What a Free Hotel Night Really Costs in Points: Comparing Rewards Programs
Summary
The number of points needed for a free hotel night depends on the program, the hotel’s cash price and how the program sets award prices. The article says travelers should compare point value, earning options, hotel availability and redemption rules rather than focus only on their point balance.Key Facts
- Kiwii founder and CEO Steve Goeke told Newsweek that Kiwii values Hyatt points at 1.7 cents each and other major hotel-program points at less than 1 cent each.
- Goeke said Hilton’s 10 points per dollar can appear more generous than Hyatt’s 5 points per dollar, even though Hilton points are worth about half as much.
- Point.me’s Jimmy Yoon said travelers can earn hotel points through options such as credit card spending, dining, promotions and shopping, not just hotel stays.
- The article says Hyatt and Wyndham publish fixed award prices, while Marriott, Hilton and IHG adjust award prices based on demand.
- Demand, room availability and season can affect how many points a hotel night costs.
- Goeke described Hyatt’s hotel network as about 1,300 properties, while Wyndham and Choice have thousands of properties, mostly in the midscale range.
- The article says hotel rewards programs tend to benefit frequent travelers more than occasional travelers.
- The article advises comparing the cash price of a night with its points price before redeeming.
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