Best Hotel Credit Cards

Hotel credit cards are general-use cards that allow consumers to earn points with specific brands of hotels that have partnered with credit card issuers. Points rewards are typically highest for hotel-related spending; after that, you typically earn one point per dollar spent on all other purchases, which is the norm for this type of rewards card.

Points earned with co-branded hotel cards can then be used to book award nights with the hotel chain. The points cost per night usually varies by the property and is displayed on the location’s reservation website. Many hotel credit cards offer one-time introductory points bonuses provided you spend a designated amount within a certain time, which is often three months. The bonuses can easily be worth several nights in stays, depending on the level of hotel property you choose. Some cards also come with recurring annual bonuses of a hotel night, typically on your annual anniversary with the card. Annual fees are common with this type of card, but can generally be justified by the value of the benefits you receive. Aside from bonuses and rewards on spending, these can include elite status that earns you higher spending rewards and other perks such as complimentary room upgrades.

Most hotel credit cards are issued as co-branded partnerships between a major hotel brand, such as Hyatt, Marriott, or IHG, and a large national card issuer, such as Chase, Citi, or American Express.

Since some general travel cards offer extra rewards for hotel purchases, we also analyzed those in that category that earned points that can be redeemed for hotel stays. However, none of them made the cut among our top choices, since all proved less desirable overall than the best co-branded hotel cards.

Hotel credit cards aim to incentivize and reward hotel stays by offering higher rewards for hotel brand-specific hotel purchases. Additionally, most hotel credit cards give automatic elite status to cardholders to further incentivize them to stay at the hotel's properties. These perks may include late check-out, early check-in, free breakfast, complimentary upgrades, and more.

The value of each hotel's points varies from brand to brand. An Investopedia analysis of the value of points across hotel brands reveals a range of more than five times, from Radisson at a meager 0.42 cents per point to Hyatt at the top of the range at 1.88 cents. When scoring hotel cards, we take into account both the value of points and how easily they can be earned.

Points from hotel credit cards generally have the most value when redeemed for stays with the associated hotel brand. Some hotel chains allow you to transfer points to the loyalty programs of other hotel or airline partners, but the transfer ratio is generally so low that this is rarely a lucrative option.

Hotel credit cards typically offer numerous benefits when booking reservations at one of the hotel's properties. A few of the typical benefits that the best hotel credit cards offer are:

• Automatic elite status
• Ability to earn higher levels of elite status based on your spending
• Elite night credits toward higher elite status
• Earning more points on every dollar that you spend at the hotel
• An annual free night when you renew the card or when you meet spend requirements each year
• No foreign transaction fees

In addition to earning more points on your hotel purchases, some hotel credit cards also offer a bonus when spending on other categories popular with travelers. These categories can include dining, gas stations, flights, and more.

To maximize the benefits of your hotel credit card, stay with that hotel's brands as often as possible and use your card to pay for the room and your on-site meals. Your elite status will provide valuable benefits and you'll earn a higher number of points for your spending.

If you have an affinity for a certain hotel brand, this card type can allow you to achieve instant recognition and consideration. Many hotel credit cards confer automatic elite member status, which otherwise could take years to achieve.

Frequent Travelers

If you travel often for business or leisure, hotel stays are inevitable. A hotel card presents an opportunity to focus your spending on a national chain and turn it into award nights and other benefits.

International Travelers

With so many U.S. chains having an international presence, a hotel rewards card offers an ideal opportunity to earn points on domestic and international business travel that you can use to reduce the cost of a personal trip abroad.

Loyalty Status Seekers

If you have an affinity for a certain hotel brand, this card type can allow you to achieve instant recognition and consideration. Many hotel credit cards confer automatic elite member status, which otherwise could take years to achieve.

Rewards Strategists

Those who relish the strategic challenge of earning the maximum return on card rewards will find satisfaction with a hotel card. All rewards programs are based on points, the required points vary by property, and special offers are frequent—all of which can keep rewards aficionados fully engaged in the work of making the most of their hotel spending.

The Annual-Fee-Averse

Since co-branded hotel credit cards carry annual fees, there are better options for those who are allergic to fees.

Borrowers/Revolvers

Hotel credit cards tend to have higher APRs and don’t offer balance transfer opportunities, so this type of card is not a good fit for those who carry a balance each month or several times a year.

Credit Builders

Hotel cards typically require credit scores that are in the range of "Good" to "Excellent" or better, so it makes little sense for those with a less-than-stellar credit history and score.

How Do You Maximize Hotel Credit Card Rewards?

• Meet the initial spending required to earn any one-time introductory bonuses.
• Redeem any initial or annual night awards, as they often expire if not used.
• Stay at the hotel brand associated with the card whenever possible.
• Avoid carrying a balance on the card, since interest charges will essentially negate any rewards or bonuses you’ve earned.
• Consider using online shopping apps and portals that may add their own rewards to those you earn from the hotel chain.

What Credit Score Do I Need to Qualify for a Hotel Credit Card?

The hotel credit cards on this list usually require a credit score of at least 670 or higher, generally considered in the "Good" range. With a good credit score, you can take advantage of the perks from the hotel credit cards on this list, including automatic elite status, annual free nights, and bonus points on your eligible spending. If your credit score is below these levels, you can learn how to improve your credit score, then apply again when the time is right.

To apply for one of the best hotel credit cards, click on one of the links above, then have the following information ready to submit:

• Name, address, telephone, and email
• Social Security number and date of birth
• Employer name and annual income
• Hotel loyalty number (if you don't have one, it will be assigned to you)

After receiving your approval, pay attention to the required minimum spending amount and time frame to ensure that you receive your one-time bonus. If applicable, track your spending for additional benefits earned based on your purchases.