Hotel Points: Free Nights and Better Stays
Hotel points are the easiest part of points and miles for many travelers. Hotel loyalty programs are free, the big chains have properties almost everywhere, and a free night saves real money on the most expensive part of many trips.
You earn points on paid stays booked directly, and often through the chain's credit cards and partners. You redeem them for free nights, sometimes for a mix of points and cash. Award prices usually depend on the hotel and the date; popular resorts on busy weekends cost far more points than city hotels on quiet nights.
Perks Worth Knowing
Elite status
Earned by nights or spending; perks can include late checkout, upgrades and lounge access, depending on the program and level.
Points plus cash
Some programs let you combine points and money for a night when you are short.
Longer award stays
Some programs give extra value on multi-night award bookings. Read the rules.
Member rates
Members sometimes see lower rates when booking directly, even before points.
When to Use Hotel Points, and When Not To
Hotel points shine in expensive places and on busy dates, when cash rates soar. They are weaker for cheap stays, where paying cash and earning points may make more sense. Compare the cash rate on Rooms Cheap before you redeem.
- Book directly when you want to earn points and use elite perks.
- Check the cancellation rules on award nights; they differ from paid rates.
- Ask about resort or destination fees, which can apply even on award stays.
Choosing a hotel program
The best hotel program is the one with hotels where you actually go. Before committing, look at where each chain has properties in the cities, beach towns and road-trip stops you visit most, and at the range of brands — from simple highway hotels to resorts — so you can earn on business trips and spend on vacations. Families should check room types too: suites and connecting rooms are not always bookable with points. If you travel only a few nights a year, a single program will build a useful balance far faster than several.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need status to use hotel points?
No. Anyone with enough points can book an award night where rooms are available. Elite status adds perks such as late checkout or upgrades but is not required to redeem.
Do I earn points on award stays?
Usually not on the room itself, though programs differ. Paid stays booked directly with the hotel are the main way to earn.
Are hotel points worth more than airline miles?
They are different currencies with different prices, so the numbers are not comparable. What matters is the cash value of the room or seat you would book with them and whether that trip is one you would take anyway.
Do third-party bookings earn hotel points?
Often not. Many hotel programs award points and honor elite perks only on bookings made directly with the hotel or through qualifying channels. Check before you book.
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