Which Credit Card Should You Choose When Staying at IHG Hotels?

Why Consider the IHG Credit Card?

If you're planning your next trip to an IHG hotel, it's natural to think about using the IHG One Rewards credit card. This card offers a range of benefits, including higher point accumulation and exclusive perks like elite status. However, sometimes using a different credit card might help you maximize your rewards even further. Let’s take a look at some credit card options that could surprise you when booking at IHG!

Comparing Credit Cards for IHG Stays

While the IHG credit card is often the best choice for hotel bookings, there are times when a more comprehensive travel credit card can provide greater value, especially if you can transfer points to other rewards programs. Here are some cards to consider:

• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card: Earn 10 points for every dollar spent at IHG, valued at approximately 6 cents. Benefits include automatic Platinum Elite status and a free night on the fourth night when booked with points. Annual fee: $99.
• IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card: Similar to the personal card, it also offers 10 points per dollar spent with the same benefits. Annual fee: $99.
• IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card: Earn 5 points for every dollar spent, valued at around 3 cents. Benefits include automatic Silver Elite status and a free night. Annual fee: $0.
• American Express Green Card®: Earn 3 points per dollar spent, valued at around 6 cents. Annual fee: $150.
• Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Earn 4 points per dollar spent (or 8 points if booked through Chase Travel), valued at 8.2 cents or more. Benefits include automatic Platinum Elite status through the end of 2027. Annual fee: $795.
• Citi Strata Premier® Card: Earn 3 points per dollar spent, valued at 5.7 cents, with no annual fee.
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card: Earn 5 points for every dollar spent, valued at about 8.3 cents. Annual fee: $95.

Which Card Should You Use for Your IHG Stay?

While keeping the IHG credit card for its benefits is a good habit, there are times when using a different card may yield higher rewards. When making your decision, consider these two important factors:

• The benefits you receive from the card you use for payment.
• The value of the points you accumulate when using that card.

Comparing Point Accumulation Across Cards

For example, if you pay with the IHG One Premier card, you earn 10 points for every dollar spent. According to TPG's valuation, each IHG point is worth about 0.6 cents, making 10 points equivalent to 6 cents.

On the other hand, if you use the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you’ll earn 4 points per dollar spent (or 8 points if booked through Chase Travel). Chase points are valued at approximately 2.05 cents each, so 4 points would be worth around 8.2 cents (or 16.4 cents if booked through Chase Travel). Thus, paying with the Sapphire Reserve card actually provides better value.

Conclusion

If you have an IHG credit card, it’s essential to keep it for the elite status and perks. However, in many situations, using another card might offer greater benefits when it comes to payment. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find out which card gives you the best value for your trip!