It is a fact: major hotel chains want your business. Moreover, if you use them frequently they want to reward you with free stays during future visits. Most hotel chains offer a points system giving you the opportunity to snag a free night or two down the road. However, you need a little extra help in order to achieve this feat and that is where a hotel rewards card can really help you out. Read on and we'll explore the advantages of using a hotel rewards card to get the points that you need.



Yes, rewards credit cards are all the rage. Charge just about anything and you'll reap points faster for nifty rewards later. Free airline miles, hotel stays, great gifts, even cash back are some ways you can maximize the benefits of a rewards card. Today, several hotel chains including Marriott, Choice Hotels, Starwood, Hilton, and even Harrah's are some of the hotels actively courting your business through the use of their affinity cards.

Every offer with these types of cards varies, but in many cases you will find a similar theme. Just check each offer for a deal that is right for you:

--One or more free nights included just by signing up.

--Free points, ranging from 2500 to 15,000 with your first purchase. This means that if you purchase and charge a candy bar, you can get all of these points for free!

--No annual fee. Some hotel cards do charge an annual fee, but those that don't are finding that customers are showing their appreciation by using their cards the most.

--Upgrades. Some hotel cards allow you to redeem your points for room upgrades, free meals, even free merchandise at hotel stores!

Naturally, it is important to discover what is in all of the fine print of these cards including:

--Introductory low or no interest rate term.

--Free balance transfers from high paying credit cards to a low, fixed rate card.

--Points on other purchases including grocery, gas station, and so much more.

--Online account management and fraud protection.

--Travel insurance and other travel related benefits.

Naturally, if you never stay at a particular chain then using their card makes little sense, so shop around for the best card at the best hotel that you are certain to patronize. Over time you'll accumulate enough points to take your family on an exotic vacation at destinations hither and yon!