The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is an excellent option for those who frequently stay at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) properties. This co-branded credit card offers a variety of benefits for frequent travelers, including rewards points, special perks, and a pathway to earn elite status in the IHG One Rewards program. In this article, we will provide an in-depth overview of the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card, its features, how to apply for it, and how you can make the most out of your card.
Overview of the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is a product of a partnership between IHG and Chase. It is designed to cater to individuals who are loyal to IHG brands, such as InterContinental, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, Staybridge Suites, and Kimpton Hotels. This card allows cardholders to earn IHG One Rewards points for every dollar spent, which can then be redeemed for hotel stays, travel, and other rewards within the IHG network.
Key Features of the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
1. Rewards Points
The most attractive feature of the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is its ability to earn IHG One Rewards points on every purchase. The earning rates are as follows:
- 5 points per dollar spent at IHG hotels and resorts.
- 2 points per dollar on purchases at restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores.
- 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.
The 5 points per dollar on IHG hotel stays can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent travelers. Additionally, these points can be used for free nights, upgrades, and other rewards within the IHG network.
2. Annual Free Night Award
One of the most enticing benefits of the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is the Annual Free Night Award. This award is issued each year after your cardmember anniversary, and it can be redeemed for a free night at any IHG hotel worldwide, with the exception of certain premium properties (subject to availability and terms). This feature makes the card especially valuable for those who enjoy traveling and staying at IHG hotels.
3. Welcome Bonus
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card typically offers an attractive sign-up bonus for new cardholders. At the time of writing, the welcome offer is 140,000 bonus points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. This sign-up bonus is a great way to jumpstart your points balance and use them for future hotel stays or upgrades.
4. Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit
Another benefit that comes with the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee reimbursement. You can receive a statement credit of up to $100 for the application fee when you apply for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, which can help speed up your airport security experience and make your travel more convenient.
5. Elite Status
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card provides cardholders with automatic Platinum Elite status in the IHG One Rewards program as long as the card remains open. This status gives you benefits like room upgrades (when available), early check-in, late check-out, and additional bonus points on qualifying stays. You can also earn more elite status by staying more nights at IHG properties, ultimately leading to the possibility of achieving Diamond Elite status.
6. No Foreign Transaction Fees
For international travelers, the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card does not charge any foreign transaction fees. This is a significant benefit for cardholders who travel abroad and want to avoid extra costs when making purchases in foreign currencies.
7. Travel and Purchase Protections
The card also comes with a variety of protections, including:
- Travel accident insurance: Coverage for certain accidents that occur while traveling.
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance: Reimbursement if a trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons.
- Purchase protection: Coverage for eligible purchases if they are damaged or stolen within a certain time period.
These protections can provide peace of mind when traveling or making significant purchases.
8. Annual Fee
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card comes with an annual fee of $95. This fee is reasonable, especially considering the valuable benefits the card offers, such as the free night award and elite status.
How to Apply for the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
Applying for the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:
- Eligibility Requirements
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- You must have a U.S. address.
- You should have a good to excellent credit score (typically 700 or above).
- Online Application Process The simplest way to apply for the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is through the Chase website. Here are the steps:
- Visit the Chase website or the IHG Rewards program website.
- Look for the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card page.
- Click the “Apply Now” button.
- Fill out the online application form, which will ask for your personal details, such as name, address, Social Security number, and income information.
- Review the terms and conditions, and submit your application.
- Other Ways to Apply
- You can also apply by phone by calling Chase’s customer service.
- If you prefer to apply in person, visit a Chase branch location and speak with a representative who can guide you through the application process.
How to Maximize the Value of the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
To get the most value from the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card, follow these tips:
- Use your card at IHG properties: Take advantage of the 5 points per dollar you earn at IHG hotels. This can quickly add up if you stay at these properties regularly.
- Pay attention to promotions: IHG often runs special promotions that offer bonus points for certain stays or purchases. By participating in these promotions, you can earn even more points.
- Redeem points wisely: Use your points for high-value rewards, such as free hotel nights at IHG properties or point transfers to airline partners if you want to use them for flights.
Conclusion
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is a great option for individuals who stay frequently at IHG hotels and want to maximize their rewards. With a generous points earning structure, a valuable free night award, automatic Platinum Elite status, and a variety of travel protections, this card can provide significant benefits to its cardholders. By applying for this card and using it strategically, you can enhance your travel experience and make the most of your stays with IHG.
To apply for the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card, simply visit Chase’s website or apply in person at a Chase branch. Make sure to review the terms and conditions to ensure this card aligns with your travel and spending habits.
