The UN World Tourism Barometer estimates that 790 million tourists traveled internationally in the first seven months of 2024, marking an 11% increase over 2023. To attract this growing customer base, especially repeat travelers, many hotels have developed loyalty programs. For frequent travelers, these programs offer substantial savings and valuable perks. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to identify the right loyalty program that best meets an individual’s travel needs and goals.
Read on as we help you zero-in on the right hotel loyalty program that saves money while offering a memorable travel experience.
Understand Your Travel Patterns
Before diving into loyalty programs, understand your travel habits. Different hotel brands and loyalty programs cater to various types of travelers, so understanding your needs helps narrow down options. Ask yourself:
- Do you mostly travel for business or leisure?
- How often do you stay in hotels each year?
- Do you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between?
- Are there specific destinations you frequently visit?
Based on these answers, look for a program that offers maximum benefits. For example, if you often stay in budget hotels for short business trips, a program offering points for each stay rather than spending may suit you better. Conversely, if you prefer luxury hotels and travel extensively, a loyalty program with more upscale properties could be a better fit.
Evaluate Points Earning and Redemption Policies
Every loyalty program has its own system for earning and redeeming points. Typically, points are accrued based on dollars spent, but some programs reward guests per night or stay. In general, pay attention to the following aspects while choosing a loyalty program.
Point Value
Not all points are created equal. A point’s value can vary depending on the program and how it’s redeemed. Look for programs with flexible redemption options that can yield higher point values.
Redemption Flexibility
Check if points can be redeemed for free nights, discounts, or other perks. Some programs offer free nights only during off-peak times or require large point balances for desirable locations. This is why look for a program that provides practical and convenient redemptions.
Also, note that some programs have points that expire if there’s no account activity within a set time. Keep this factor in mind as well.
Go Beyond Points
While points and discounts are great, look for hotel loyalty programs that also offer extra perks. Some common perks can be:
- Room upgrades.
- Free Wi-Fi
- Late check-out
- Early check-in
- Complimentary breakfast
While these perks are nice to have, prioritize those that match your travel habits. For example, if you rarely check out late, then that benefit might not sway your decision.
Compare Partner Benefits and Alliances
Many hotel loyalty programs partner with airlines, car rental companies, and other travel-related services. These partnerships allow you to earn and redeem points across various platforms, expanding the value of the loyalty program.
When a program has strong partnerships with services you frequently use, it can stretch your travel budget even further.
Assess Membership Tiers and Elite Status
Most hotel loyalty programs feature tiered memberships. As members reach higher tiers through stays or spending, they gain access to increasingly valuable benefits. If you’re trying a loyalty program for the first time, make sure the entry-level benefits still offer tangible value. Look for perks like free Wi-Fi and occasional discounts that are accessible from the start. This is particularly important if you don’t travel enough to reach elite status.
Evaluate whether the effort needed to reach elite status matches your travel frequency. For frequent travelers, elite benefits can be worth the commitment, but for occasional travelers, a lower-tier program that still offers solid perks might be more beneficial.
Look for Promotions and Sign-Up Bonuses
Generous sign-up bonuses are common among programs as they give new members a quick boost in points. However, these promotions come with specific terms like completing a certain number of stays within a limited period, so make sure the requirements align with your travel plans.
Programs also run seasonal or targeted promotions, like double points on stays during specific months. Keeping an eye on these promotions can increase the value of loyalty programs.
Think Long-Term and Reevaluate Regularly
As travel patterns change, so do loyalty program preferences. A program that fitted well a year ago may no longer be relevant today. Every few months, reassess whether your chosen program is still serving you well, and keep an eye on industry changes. Some programs periodically adjust their point structures or add new benefits, which could impact their value.
In all, choosing the right hotel loyalty program involves more than picking the one with the best sign-up bonus. Consider your travel habits, evaluate point policies, compare perks, and assess membership tiers to find a program that not only helps save money but also adds value to your travel experiences. Take your time to research and select a loyalty program that aligns with your travel goals, and you’ll be well on your way to maximizing savings on your hotel stays.