Credit Card Review: IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card

The IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card, offered by InterContinental Hotels Group in collaboration with Chase, is a popular choice among frequent travelers. The card offers a range of benefits that make hotel stays more rewarding. This article will delve into these benefits, providing a comprehensive review of the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card.

This card is especially beneficial for those who frequently stay at IHG hotels, with cardholders earning up to 25 points per dollar spent at IHG properties. However, the benefits of this card extend beyond just IHG stays. With the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card, cardholders also earn points on everyday purchases, making it a good choice for those seeking to maximize their rewards.

In addition to earning rewards, the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card also offers a myriad of other benefits such as automatic elite status, anniversary night certificates, and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit. These perks further enhance the card's value, making it a compelling option for frequent travelers.

The Benefits of IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card

One of the most significant benefits of the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card is the ability to earn points on purchases. Cardholders earn up to 25 points per dollar spent at IHG properties. This includes stays at any of the group's 5,200+ properties worldwide, encompassing a diverse portfolio of hotels ranging from luxurious InterContinental properties to budget-friendly Holiday Inn Express hotels.

Beyond IHG stays, the card also offers rewards on everyday spending. Cardholders earn 2 points per dollar spent on purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants. All other purchases earn 1 point per dollar spent. This means cardholders can continue to accumulate points even when they're not traveling, making the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card a versatile rewards card.

The IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card also offers several travel-centric benefits. Cardholders are automatically granted Platinum Elite status, which comes with perks like complimentary room upgrades and late check-out. They also receive a certificate for a free night stay each year on their card anniversary, and a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.

Detailed Review of IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card Features

The IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card features are designed to enhance the travel experience. With Platinum Elite status, cardholders enjoy benefits such as priority check-in, complimentary room upgrades, and late check-out, ensuring a more comfortable stay. They also earn 50% bonus points on top of their base points, further speeding up their rewards accumulation.

Another notable feature is the anniversary free night certificate. Each year, on the anniversary of their card membership, cardholders receive a certificate for a free night stay at eligible IHG hotels. This can be a significant value, especially if used at high-end properties.

The card also offers a unique benefit in the form of a fourth night free on reward stays. When cardholders redeem points for a stay of four nights or more, they only need to redeem points for three nights. The fourth night is automatically free, which can result in significant savings.

How to Maximize the Benefits of IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card

To maximize the benefits of the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card, it's essential to use the card regularly, both for IHG stays and everyday spending. Regular usage will enable cardholders to accumulate points quickly, which can then be redeemed for free hotel stays.

The anniversary free night certificate and fourth night free benefit can also provide substantial value. By strategically using these benefits, cardholders can enjoy extended stays at IHG properties without needing to redeem as many points.

Additionally, with the automatic Platinum Elite status, cardholders should take full advantage of the perks that come with this status. This includes requesting room upgrades, checking out late, and earning bonus points on IHG stays.

Comparison: IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card vs Other Credit Cards

When compared to other hotel credit cards, the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card stands out for its generous earning rates, especially at IHG properties. While other cards may offer higher earning rates in certain categories, few can match the 25 points per dollar on IHG stays.

The card's other benefits, such as the anniversary free night certificate and fourth night free on reward stays, also set it apart from many other hotel credit cards. These benefits can provide substantial value, especially for those who frequently stay at IHG properties.

However, the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card may not be the best choice for everyone. For those who don't frequently stay at IHG hotels or prefer more flexibility in their rewards, other cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred or the Capital One Venture Rewards Card, may be more suitable.

How to Apply for IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card

Applying for the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card is straightforward. Applicants can visit the IHG website or the Chase website and fill out the online application form. The form asks for personal information, including name, address, date of birth, and social security number. It also requires financial information, such as income and employment details.

Once the application is submitted, most applicants will receive a decision instantly. However, in some cases, it may take a few days to process the application. If approved, the card will typically arrive within 7-10 business days.

Tips for Managing an IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card

Managing an IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card effectively requires careful spending and payment habits. Cardholders should aim to pay off their balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. Regularly checking the account online or through the mobile app can also help cardholders keep track of their spending and rewards.

It's also important to use the card regularly to maximize rewards. This includes using the card for everyday spending and IHG stays. Cardholders should also remember to redeem their anniversary free night certificate each year and use their fourth night free benefit when applicable.

Customer Reviews: IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card

Customer reviews of the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card are generally positive. Many cardholders praise the card's generous rewards, especially the high earning rate at IHG properties. The anniversary free night certificate and fourth night free benefit are also frequently mentioned as valuable perks.

However, some cardholders express dissatisfaction with the card's annual fee. While the card does offer a range of benefits that can offset this fee, it may not be worth it for those who don't frequently stay at IHG hotels.

Conclusion: Is IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card Right for You?

The IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card is a valuable tool for frequent travelers, especially those who often stay at IHG properties. With its generous rewards, travel-centric benefits, and versatile redemption options, the card offers significant value.

However, the card's annual fee and focus on IHG stays mean it may not be the best fit for everyone. Those who don't frequently stay at IHG hotels or prefer more flexibility in their rewards may want to consider other options.

In conclusion, the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card offers considerable value for the right cardholder. Those who can take full advantage of its benefits will find it a rewarding choice.

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