Travel Hacking Series | Free Hotels

Are you ready to stay in top hotels for free? Get comfy because we've got a step-by-step guide that will have you sipping cocktails by the pool in no time!
Overwhelmed? Book time with me here.

Step 1: Sign up for hotel loyalty programs

The first step to getting free hotel stays is to sign up for hotel loyalty programs. Many hotel chains offer their own loyalty programs, such as Marriott Bonvoy, World of Hyatt, and IHG Rewards Club. When you sign up, you'll earn points for each stay that you can redeem for free hotel nights. Plus, as a member, you'll often have access to exclusive rates and perks, such as free Wi-Fi, room upgrades, and late checkouts.

Step 2: Get a hotel rewards credit card

Once you've signed up for hotel loyalty programs, it's time to get a hotel rewards credit card. These cards accelerate your points earning, as well as for everyday spending. Some popular hotel rewards credit cards include the Chase World of Hyatt, the Chase Marriott Bonvoy, and the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card. I’m a customer of the Chase cards, since they come with free nights automatically. More details on my rec page!

Step 3: Maximize your points earning

To earn as many points as possible, make sure to book your hotel stays directly through the hotel's website or app. You'll often earn more points this way than if you book through a third-party site like Expedia or Booking.com. Additionally, look for promotions and bonuses that can earn you extra points. Marriott and Hyatt often has promotions such as double points for weekend stays or bonus points for completing a certain number of stays.

Step 4: Redeem your points wisely

Once you've earned enough points, it's time to redeem them for free hotel stays. Make sure to choose a hotel that offers good value for your points. Additionally, look for ways to stretch your points further, such as booking during off-peak times or using a combination of points and cash to book a room. I walk through examples below.

Step 5: Make the most of your hotel stay

Finally, once you've scored your free hotel stay, make the most of it! Take advantage of any perks or upgrades that come with your loyalty status or credit card, and don't be afraid to ask for special treatment or upgrades at check-in. After all, flattery can get you pretty far in the hospitality industry!

So there you have it – a step-by-step guide to travel hacking your way into free hotel stays. With a little bit of effort and a lot of charm, you'll be living it up in luxury hotels all around the world in no time. Happy travels!

Still overwhelmed? I can help!

Renee’s examples

Hyatt

This brand is one of my favorites because of the generous points value. Their portfolio includes the Andaz, Hyatt Centric, Park Hyatt, Hyatt Place, the Unbound Collection, and more.
I have the Chase World of Hyatt card, which gives me an annual free night. Also, their sign up bonus gave me 30,000 points. In addition, with this card I get 9 points for every dollar spend at Hyatt properties.
Their point value (according to TPG): is about 1.7 cents/point.
Therefore, I try to shoot for hotels with cash rates above that. For example, I stayed at the Hyatt Regency in Waikiki. It was 20,000 points, but would’ve been about $400 out of pocket. That means I got about 2 cents per point. In addition, because of my status with Hyatt I could use their lounge, which saved me a bunch of money since I ate lots of my meals there.

Marriott

I also love the Marriott brand; they have so many options. Their portfolio includes brands like the Ritz, the W, Sheraton, AC hotels, and Moxy hotels. I have the Chase Marriott card, which includes an annual free night award. I also got 3 additional night certificates as part of their recent sign up bonus.
- Marriott points are valued at 0.77 cents/point. Therefore if you’re redeeming 35K points, try to shoot for a hotel above $270.
- I used my free night award (35K points) at the Tashee Resort in Taiwan, and even got upgraded to a suite because I had status. The cash value was about $570!