In the realm of travel rewards, mid-tier hotel cards strike a delicate balance between affordability and perks. While they may lack the lavish benefits of their premium counterparts, these cards offer significant value to frequent travelers or those dipping their toes into the world of hotel points.
Annual Fee
All cards on our list share a modest annual fee of $95-$150, with only the Hilton Honors Surpass charging a slightly higher fee of $150.
Sign-Up Bonus/Welcome Offer
The IHG One Rewards Premier emerges as the winner, boasting an impressive 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 within the first three months of account opening. However, it’s crucial to note that not all hotel points are created equal. According to TPG valuations, IHG points are worth about 0.5 cents each, meaning the 140,000 bonus points is worth approximately $700.
In contrast, the Chase Sapphire Preferred comes out on top with Chase Ultimate Rewards points valued at 2.05 cents each, resulting in a bonus worth $1,538.
Earning Rates
When it comes to hotel spending specifically, the Hilton Honors Surpass takes the lead with an impressive 7.2% return on hotel purchases. The World of Hyatt is a close contender, offering a 6.8% return on hotel stays and solid bonuses on other categories. However, as a cobranded card, it’s best used for hotel spending primarily.
Benefits
The IHG One Rewards Premier once again shines in this category, offering a wide array of perks for its $99 annual fee. The anniversary reward night alone can be worth up to 40,000 points, and Platinum Elite status comes with a host of valuable benefits such as a 50% bonus on paid stays, room upgrades, and more.
Which Card Is Right for You?
Before choosing a card, consider your travel habits and the perks that align with your needs. The price difference between these cards is minimal, so the best option for you depends on your preferred hotel brand and the benefits you find most appealing.
Hilton and Marriott are excellent choices for travelers who favor larger brands with diverse property options, including luxury accommodations. However, with Hyatt points being the most valuable, the World of Hyatt card offers a compelling alternative, especially for non-hotel bonus purchases.
On the other hand, casual travelers or beginners might prefer the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Citi Strata Premier, which provide redemption flexibility with transferable points.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best mid-tier hotel card for you hinges on your individual circumstances. If you’re unsure which brand to stick with, a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred is a great starting point due to its transferable points and redemption flexibility.
However, if you have a preferred hotel chain, it’s worth exploring that specific brand’s credit card for tailored benefits and exclusive perks.
Remember, “there is no right or wrong choice” when selecting a mid-tier hotel credit card. The key is to identify the card that aligns with your travel style and provides the most value for your spending habits.
