How Hotel Award Pricing Works
Unlike airlines with their complex routing rules, hotel redemptions are straightforward: pick a hotel, check the points price, book if it makes sense.
Most hotel programs have moved to dynamic pricing, meaning points required vary based on demand. A hotel might cost 25,000 points on a Tuesday and 50,000 on New Year's Eve.
The Major Hotel Programs
World of Hyatt
Best for: Consistent high value
Hyatt points are widely considered the most valuable hotel currency. Their properties are generally upscale, and points often get 2+ cents per point value.
- Transfer partner: Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Typical value: 1.5-2.5 cents per point
- Sweet spot: Category 1-4 properties often offer great value
Marriott Bonvoy
Best for: Huge portfolio, flexibility
Marriott has the most properties worldwide. Point values are lower than Hyatt but you'll find options everywhere.
- Transfer partner: Chase, Amex (but usually not best use)
- Typical value: 0.7-1.2 cents per point
- Sweet spot: Off-peak pricing at premium properties
Hilton Honors
Best for: Easy earning, aspirational properties
Hilton points are easy to earn (often 5-10x on cards) but worth less per point. Great for luxury redemptions where cash prices are extreme.
- Transfer partner: Amex
- Typical value: 0.4-0.6 cents per point
- Sweet spot: High-end resorts where cash rates are $500+/night
IHG One Rewards
Best for: Budget-friendly redemptions
IHG includes Holiday Inn, InterContinental, and more. Good for everyday travel.
- Transfer partner: Chase (but rarely best use)
- Typical value: 0.5-0.7 cents per point
Finding Good Value
The Value Calculation
Cash price ÷ Points required = Cents per point
Example: $300 room ÷ 20,000 points = 1.5 cents per point
When Hotel Points Shine
- High-demand dates: When cash prices spike, points often stay reasonable
- Luxury properties: $600/night hotels for 25,000 points = great value
- Long stays: Some programs offer 5th night free on awards
When to Pay Cash Instead
- Budget hotels where cash is $80/night
- When earning status matters more than saving money
- Low points value (under 0.5 cents per point)
Chase points transfer to Hyatt 1:1. A Park Hyatt that costs $800/night might be available for 30,000 points—that's 2.7 cents per point value. This is why Hyatt is often recommended as the best hotel transfer partner.
Hotel Award Tips
- Check cash price first: Make sure points actually save money
- Look for off-peak: Many programs have lower prices on less popular dates
- Consider location: Expensive cities (NYC, Tokyo, London) often offer better points value
- Book refundable: Most hotel awards can be cancelled, giving you flexibility
- Fifth night free: Marriott and Hilton offer this on award stays
Key Takeaways
- Hyatt consistently offers the best value for hotel points
- Always calculate cents per point before booking
- Hotel points shine for luxury properties and peak dates
- Pay cash for budget hotels where points value is poor
- Fifth night free can boost value on longer stays