Best Credit Cards for Hotel Stays
Planning to travel often this year and want to get the most value out of your hotel expenses? Choosing the best credit cards for hotel stays can be a game-changer. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or someone who enjoys the occasional luxury weekend, having the right card means you can earn free nights, get elite status, enjoy complimentary upgrades, and save hundreds of dollars annually. With so many options available, understanding the strengths of each card can help you match one with your travel lifestyle. Let’s explore which cards offer the best rewards, travel protections, and hotel-related perks in 2025.
Why Choose a Hotel-Focused Credit Card
Using a credit card tailored for hotel spending gives you more than just cashback or points. These cards often unlock valuable travel benefits that make your stays more comfortable and cost-effective. Perks may include:
- Complimentary elite status at hotel chains
- Free anniversary nights
- No foreign transaction fees
- Travel insurance and protections
- Early check-in, late check-out, and room upgrades
When chosen wisely, a hotel rewards card can elevate your travel experience significantly.
Top 5 Best Credit Cards for Hotel Stays in 2025
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Why it’s great: Though not exclusive to hotels, this card offers strong travel benefits and flexibility with point redemption.
- Earn 2x points on travel and dining
- Points transfer to hotel partners like Hyatt and Marriott
- No foreign transaction fees
- Strong travel protections
Best for: Travelers who want flexibility with multiple hotel brands.
2. Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
Why it’s great: Ideal for loyal Marriott guests.
- Earn up to 17x points per dollar spent at Marriott properties
- Free night certificate every account anniversary
- Automatic Silver Elite status
- No foreign transaction fees
Best for: Frequent Marriott travelers looking to earn free nights fast.
3. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
Why it’s great: A mid-tier card packed with Hilton perks.
- 12x points at Hilton properties
- Free night after spending $15,000 per year
- Automatic Gold status with room upgrades and free breakfast
- No foreign transaction fees
Best for: Regular Hilton guests who travel domestically and internationally.
4. World of Hyatt Credit Card
Why it’s great: Excellent value for loyal Hyatt customers.
- Earn 9x points on Hyatt stays
- Free night each anniversary (with potential for more)
- Automatic Discoverist status
- Travel protections and no foreign transaction fees
Best for: Hyatt loyalists who want easy elite access and strong point earning.
5. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Why it’s great: Luxury hotel perks and unbeatable travel benefits.
- Access to Fine Hotels & Resorts with daily breakfast, room upgrades, and late checkout
- Up to $200 hotel credit annually
- Marriott and Hilton Gold status
- Extensive airport lounge access and travel credits
Best for: High spenders who want top-tier benefits across multiple hotel brands.
How to Choose the Right Card for Your Hotel Stays
Here are key questions to ask yourself before applying:
- Do you stay mostly with one hotel brand? If yes, choose that brand’s co-branded card.
- Do you value flexibility? General travel cards like Chase Sapphire or Amex Platinum are ideal.
- Do you prefer low annual fees? Look for mid-range cards like the Hilton Surpass or Hyatt Card.
- Do you want elite status perks? Pick cards offering automatic status or fast-track options.
- Are free nights important to you? Many cards give free night certificates after your card anniversary.
Tips to Maximize Hotel Credit Card Benefits
- Combine elite status perks: If your card offers status, match it across other programs where possible.
- Use the card for all hotel bookings: Even third-party bookings may earn bonus points or perks.
- Redeem points strategically: Use off-peak times or special promotions to stretch your points further.
- Watch for limited-time offers: Hotel cards often run promos with massive welcome bonuses or extra free nights.
Final Thoughts on the Best Credit Cards for Hotel Stays
Choosing one of the best credit cards for hotel stays in 2025 depends on your travel habits, hotel loyalty, and spending style. Whether you’re chasing free nights with Marriott, enjoying perks with Hilton, or just want flexible points across brands, there’s a card that fits your goals. For the smart traveler, leveraging hotel credit cards is one of the easiest ways to travel better for less.
Looking for more ways to elevate your travel game? Explore our Ultimate Travel Budget Planner for 2025 to pair your hotel perks with savvy financial planning.
