards that have a number or flexible redemption options, but also factored in how much rewards might be worth depending on which option you choose.
Annual fee
A lot of high-end hotel rewards cards charge fees, but offset this cost with luxury benefits like free room upgrades and trip insurance. We examined each of these add-ons as we determined whether the annual fee is worth the cost.
Sign-up bonus
Sign-up bonuses offer an easy way to earn hotel points. Often, within three months, you can hit the spending requirement and quickly amass enough points to redeem for a free night. We compared each of these welcome bonuses as we determined which cards deliver the strongest offerings on the market.
Learn more about hotel cards and loyalty programs
When it comes to hotel credit cards and travel tips, Bankrate has a huge collection of resources at your service:
Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email, find us on Facebook, or Tweet us @Bankrate.
Frequently asked questions about hotel credit cards
Hotel rewards points don't usually expire if your account is open, active and in good standing, although terms and conditions vary by program. The reason for expired points is frequently the consumer, not the company.
Here's a chart with rewards expiration policies for several popular hotel loyalty programs:
Hotel Rewards Program
Rewards Expiration Policy
Hilton Honors
Rewards expire after 24 months of no qualifying activity (24-month expiration period doesn’t begin until Dec. 31, 2022; rewards won’t expire until then)
IHG Rewards Club
Rewards expire after 12 months of no qualifying activity
World of Hyatt
Rewards expire after 24 months of no qualifying activity
Marriott Bonvoy
Rewards expire after 24 months of no qualifying activity
Wyndham Rewards
Rewards expire after 18 months of no qualifying activity, and after 48 months regardless of activity
Radisson Rewards
Rewards expire after 24 months of no qualifying activity
Best Western Rewards
Rewards don't expire
Keep in mind that "qualifying activity" is pretty broad. While the exact terms vary from program to program, usually any sort of account activity will keep your account active — including earning points, redeeming points and transferring points.
Reimbursement for canceling a hotel reservation depends largely on:
The hotel chain
Which card you booked with (or if you booked with rewards)
The advance notice you're giving before cancellation
The circumstances of your cancellation
It may be difficult to get your money back if you cancel your accommodations at the last moment simply because you changed your mind. However, should you need to cancel your trip due to circumstances beyond your control, you may have a better chance of being reimbursed if your hotel card offers trip cancellation or interruption insurance. For example, the Amex Platinum Card provides up to $10,000 in coverage per trip (up to $20,000 per card, per consecutive 12-month period) in cases of inclement weather, injury, sickness or other eligible circumstances that force you to cancel or interrupt your trip.
Sometimes, but transfer options aren't flexible. Several reward programs allow you to transfer points to partner airlines or redeem for travel, gift cards and merchandise, but you lose a lot of value in translation.
Because of the way travel rewards work, you may find more reward redemption flexibility outside hotels with general travel cards. Non-branded, general-purpose travel cards also provide more robust perks like travel insurance.
If you prefer Airbnbs over hotels, it's difficult to find a starting point earning rewards on stays. Thankfully, there are options for Airbnb guests to earn rewards, and general travel credit cards can provide options.
As a Bankrate credit cards editor, Ashley Parks is fascinated by the ways people can make credit cards work for them when armed with the right knowledge.
Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. Previously, she led insurance content at Reviews.com and worked as the loans editor at The Simple Dollar.
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