I travel for business… A lot. If you don’t believe me, ask my wife and kids. Business travel was fun at first but the novelty soon wore off. It was around that time that I realized I was spending a lot of money on travel but I wasn’t reaping any of the rewards other experienced travelers were talking about. I wasn’t enrolled in any loyalty programs.
Loyalty programs are everywhere. Airlines, car rental companies, grocery stores, drug stores, department stores, and restaurants have all devised programs to keep customers coming back but we’re going to talk about hotels.
Here are three suggestions to help you choose a hotel loyalty program:
Forget About the Loyalty Program (For Now)
When it comes to hotels, we all want different things. Some people like upscale accommodations, others need to observe corporate guidelines and adhere to a strict budget. Sometimes a downtown location works, other times an airport location is a better fit. Some hotel brands are focused on a particular region, other brands provide national coverage.
Select a hotel that meets your criteria but, just as important, select a hotel you’d stay with even if they didn’t have a loyalty program. Choose a hotel where you feel comfortable and welcome.
Choose Rewards That Matter to You
Most loyalty programs offer free nights, room upgrades, and other perks too numerous to mention (early check in, late check out, free Internet, etc.). Personally, I think free stays are wonderful and I appreciate complimentary room upgrades and welcome snacks but I ALWAYS give preference to hotels that award Aeroplan miles.
Choose a loyalty program that offers incentives that will make your life on the road easier – and if you’re serious about maximizing your rewards, choose a hotel that bolsters your Aeroplan / Air Miles account.
Focus Your Spending
Once you’ve selected a hotel (and hotel loyalty program) that provides value and rewards that matter to you, focus all of your spending with that hotel brand. Loyalty programs usually offer an increasing number of benefits based on the number of times a year you stay with them. Your goal should be to acquire top-tier status as soon as possible.
Top-tier status will provide the widest range of benefits, the most Aeroplan /Air Miles per stay, and it demonstrates your commitment to the hotel as a loyal customer. You’ll be first in line to find out about special rates, promotions, and discounts – and there’s nothing quite like being greeted by name as you head to the express check in desk!

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