Should I use my hotel points or save them?

Should I Use My Hotel Points or Save Them? The Sweet Spot of Strategic Spending

Loyalty programs and hotel points promise a world of free nights and luxurious upgrades, enticing us to save diligently. But is hoarding those points the best strategy? While the allure of a grand future redemption is strong, delaying gratification indefinitely risks losing potential value due to program changes, point devaluations, or even the unfortunate circumstance of forgetting you have them altogether. The key lies in finding the sweet spot: strategic spending that allows you to enjoy the fruits of your loyalty now while maintaining a healthy balance for future travel aspirations.

Think of your hotel points like a currency susceptible to inflation. Program rules can change, reducing the value of your hard-earned points overnight. A free night that once required 20,000 points might suddenly require 25,000. Hotels may also shift category levels, pushing your desired destination into a higher point bracket. By strategically using your points, you lock in their current value and avoid the disappointment of future devaluations.

Furthermore, the travel landscape is constantly evolving. New hotels emerge, tempting destinations appear, and your travel priorities may shift. Saving for a hypothetical “dream trip” years down the line might mean missing out on smaller, equally rewarding experiences in the present. That weekend getaway, a spontaneous city break, or even a convenient airport hotel stay can be significantly enhanced by using your points.

Strategic spending doesn’t mean burning through all your points on the first available opportunity. It’s about making informed decisions based on your travel patterns and aspirations. Consider these factors:

• Point Expiration Policies: Some programs have expiration dates if there’s no activity within a certain timeframe. Don’t let your points vanish – use them before they expire.
• High-Value Redemptions: Look for opportunities where your points offer exceptional value, such as during peak season or for high-demand properties where cash prices are exorbitant.
• Personal Travel Style: Are you a frequent traveler or more of an occasional vacationer? Frequent travelers might benefit from using points more regularly for smaller trips, while occasional travelers could save for a more significant redemption.
• Program Flexibility: Some programs allow you to transfer points to airline partners or use them for other non-hotel related expenses. Explore these options to maximize value.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use or save your hotel points is a personal one. However, by shifting the focus from pure accumulation to strategic spending, you can strike a balance between enjoying present rewards and securing future travel opportunities. Don’t let your points gather dust – make them work for you and enhance your travel experiences.