Credit card hotel loyalty program: What is it, how does it work?

A credit card hotel loyalty program is a partnership between a credit card issuing company and a hotel chain. Under this program, you get a co-branded credit card and earn reward points for spending on that card.

How does a credit card hotel loyalty program work?

You first apply for a specific credit card. For example, the Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card. You can earn loyalty points by staying at hotels in the hotel chain’s network or dining in the listed restaurants. Some programs also offer welcome bonuses that get credited after you meet a preset spending threshold in a specific period.

These loyalty points can then be used for things like:

• Free hotel stays or rooms at discounted prices
• Free of cost room upgrades
• Early check-ins and checkouts at hotels
• Priority check-ins
• Travel Insurance
• Free stays on occasions like anniversaries and birthdays
• Spa, dinners and other experiences (free or at lower prices)
• Cheaper flights (some programs allow you to transfer the points to airlines)

Not all programs have the same benefits, but most have some that make them worth it in the long run.

Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card offers several benefits, including one free night upon card renewal as a welcome gift. This is valid for one year and can be used for one night at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. The redemption level is at or under 15,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. For every ₹150 spent at any of the listed hotels under the program, a user earns 8 points. Similarly, for every ₹150 spent on travel, dining and entertainment under the program, users earn 4 points, and for every ₹150 spent on travel, dining and entertainment, users earn 2 points.

Many other cards also offer these programs—like SBI Card ELITE, which has up to 15% discounts on hotels, lounge access programs, milestone privileges, concierge services, etc.

HSBC Taj Credit Card is another card for luxury hotel stays offering limitless upgrades, discounts and other benefits at Taj hotels, along with complimentary lounge access and low foreign exchange mark-up fees.

Further, the Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card also has similar benefits including complimentary night stays, free room upgrades and discounts on dining.

How to use these cards?

• To maximise benefits, try to book hotels that are associated with the program to earn reward points and enjoy the benefits.
• Use the card for listed items like dining and entertainment to earn bonus points.
• To reach spending milestones, use the card for big purchases.
• Pay bills on time to avoid hefty charges.
• Read the terms and conditions carefully to check on rewards and charges.

These cards make travel easier and more convenient, offering affordable options for hotels, flights, dining, and other valuable experiences. You must choose the right hotel credit card that aligns with your travel habits and budget and offers you the maximum benefits.