Discover the 6 Top Hotel Loyalty Programs

Most hotel brands, whether large or small, offer loyalty or guest recognition initiatives. However, discerning travelers understand that not all programs are equal. If you're aiming to optimize hotel loyalty for global stays, consider this your guide to some of the finest rewards programs available.

Each of the six programs featured here is simple to join (and membership is free). Moreover, these rewards systems enable members to earn and redeem hotel points across an extensive network of properties, helping to reduce the cost of stays and offering real value to travelers.

Additionally, some programs provide members with perks like complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, and free nights, among other benefits. Let’s explore which hotel and travel brands made the list.

Marriott Bonvoy (Marriott International)

• Ideal for: Its vast (and worldwide) selection of hotels
• Join now: Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott stands as a colossal global chain with over 30 brands and 8,000 properties across 139 countries, making it the largest hotel group worldwide. Consequently, Marriott Bonvoy rewards members have access to a diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly to luxurious options, with a reach that surpasses any other program.

While redemption rates may vary significantly, Marriott remains a dominant player with a high likelihood of finding a Marriott hotel at your desired destination. Guests can earn and redeem points at renowned locations like the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort in the South Pacific and Tambo del Inka in Peru's Sacred Valley.

Pro tip: The Marriott Bonvoy program provides a fifth-night-free perk when booking entirely with points.

World of Hyatt (Hyatt Hotels & Resorts)

• Ideal for: Exceptional benefits
• Join now: World of Hyatt

While the World of Hyatt hotel portfolio is smaller than that of many global chains, it is continually expanding worldwide. There are over 1,250 hotels in 75 countries under the Hyatt brand, featuring luxury names like Park Hyatt, Alila, Andaz, and Miraval.

Though Hyatt may not match the scale of some other chains, it compensates with some of the most reliable (and generous) benefits for its members, including suite upgrades and a 4:00 p.m. late checkout for top-tier elites. Additionally, Hyatt’s collaboration with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) provides members access to a range of unique boutique hotels, from L’Escale Resort Marina & Spa in the Seychelles to Canaves Oia Suites in Santorini, Greece.

Pro tip: Annoying resort fees are eliminated when booking stays solely with World of Hyatt points.

IHG One (Intercontinental Hotels Group)

• Ideal for: A wide range of hotel options, from ultra-luxury to budget-friendly
• Join now: IHG One

IHG One is the loyalty program for Intercontinental Hotel Group, which encompasses 17 brands and 6,600 hotels across 100 countries. This diverse portfolio features luxurious, nature-centric Six Senses resorts, the vibrant Kimpton Hotels, and budget-friendly Holiday Inns.

While staying at hotels is the main way to earn rewards, members can also accumulate points through shopping portals, food delivery services, and more, including IHG’s partnership with Grubhub. Amassing enough points allows you to redeem them for coveted properties like the flagship Regent Hong Kong and the exclusive Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives.

Pro tip: One of the quickest ways to boost your IHG One Rewards points is by signing up for an IHG credit card.

Hilton Honors (Hilton Hotels & Resorts)

• Ideal for: Earning status with ease
• Join now: Hilton Honors

Hilton is globally recognized and boasts an extensive presence with 22 brands and 7,300 properties across over 120 countries. For Hilton Honors members, this translates to opportunities to earn and redeem points at luxurious resorts like the oceanfront Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal in Mexico and vibrant destinations such as the esteemed Conrad Tokyo in Japan.

Compared to many other hotel loyalty programs, achieving Hilton Honors status is relatively straightforward, whether through stays or by holding the right credit card. This makes for additional perks and benefits, whether you're planning a quick getaway or an extended vacation.

Pro tip: Similar to World of Hyatt, Hilton Honors waives resort fees when you use points to pay for your stay.

Leaders Club (Leading Hotels of the World)

• Ideal for: Immediate benefits
• Join now: Leaders Club

Leading Hotels of the World comprises a selection of independent luxury hotels, featuring over 400 properties in 80 countries worldwide. Members of Leaders Club enjoy benefits right from the start (no status necessary), including a one-category upgrade upon arrival, daily continental breakfast, and late checkout. Members can earn and redeem points at prestigious locations like the Ritz London, the Greenwich Hotel in New York, and Nihi Sumba in Indonesia.

Pro tip: Travelers with certain Citi credit cards can transfer their ThankYou Rewards points to Leaders Club.

Expedia One Key (Expedia, Hotels.com, Vrbo)

• Ideal for: Travelers who are brand-agnostic
• Join now: Expedia One Key

Introduced in mid-2023, Expedia One Key is the latest rewards program, covering three major platforms: Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo. No matter which hotel you choose (or other travel services you book), members earn cash-equivalent “OneKeyCash” towards future trips while also progressing toward the next status tier in the program.

One Key stands out on this list as the only rewards program offered by an online travel agency (OTA). This is particularly beneficial for those who do not prefer any specific hotel brand and seek a simple method to earn rebates on their stays.

Pro tip: While One Key is perfect for travelers who don't favor a particular chain, booking through an OTA typically prevents the use of status benefits within that hotel's loyalty program.