Many hotels and hotel chains offer loyalty or points earning programs to encourage brand loyalty and guarantee return bookings from their customers. Although there are other things to consider when choosing a hotel, these programs often offer worthwhile discounts and benefits to members.

How to earn points

Most hotel loyalty programs run on a "points per dollar spent" basis, with consumers receiving a number of points for each dollar they spend on accommodation. These points can either be redeemed for free nights or airline miles. Some programs even offer a range of gift cards, merchandise and memberships that can be redeemed for points, and nearly all have special promotional offers where you may receive double points or a bonus gift card for stays during certain periods (usually outside peak occupancy times such as school holidays and Christmas). Credit cards linked to the program are another way of accruing additional points.

How to choose a program

When choosing a loyalty program keep in mind your particular spending and travel patterns. If you are an infrequent traveller, a program with low redemption levels is probably best for you. Some programs are better value for room redemptions while others are better value for merchandise purchases. Compare the different loyalty programs, keeping in mind what type of awards suit your type of travel pattern, to find the most appropriate program for you.

Check loyalty programs online or call the hotel group direct.