Comparing IHG vs Hilton: Best Loyalty Programs for Travelers 2024

 As a frequent traveler, I’ve come to appreciate the quality and convenience of hotel accommodations more and more. Whenever I plan a trip, I carefully compare the loyalty programs of major hotel brands to see which one suits my needs best. Recently, I conducted a detailed comparison between IHG and Hilton, two globally renowned hotel chains with top-notch accommodations worldwide. If you’re like me and love to travel, understanding their loyalty programs can be very helpful. Here are my insights on IHG and Hilton, which I hope will be useful to you.


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Brand Overview: IHG vs Hilton

IHG Brand Overview

IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company headquartered in the UK, boasting 19 brands and one of the largest hotel loyalty programs, IHG One Rewards. With over 6,000 hotels in more than 100 countries, IHG offers a variety of luxury brands such as Six Senses, Regent, and InterContinental. Through the IHG One Rewards program, I can easily earn points, redeem them for free stays or other benefits, and enjoy member-exclusive rates and late check-outs.

Hilton Brand Overview

Hilton Hotels operates more than 7,500 locations worldwide, making it another go-to brand for me. Hilton Honors is its loyalty program, where members earn points through hotel stays and credit card spending. These points can be redeemed for free stays at Hilton properties worldwide, shopping on Amazon, and even unique experiences. Hilton’s diverse range of brands, from the luxurious Waldorf Astoria to the budget-friendly Spark by Hilton, caters to my various travel needs.

Price Comparison: IHG vs Hilton

Price is a significant factor for me when choosing hotels. IHG and Hilton have some differences in their fee structures. For instance, IHG's average resort fee is 3.6% of the room rate, while Hilton's is 3.9%. Additionally, Hilton’s parking fees are higher at 12.8% of the room rate compared to IHG. These fees are important to consider in my travel budget.

Earning and Redeeming Points: IHG vs Hilton

Earning IHG Points

IHG One Rewards offers various ways to earn points. Besides hotel stays and credit card spending, IHG frequently runs promotions that help me accumulate points faster.

Earning Hilton Points

Hilton Honors members can earn points through hotel stays, co-branded credit card spending, and partner programs. Hilton’s extensive coverage provides numerous opportunities to earn points.

Redeeming IHG Points

IHG points can be redeemed for a wide range of options, including free stays, merchandise purchases, and airline miles. The benefit of getting the fourth night free for continuous stays is particularly useful for me.

Redeeming Hilton Points

Hilton points can be used for booking stays, redeeming VIP experiences, Lyft rides, and Amazon shopping. The flexibility in redeeming points covers both my daily life and travel needs.

Membership Tiers and Benefits: IHG vs Hilton

IHG Membership Tiers and Benefits

IHG membership tiers range from Club Member to Diamond Elite, with different benefits at each level. As an elite member, I enjoy perks such as bonus points, room upgrades, and late check-outs.

Hilton Honors Membership Tiers and Benefits

Hilton Honors membership tiers range from Member to Diamond. Elite members receive additional points, room upgrades, and access to executive lounges, among other perks.

Special Features and Unique Offers: IHG vs Hilton

IHG One Rewards members can enjoy exclusive discounts during bookings, with Spire Elite members getting the highest level of benefits. Hilton Honors offers a fifth night free benefit and allows members to pool points, which is very convenient for me and my friends and family.

Credit Card Comparison: IHG vs Hilton

In the US, I often use co-branded credit cards from IHG and Hilton. Hilton’s Aspire card provides top-tier Diamond status, while Chase’s IHG Premier card offers Platinum status. Hilton's credit cards are more advantageous for earning points on everyday spending, which benefits my daily expenses as well.

Summary: IHG vs Hilton

Overall, IHG and Hilton each have their pros and cons. IHG is ideal for travelers who prefer diverse point-earning methods and benefits for continuous stays, while Hilton is more flexible and suitable for those who need extensive hotel coverage and want to earn points through everyday spending. Whichever brand I choose, I can enjoy significant rewards through their loyalty programs, making my travels more enjoyable and cost-effective.

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