2023 IHG Points Earning, Redeeming, and Maximizing

2023 IHG Points Earning, Redeeming, and Maximizing

Unveiling the Secrets of IHG Rewards: How to Earn and Maximize Points

IHG Hotels > Courtesy of Willard InterContinental

Are you a frequent traveler looking to maximize your hotel stays and indulge in luxury experiences? Look no further than IHG Rewards, the loyalty program of InterContinental Hotels Group. With a portfolio of renowned brands like Kimpton, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, and Staybridge Suites, IHG Rewards offers a treasure trove of benefits and perks for its members. In this article, we will take a closer look at how you can earn and make the most of your IHG points, revealing the secrets that will unlock a world of luxurious experiences.

Joining the IHG Rewards Club: A No-Brainer Decision

With more than 6,000 properties worldwide, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Kimpton, and Holiday Inn, becoming a member of the IHG Rewards Club is undoubtedly a smart move. As a member, you receive a plethora of perks such as complimentary Wi-Fi, no blackout dates, award nights that count towards elite status, a dedicated concierge, and exclusive rates. Whether you prefer luxury and boutique hotels or family-friendly accommodations, there is something for everyone within the IHG portfolio.

How to Earn IHG Points: Unveiling the Strategies

IHG offers two main categories of points: non-elite-qualifying bonus points and elite-qualifying base points. While base points can be earned by staying at IHG properties and booking through IHG’s various partners, the quickest way to accrue IHG points is by signing up for one of its three co-branded credit cards.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card: The Ultimate Powerhouse

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a powerhouse when it comes to earning IHG points. With a generous sign-up bonus of 140,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first three months, this card is worth considering. It offers up to 26x points for stays at IHG hotels, 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas stations purchases, and 3x points on all other purchases. Cardholders also enjoy automatic Platinum Elite status, a free anniversary night certificate each year, and various travel and purchase protections. The annual fee is $99.

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card: A Solid Option

If you occasionally stay with IHG or prefer a card with no annual fee, the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is a good choice. It offers 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 in the first three months, with 17x points for stays at IHG properties and bonus points on various categories. While it lacks some of the benefits of the Premier Credit Card, it still provides significant value for IHG loyalists.

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card: The Newest Addition

For business owners seeking to earn IHG points, the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card is the latest addition to the IHG card lineup. With a sign-up bonus of 140,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first three months, this card is perfect for business-related expenses. Cardholders enjoy enhanced earning rates at IHG hotels, travel, and gas stations, as well as a free night award after spending $60,000 in a calendar year. With similar benefits to the Personal Premier Credit Card, this business card is a great addition to any IHG loyalist’s wallet.

Transfer from Chase Ultimate Rewards or Bilt Rewards

If you prefer more flexibility in your rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards® cardholders can transfer points to IHG at a 1:1 ratio. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, and Ink Business Preferred Card are some examples of Chase cards that allow transfers.

An alternative way to earn IHG points is through the Bilt Rewards program. Bilt Mastercard® lets you earn points on rent payments, travel, dining, and other purchases. These points can be transferred to IHG.

Other Earning Strategies

IHG offers various additional ways to earn points. You can earn points through elite status, dining, referrals, promotions, IHG Business Rewards, and even by purchasing points directly. Some of these strategies come with exclusive benefits, such as complimentary Wi-Fi, priority check-in, and bonus point packages.

Making the Most of Your IHG Points: A World of Possibilities

As an IHG Rewards Club member, you can take advantage of your hard-earned points in various ways. Let’s explore some of the best ways to maximize the value of your IHG points.

Dream Vacations: Luxury Awaits

With IHG points in hand, you can indulge in dream vacations at some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts. Whether it’s a romantic escape to Bora Bora’s InterContinental Le Moana or an artistic journey at Kimpton DeWitt Amsterdam, your points can unlock unforgettable experiences.

Stretch Your Savings with Points & Cash

If you want to make your points last longer, IHG offers a Points & Cash feature that allows you to pay for award nights with a combination of points and cash. This way, you can manage your points effectively and enjoy the benefits of a partial award redemption.

Benefit from the Fourth Reward Night Offer

IHG cardholders enjoy a fantastic benefit—the fourth reward night for free when redeeming points for stays of three or more nights. This offer allows you to maximize your points and enjoy an extra night at no additional cost, making your travels even more rewarding.

Utilize Your IHG Premier Anniversary Night

If you hold either the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card or the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card, you are entitled to an anniversary night certificate each year. This certificate can be used at any IHG property with a redemption rate of up to 40,000 points per night. Plus, IHG allows you to “top off” the certificate with additional points, expanding your options for more expensive hotels.

Other Redemption Options

Apart from award stays, IHG offers several alternative redemption options. You can convert your points to airline miles with partner airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines. Alternatively, you can donate your points to charitable organizations, transfer them to friends or family, or redeem them for gift cards, digital rewards, merchandise, magazines, or exclusive experiences through IHG Auctions.

Conclusion: Unlocking the World of IHG Rewards

IHG Rewards Club provides an abundance of opportunities to earn and maximize your points. By leveraging the IHG co-branded credit cards, transferring points from other rewards programs, and making the most of IHG’s partnerships and promotions, you can unlock a world of luxurious experiences. Whether you choose to stay at a lavish resort, mix points and cash, or redeem your points for alternative rewards, IHG Rewards helps you make the most out of every journey. So, join IHG Rewards Club today and start enjoying the benefits of loyalty and indulgence!