It seems like almost every major hotel loyalty program and airline has announced impending changes, or has recently changed the way their travel rewards programs work. The Marriott Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest programs will potentially be merging soon, while the new American Airlines award chart was launched on the 22nd of March.
However, many people are unaware of the many other membership and rewards programs that are stand-outs in the travel industry. That cute little boutique hotel you can’t get enough of? Chances are it’s part of a program that could get you a few free nights.
Here are just a few of the lesser-known programs that you should definitely check out:
Leaders Club
As the name says, this program is specifically for the Leading Hotels of the World- more than 375 hotels spread throughout 75 countries. You will have to pay $150 per year for an introductory membership, however that includes a room upgrade (if available when you check-in), internet access, breakfast for up to two people each day that you stay, welcome gifts, exclusive rates, and even one free night at the hotels that participate for every five stays.
iPrefer
This is a program of preferred resorts and hotels, and members will get perks at more than 600 hotels included within the brand, in more than 85 countries. With standout hotels included like the Stafford London, Royal Palm Hotel Galapagos and the Ohla Ciutat Vella in Barcelona, this is one of the largest programs of its kind and it’s also free to join. Some of the benefits include free internet, early check-in and late checkouts if available, room upgrades and points.
Stash Hotel Rewards
This is a smaller program and includes independent hotels in Hawaii, Panama, the Caribbean and the United States. There are no fees to join, and you’ll earn 5 points for each dollar you spend, which can be used for free nights at other hotels (with no expiration or blackout dates.
Hotels.com Rewards
When it’s time to book online, many people assume that Priceline and Expedia are the best options. However the hotels.com program is free to join and easy to understand. For every night you stay you receive one “rewards night”, and once you’ve got 10 rewards nights saved you can then get a free night at an eligible hotel. The type of hotel will be based on the average you spent during the 10 nights you stayed at the other hotels, although you can also use it towards a more expensive room and simply pay the difference.
Priority Pass
If you love airport lounges but you don’t have elite status on one airline or you prefer to use different airlines when you fly, Priority Pass could be the option for you. This is an independent program for airport lounges, giving you access to more than 850 different lounges worldwide. You’ll pay $100 a year plus $27 for each visit, or $249 for 10 free visits each year.
