IHG One Rewards Premier
Superpower: Annual free night that can outweigh the annual fee
This card earns its place almost entirely from the annual free night certificate. One solid hotel stay each year can easily exceed the annual fee, turning the rest of the benefits into bonus value.
On top of that, it includes automatic IHG Platinum Elite status and strong earning at IHG properties, which adds up if you stay with the brand even occasionally.
Why I use it:
If I’m staying at an IHG property once a year, this card more than pays for itself.
My Personal Chase Hotel Credit Cards
I combine Chase Ultimate reward points with their co-branded hotel cards to earn free hotel nights throughout the year.
This page links to the current Chase hotel card offers I reference across my site. Offers change, so I keep them updated here.
World of Hyatt
Superpower: Exceptional value per point and a reliable free night
This is one of the most consistently valuable hotel cards available. Hyatt points tend to stretch further than most hotel programs, and the annual free night certificate alone can justify keeping the card long-term.
Add in automatic Discoverist status and strong earning on Hyatt stays, and it becomes a simple way to lock in high-quality hotel value without chasing luxury perks.
Why I use it:
Hyatt points regularly deliver outsized value, and the free night makes this card an easy long-term keeper.