Source: The Points Guy
Summary
When booking an IHG hotel, it’s not always best to use an IHG One Rewards cobranded card. Instead, consider using a travel rewards card that earns transferable points, which can be more valuable in the long run. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express Green Card, and Citi Strata Premier Card offer higher earning rates and more valuable points. IHG loyalists can still hold an IHG cobranded card for elite status and benefits, but use a different card to pay for their stay.
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The escape is carefully planned.
Travelers can earn more valuable points by using a card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which offers 4 points per dollar spent on hotel stays. The American Express Green Card and Citi Strata Premier Card also offer competitive earning rates. IHG loyalists can still enjoy elite status and benefits with an IHG cobranded card, but use a different card to pay for their stay. The value of points earned is key, with Chase Ultimate Rewards points valued at 2.05 cents each, compared to IHG points valued at 0.6 cents each. Using a card like the Sapphire Reserve can provide more flexibility and value in the long run.
The points game is all about maximizing value.
