Best Hotel Loyalty Programs
#4 - IHG One Rewards
Best for Mid-Scale Value & Broad Global Network
Program Overview
IHG One Rewards is the loyalty program for InterContinental Hotels Group, covering 6,700+ hotels across 20 brands and 100+ countries. It spans the full spectrum from budget brands like Holiday Inn Express and Candlewood Suites to upscale options like InterContinental, Regent Hotels, and boutique Kimpton Hotels. With over 100 million members, IHG is one of the most globally accessible programs. The program is especially praised for its easy-to-earn elite status, a valuable fourth-night-free perk on award redemptions, and a Milestone Rewards system that layers on personalized perks.
How to Join
Join for free at ihg.com or the IHG One Rewards app. IHG also offers co-branded credit cards (IHG One Rewards Premier Card) that immediately grant Platinum Elite status and provide the fourth-night-free benefit on award bookings.
Loyalty Tiers
|
Tier |
Requirement |
Key Benefits |
|
Club |
Base (no nights) |
10 pts/$ on stays, exclusive member rates, app check-in |
|
Silver Elite |
10 qualifying nights |
+20% bonus pts, priority check-in, welcome amenity |
|
Gold Elite |
20 qualifying nights |
+40% bonus pts, room upgrades (subject to avail.), early check-in where available |
|
Platinum Elite |
40 qualifying nights |
+60% bonus pts, guaranteed early check-in, late checkout, lounge access at select brands |
|
Spire Elite |
75 qualifying nights |
+100% bonus pts, suite upgrades, dedicated Spire line, Milestone Rewards |
Ways to Earn Points
- Hotel stays: 10 base points per dollar; bonus multipliers increase with elite status
- IHG One Rewards Premier Card: Up to 26 points per dollar at IHG properties; automatic Platinum Elite status
- Fourth Night Free: Premier cardholders get every 4th night free on award redemptions of 4+ nights
- Airline transfers: Transfer points to airlines including British Airways, United, American, and more
- Dining & retail: Earn through IHG's shopping and dining partner portals
- InterContinental Ambassador: Premium add-on for InterContinental loyalists: guaranteed room upgrade + weekend night certificate
Standout Benefits
- Fourth Night Free on award stays of 4+ nights (for Premier cardholders) — great for longer trips
- Milestone Rewards offers customizable perks (suite night awards, bonus points) as you accumulate nights
- 6,700+ hotels ensure wide availability in major business hubs and leisure destinations
- InterContinental Ambassador add-on is ideal for frequent luxury travelers
- IHG credit card grants Platinum Elite status instantly, bypassing night requirements
