Hotel Credit Cards
Hotel branded credit cards are a very specific type of credit card.
They generally should not be your very first travel credit card, because they are tied to one point and one brand, but they can be fantastic ways to enhance your relationship with a particular hotel brand and earn additional benefits like elite status and free nights.
In general, you want to start with Business Credit cards first if eligibile (and this page will explain how your small side hustle may qualify you for those bigger business credit cards bonuses) followed by general travel rewards-earning credit cards.
Assuming you are at the point that you are ready for a hotel credit card, here are things to look for:
Elite Status with Hotel Credit Cards
Some cards offer status outright or offer nights towards annual qualifications. For example, The World of Hyatt Credit Card offers automatic Discoverist status and 5 elite nights credited each calendar year as well as the ability to earn 2 elite nights for every $5,000 in purchases.
The Hilton Honors Surpass Card from American Express and Hilton Honors American Express Business Card both confer automatic Hilton Gold Status.
The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card and Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card will both get you 15 elite Marriott nights each year – good for Silver status and requiring just 10 more for Gold or 35 more for Platinum.
The IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card offers instant latinum status with IHG.
And the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card offers included Gold status with Platinum status granted at $75,000 in annual spend. The Hilton Aspire, with a hefty annual fee, grants top tier Hilton Diamond status.
Free Hotel Nights with Hotel Credit Cards
Each year, at renewal, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card and Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card will grant you one free night worth up to 35,000 Marriott points. The IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card also comes with a free night and the The World of Hyatt Credit Card grants one free Category 1-4 night each year as well.
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card offers a free night up to 50,000 points to help offset its large annual fee.
We base our ratings below on the value of the points of each card multiplied by the amount of the bonus. Pretty simple!
Advertiser Disclosure: Your Best Credit Cards has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Your Best Credit Cards and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Commissions do not affect or prioritize placement within our results and not all cards displayed earn us a commission. The editorial content on this page is not provided by any of the companies mentioned, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone.
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12 Cards Available:
Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card
Annual Fee:
$125
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$1,350
Annual Fee:
$125
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$1,350
Earn Marriott Bonvoy points with the Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card for all purchases.
Earn 6x for stays at Marriott; 4x at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, with U.S. shipping companies, and wireless telephone service from U.S. providers; and 2x everywhere else.
Get a free night award, silver status, and 15 elite credits annually. Terms apply.
If you stay at Marriott properties often, this card will offer a nice return on your spend on-property. The 15 elite nights annually can help you get to the next elite level. In fact, if you also have a personal Bonvoy credit card, you can earn 15 elite nights annually on each card - for a total of 30 per year.
Note: For the purposes of calculating your points and expected value, we assume all of your spend at "Hotels" will be at Marriott properties. You will only earn 2x points instead of 6x for spend at non-Marriott properties meaning that your Estimated Rewards Value would be lower than indicated.
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card
Annual Fee:
$199
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$1,200
Annual Fee:
$199
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$1,200
The World of Hyatt Business card gives you Discoverist status, 5 elite nights for every $10,000 you spend, and 2X points on a range of common business spending categories.
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card Earn Rate
- Earn a total of 2 points per $1 spent for the top three of eight spend categories you spend on each calendar quarter through Dec. 31, 2022; and the top two of eight spend categories in 2023 and beyond—with no cap.
- The qualifying spend categories include dining; airline tickets purchased directly with the airline; car rental agencies; local transit and commuting; gas stations; internet, cable and phone services; social media and search engine advertising; and shipping.
- Stays at World of Hyatt hotels earn 4X points per dollar.
- Fitness club and gym memberships earn 2X points per dollar.
- Everything else earns 1 point per dollar spent.
Click on Card Details for all the benefits of the World of Hyatt Business Credit Card.
Keep in mind that all points earned on a Chase Sapphire Reserve or Chase Sapphire Preferred can also be transferred to World of Hyatt at a 1 to 1 ratio.
NOTE: In calculating your rewards for this card, we are making the assumption that all Hotel spend entered is spent on Hyatt. If part of that spend is on other hotel chains, that spend will earn only 1x on this card, reducing the value of your rewards.
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card
Annual Fee:
$95
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$1,050
Annual Fee:
$95
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$1,050
Earn Marriott points for purchases. Earn 6x at Marriott and 2x everywhere else. Get a Free Night Award, 15 elite credits, and Silver status every year.
NOTE: In valuing your potential rewards from this card, we assumed that all spend from Hotels is at Marriott brands, which earn 6x points. If some of your hotel spend is at other hotel brands, your actual rewards will be somewhat lower.
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
Annual Fee:
$95
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$900
Annual Fee:
$95
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$900
Get Hilton Honors Gold Status, earn Free Weekend Night Awards based on annual spend, and earn Hilton Honors points on all purchases. Terms apply.
Also, you'll receive 10 free airport lounge visits each year with included free Priority Pass Select membership. (Enrollment required.)
Earn bonus points on select business and travel categories: gas stations, wireless telephone service, shipping, restaurants, flights booked direct, and car rentals booked direct.
Note: Estimated Rewards Values shown throughout this site assume your hotel spend will be at Hilton brand hotels and resorts. If you have additional hotel spend not associated with Hilton, your actual return will be lower.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card
Annual Fee:
$450
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$900
Annual Fee:
$450
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$900
With the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card, you'll receive Marriott Gold status and 15 elite nights credits every year.
This card earns Marriott Bonvoy points for purchases: 6x points at Marriott hotels, 3x points at U.S. restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines, and 2x points everywhere else.
The Bonvoy Brilliant card comes with an annual free night award (up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in value) at renewal and a $300 credit towards Marriott hotel and resort stays.
Terms apply.
NOTE: Our rewards calculator is assuming that your total entered in "Hotels" is spend at Marriott properties for the purposes of calculating this card's value to you. If part of your hotel spend is at non-Marriott properties, that spend will earn less than our estimate.
Hilton Honors Surpass® Credit Card
Annual Fee:
$95
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$900
Annual Fee:
$95
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$900
This mid-tier Hilton card comes with complimentary Hilton Gold status.
It will allow you to earn 12x Hilton Honors points at Hilton; 6x at US restaurants, US supermarkets, and US gas stations; and 3x everywhere else.
There is also an opportunity to earn Diamond status and a free weekend night via card spend.
American Express defines a supermarket as offering a wide variety of food and household products such as meat, fresh produce, dairy, canned and packaged goods, household cleaners, pharmacy products and pet supplies. (Superstores, convenience stores and warehouse clubs are NOT considered supermarkets.)
Note: Estimated Rewards Values shown throughout this site assume your hotel spend will be at Hilton brand hotels and resorts. If you have additional hotel spend not associated with Hilton, your actual return will be lower.
Hilton Honors Aspire® Credit Card
Annual Fee:
$450
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$750
Annual Fee:
$450
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$750
Get complimentary top-tier Hilton Diamond status, an annual $250 Hilton Resort credit, an annual $250 airline incidental fee credit, and a Free Weekend Night Award.
Also includes Priority Pass Select Airport Lounge Access for you and up to 2 guests per visit at no additional charge. (Enrollment required).
Earn Rate:
14x Hilton Honors points at Hiltons; 7x points on flights booked directly with airlines, car rentals booked direct, and US restaurants; and 3x points everywhere else.
Only in 2021 - Additional Hilton Aspire Benefits
- Bonus points earned through eligible purchases, if they post to the card member’s Hilton Honors account by Dec. 31, 2021, will be classified as base points and will count toward elite tier qualification and lifetime Diamond status.
- Unexpired and newly issued free weekend night certificates can temporarily be used on any night of the week.
- All newly issued Free Weekend Night Reward certificates issued after Jan 1, 2021 will be valid through December 31, 2022.
NOTE: For the purposes of calculating your expected rewards for this card, we are assuming that the spend you put in "Hotels" is all spent at Hilton portfolio hotels and resorts. If some is spent at other hotels, your actual rewards will be slightly lower.
Hilton Honors American Express Card
Annual Fee:
$0
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$650
Annual Fee:
$0
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$650
The no-annual fee Hilton Honors American Express Card comes with complimentary Hilton Silver status, earns bonus Hilton points on Hilton stays, US restaurants, US gas stations, and US supermarkets*. Terms apply.
*American Express defines a supermarket as offering a wide variety of food and household products such as meat, fresh produce, dairy, canned and packaged goods, household cleaners, pharmacy products and pet supplies. (Superstores, convenience stores and warehouse clubs are NOT considered supermarkets.)
NOTE: For the purposes of calculating your expected rewards, we are assuming that the spend you put in "Hotels" is all spent at Hilton portfolio hotels and resorts. If some is spent at other hotels, your actual rewards will be slightly lower.
IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card
Annual Fee:
$89
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$600
Annual Fee:
$89
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$600
The IHG credit card offers an annual anniversary free night, the fourth reward night free whenever you redeem for 4 or more nights, and Platinum status.
Earn 10x at IHG and 2x at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants. Also earn 10,000 bonus points when you spend $20,000 plus one additional purchase each card year.
NOTE: In calculating your rewards values for this card, we are making the assumption that all Hotel spend entered is spent on IHG. If part of that spend is on other hotels, that spend will earn only 1x on this card, reducing the value of your rewards.
Annual Fee:
$95
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$480
Annual Fee:
$95
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$480
Earn 4x World of Hyatt points at Hyatt, 2x at restaurants, airline tickets purchased directly, local transit and commuting, and fitness club and gym memberships.
The Hyatt card gives you a Category 1 - 4 night every card year at renewal and you can earn a second one with $15,000 spend. Additional benefits include automatic Discoverist status and 5 elite nights credited each calendar year as well as the ability to earn 2 elite nights for every $5,000 in purchases.
Keep in mind that all points earned on a Chase Sapphire Reserve or Chase Sapphire Preferred can also be transferred to World of Hyatt at a 1 to 1 ratio.
NOTE: In calculating your rewards for this card, we are making the assumption that all Hotel spend entered is spent on Hyatt. If part of that spend is on other hotel chains, that spend will earn only 1x on this card, reducing the value of your rewards.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card
Annual Fee:
$0
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$360
Annual Fee:
$0
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$360
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card is Chase's "no fee" entrant into the lineup of Marriott Bonvoy credit cards. It is similar to the Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card but with no annual fee and no annual free night certificate. It also earns considerably less points per dollar spent.
Note When calculating your Estimated Rewards Values, Hotel spend will be considered "spend at Marriott Bonvoy hotels" for the purposes of calculating your potential reward values (in this case, 3X). Hotel spend at other brands will not earn the bonus multiplier and would only earn 2X Bonvoy points (the rate for all other travel).
IHG Rewards Club Traveler Credit Card
Annual Fee:
$0
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This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$240
Annual Fee:
$0
Close X
This is the Estimated Value that you can expect to earn from the Bonus Offer this card. It represents an average value based on you knowing a bit about the rewards program and the best ways to use the points. The value is based on our miles and points values, explained in detail here. It is not the minimum possible value nor a guaranteed return. You can also click the calculator icon to see how the values for this card are calculated.$240
This is the no-fee version of the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card, with somewhat reduced benefits in exchange for not having an annual fee.
The IHG credit card is best suited for spend at IHG properties where it earns IHG points at the rate of 5x IHG points per dollar (vs. 10x IHG points with the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card).
This card still gives you the 4th Night Free on an Award Stay benefit which is one of the best reasons to have either IHG credit card, although you do give up many other features of the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card which does have an annual fee.
Chase Ink Preferred
Here’s how we calculated your Rewards Value:
Point Value X Multiplier = Rewards Value
X =
Here’s how we calculated your Bonus Value:
Point Value X Bonus = Bonus Value
X =
Meet Dave
Dave’s spent the last 15 years traveling the world in first class using his miles and points. After analyzing the unique credit card spending habits of thousands of MilesTalk readers over the years, he developed YourBestCreditCards.com.
