IHG One Rewards credit cards offer a straightforward path to savings and perks for frequent and even occasional travelers. Whether you stay at Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, or InterContinental hotels, these cards can unlock significant value through welcome bonuses, elite status, and ongoing rewards. Here’s a breakdown of the current offers and which card best suits your travel habits.
IHG One Rewards Premier Card: For Regular Stays
The IHG One Rewards Premier Card is ideal if you book IHG properties several times a year.
- Welcome Bonus: Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months. Based on current valuations, this is worth approximately $875.
- Annual Fee: $99
- Earning Rates: 10x points on IHG stays, 5x on travel and dining, 3x on other purchases.
- Key Perks: Complimentary IHG Platinum Elite status, a free night worth up to 40,000 points each year, and reimbursement for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fees.
The fourth-night-free benefit (when booking four nights with points, the fourth is free) adds substantial value for longer stays. Points can be redeemed for as little as 5,000 points per night.
IHG One Rewards Traveler Card: For Occasional Travelers
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Card is designed for those who stay at IHG hotels less frequently.
- Welcome Bonus: Earn up to 120,000 bonus points: 90,000 points after spending $2,000 in the first three months, plus an additional 30,000 points by earning bonus points on select purchases. Valued at up to $600.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Earning Rates: 5x points on IHG stays, 3x on utilities, dining, and gas, 2x on all other purchases.
- Key Perks: Complimentary Silver Elite status and the fourth-night-free benefit.
This card provides a solid return without an annual fee, making it an excellent entry point for IHG rewards.
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Card: For Business Owners
The IHG One Rewards Premier Business Card caters to business owners who frequently travel for work.
- Welcome Bonus: Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months, valued at $700.
- Annual Fee: $99
- Earning Rates: 10x points on IHG stays, 5x on dining, gas, and office supplies, 3x on all other purchases.
- Key Perks: Complimentary Platinum Elite status, a free night each year (with the option to top off with points), and reimbursement for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fees.
The business card mirrors many benefits of the personal Premier card, including a fourth-night-free benefit and an additional free night after $60,000 in annual spending.
Beyond the Bonus: Maximizing IHG Rewards
These cards offer more than just welcome bonuses:
- Elite Status: Automatic elite status unlocks perks like early check-in, late checkout, and bonus points on stays.
- Fourth-Night-Free: A valuable perk for longer stays, effectively saving you 25% on point redemptions.
- Category Bonuses: Earning accelerated points on gas, dining, and travel can quickly add up.
- Points Discounts: Cardholders can purchase additional points at a 20% discount.
Application Rules and Restrictions
Chase’s 5/24 rule applies to these cards, meaning you won’t be approved if you’ve opened five or more credit cards in the past 24 months. Additionally, you must not have received a welcome bonus on an IHG card within the last 24 months.
In conclusion, IHG One Rewards cards provide tangible benefits for travelers of all frequencies. Whether you’re a business owner, frequent vacationer, or occasional guest, these cards offer a clear path to maximizing your rewards and enjoying a more rewarding travel experience.
