My favorite hotel cards
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When it comes to making the most of my hotel stays, free night certificates are a huge part of my strategy. They allow me to enjoy luxurious getaways without worrying about the cost, especially for those special trips like anniversaries. Here’s why the Hilton Honors Surpass, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant, Marriott Bonvoy Business, and IHG Rewards Premier cards are my top picks for maximizing value from hotel credit cards, with a special focus on the unbeatable value of these certificates.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card offers an incredible free night certificate that stands out because there's no cap on the value of the property where you can use it. This means you can stay at ultra-luxurious properties like the Conrad Bora Bora without spending a dime on the room. Whether you’re planning a lavish anniversary getaway or just want to experience a dream destination, this card makes it possible without the worry of point limitations. Plus, with complimentary Hilton Gold status, you’ll enjoy perks like room upgrades and free breakfast on every stay.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card comes with an annual free night certificate, which can be redeemed at properties costing up to 85,000 points per night. Marriott has a vast network of properties, so whether you’re planning a city break or a relaxing resort stay, this certificate can cover some truly fantastic options. Additionally, with automatic Platinum Elite status, you get benefits like room upgrades, late checkout, and free breakfast, making your stay even more enjoyable. The $300 statement credit for dining at restaurants worldwide is the cherry on top, helping offset the card’s annual fee and making every stay more rewarding.
Marriott Bonvoy Business™ Card from American Express®
Marriott Bonvoy Business™ Card from American Express® is one of my favorite hotel credit cards, especially for those balancing both business and leisure travel. It provides an excellent free night certificate that can be used at properties up to 35,000 points per night, perfect for a relaxing family getaway or a business trip. What sets it apart is the ability to earn 4x points on purchases at U.S. restaurants, gas stations, wireless telephone services, and shipping, making it versatile for everyday spending. The fact that you also receive 15 elite night credits each year is a huge perk that brings you closer to enjoying Marriott’s Platinum status benefits like upgrades and late checkouts.
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card rounds out my list of favorites, thanks to its flexible free night certificate, which can now be topped off with points to book higher-value properties. This flexibility means you can book stays at some of IHG’s more luxurious locations, making it easier to use your certificate for a special trip. With automatic Platinum Elite status, you’ll enjoy perks like room upgrades and extended checkouts, making every stay feel like a VIP experience. The card also offers a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit, adding extra value for frequent travelers.
Final Thoughts
These four best hotel credit cards are my go-tos because they offer unmatched value through their free night certificates. Hilton Honors Surpass takes the crown for me because of the unlimited potential with their certificate, but each of these cards offers something unique that makes them indispensable in my travel strategy. Whether you’re saving for a luxurious anniversary trip or just want to maximize your points for family vacations, these cards have you covered.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.
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Advertiser Disclosure: The Rewards Mom has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Rewards Mom and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
