2018 Hotel Loyalty Program Changes

2018 Hotel Loyalty Program Changes

Hotel loyalty members have much to look forward to this year, as many of our FedRooms partner hotels will be evolving their loyalty programs to better serve their guests and attract new customers in 2018. 

A number of large hotel mergers occurred in the last two years, including IHG's acquisition of Kimpton and Marriott's purchase of Starwood. As such, the hotel loyalty programs will also be merging in 2018. Early this year, Kimpton Karma Rewards became a part of InterContinental Hotel Groups's IHG Rewards Club. Members are able to receive the same perks they enjoyed through Kimpton Karma, but will also now have a chance to book free stays at more than 5,000 hotels within the IHG portfolio. It is anticipated that Marriott and Starwood will move to a single technology platform this year, but there is no specific date as of yet for when the loyalty programs will merge or how this will affect the reward programs.

In addition, some hotels are increasing the number of unusual loyalty perks for their travelers in 2017. Hilton Honors now allows guests to pool points with up to 10 family members and friends, while IHG provides members with access to Fuel Rewards and free digital Kindle books. 

Loyal travelers will also be excited to learn that some of their favorite brands are launching new and innovative ways for travelers to redeem their points in addition to free stays. Starwood Preferred Guest and Marriott Rewards plan to expand their special event opportunities offered to Momentsreward members. Best Western recently launched the new Experiences program, which allows guests to purchase adventure packages in destinations such as Walt Disney World and the Grand Canyon for points. Hilton is planning to evolve their Music Happens Here program in 2018 to inspire travel to top music destinations and grant travelers access to live events.  

Finally, new cobranded credit cards will be rolling out in 2018 with some great sign-up bonuses and opportunities to earn points with no annual fees. Read on for more details, and enjoy all of the perks offered through our partner hoteliers throughout 2018.