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Introduction: Is the IHG One Rewards Premier Card Right for You?

As a travel credit card enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for cards that offer real value to specific travel styles. The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is one that frequently comes up in discussions, and for good reason. It packs a punch for those of us who are already fans of the IHG hotel group. But, with a $99 annual fee, it’s vital to assess whether the perks truly outweigh the cost. In this post, I’ll dive deep into the IHG Premier Card, exploring its benefits, drawbacks, earning potential, and redemption strategies. Ultimately, I’ll help you decide if this card deserves a place in your wallet.

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Unpacking the Pros and Cons of the IHG Premier Card

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly weigh the good and the not-so-good.

Pros:

* Generous welcome offer: New cardholders can take advantage of a substantial bonus, often in the form of free nights after meeting a spending requirement. This is a fantastic way to kickstart your IHG points balance. * Annual Free Night Certificate: This is arguably the card’s most valuable perk. Each year, you receive a free night certificate valid at an IHG property costing up to 40,000 points. I find that the certificate alone can more than offset the annual fee. * Automatic Platinum Elite Status: You automatically receive IHG Platinum Elite status just for being a cardholder. I value this benefit because it comes with perks like bonus points on stays, potential room upgrades, and welcome amenities. * Fourth Night Free: This is a brilliant perk if you frequently book award stays of four nights or longer. I appreciate that it stretches my IHG points even further. * Earning bonuses on everyday spending: This card offers bonus points on IHG stays, travel, gas station and restaurant purchases. * TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit: Receive a statement credit for a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus application.

Cons:

* Annual Fee: The $99 annual fee is a factor to consider. However, as I mentioned earlier, the free night certificate can easily justify it. * Limited Redemption Value Outside of IHG: If you’re not primarily interested in IHG hotels, the points may not be as valuable to you. * Poor Airline Transfer Rates: IHG points don’t transfer to airline partners at a favorable rate. I consider other cards with better transfer options if airlines are a priority.

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Maximizing the Welcome Offer: A Strategic Approach

One of the most enticing aspects of the IHG Premier Card is its welcome offer. Currently, new cardholders can earn a certain number of free nights (each night can be redeemed for a room costing up to a specified amount in points) after spending a designated amount on the card within the first three months. This offer is worth a substantial amount based on my valuations of IHG points, as it has the potential to be.

I approach maximizing welcome offers strategically. First, I make sure that I can comfortably meet the minimum spending requirement without overspending or buying things I don’t need. I shift my regular spending to the card, and I might even pre-pay some bills if necessary. Timing is key! It’s wise to apply when you have upcoming expenses that will contribute to meeting the spending requirement.

Moreover, I recommend being mindful of Chase’s 5/24 rule. This rule states that if you’ve opened five or more credit cards in the past 24 months, Chase will likely deny your application. Ensure you’re under this limit before applying. Also, keep in mind that you’re ineligible for this card (or its bonus) if you currently have any IHG personal credit card or have earned a welcome bonus on another IHG personal credit card within the last 24 months.

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Diving Deep into IHG Premier Card Benefits: More Than Just Points

The IHG Premier Card comes with a suite of benefits that enhance the overall travel experience. Let’s break down some of the most valuable ones:

* Anniversary Free Night: As a savvy traveler, I always look forward to my annual free night certificate. I’ve previously redeemed my certificates at incredible properties, such as the InterContinental Paris Le Grand and the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel. Plus, you can use an unlimited number of points to top off this certificate and use it for higher-priced properties. * IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite Status: This status provides benefits like bonus points on paid stays, potential room upgrades, and a welcome amenity. * Fourth Night Free: Whenever I plan an extended stay, I check if I can book four nights using points to take advantage of the “fourth night free” perk. It’s one of the easiest ways to get more value out of your points. * Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit: This perk offers reimbursement for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four years. It’s a practical benefit that saves both time and money. * United TravelBank Cash: You can get up to $50 of United TravelBank cash per calendar year after registering your IHG Premier with your MileagePlus account. * Travel and Purchase Protections: The card offers peace of mind with protections like trip cancellation/interruption insurance and purchase protection. I find these protections invaluable, especially when unexpected events disrupt my travel plans.

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Earning and Burning: Maximizing Your IHG Points

Now, let’s discuss the art of earning and redeeming IHG points.

Earning Points:

You earn 10 points per dollar spent at IHG hotels and resorts. Furthermore, cardmembers earn 5 points per dollar spent on travel, dining (including takeout and eligible delivery) and gas purchases, plus 3 points per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Redeeming Points:

IHG One Rewards uses dynamic award pricing, meaning the number of points required for a stay can vary. While there’s no official award chart, I have seen nights priced as low as 5,000 points and as high as 120,000 points (excluding certain luxury properties).

To maximize your redemptions, I recommend:

* Being Flexible with Dates: If possible, adjust your travel dates to find nights with lower point requirements. * Exploring Different Properties: Consider staying at a variety of IHG brands. You might find excellent value at brands like Holiday Inn Express or Staybridge Suites. * Utilizing the Fourth Night Free Perk: For longer stays, always book in four-night increments to take advantage of the fourth night free benefit. * Mixing Points and Cash: When you book this way, IHG sells you the extra points and then debits your account for the full number of points.

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Alternative Credit Cards to Consider

While the IHG Premier Card is excellent for IHG loyalists, it’s essential to consider other options.

* IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card: If you want IHG perks without an annual fee, this card offers automatic Silver status, a discount on IHG points purchases, and a fourth night free. * Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: For more flexible rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred allows you to transfer Ultimate Rewards points to IHG One Rewards at a 1:1 ratio and offers a broader range of travel partners. * IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card: This business card has similar benefits to the personal card but doesn’t count toward Chase’s 5/24 rule.

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Final Verdict: Is the IHG One Rewards Premier Card Worth It?

Ultimately, the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a worthwhile investment for frequent IHG travelers. The annual free night certificate, Platinum Elite status, and fourth-night-free perk can easily offset the annual fee and provide significant value. However, if you rarely stay at IHG properties or prefer more flexible rewards programs, other cards might be a better fit.

Before applying, take the time to assess your travel habits and spending patterns. If you’re an IHG enthusiast, this card can unlock a world of benefits and elevate your travel experiences.

Apply here: IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card