New Perks, More Rewards & Flexibility Like Never Before!

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IHG One Rewards Launch

A few months ago, IHG Hotels and Resorts announced a major refresh for their brand and loyalty program. When we learned of new elite tiers coming to the program, we saw a full refresh of their Chase co- branded credit card offerings, but now we have learned about the rest of the changes. The new name and logo of IHG One rewards is more flexible for members than before. Let's dive in.

Welcome to IHG One Rewards

The new loyalty program is called IHG One rewards. There is a new logo with a singular icon. The company describes the new name.

The One rewards program is a celebration of individuality and is a nod to the long-term values of the program.

IHG One Rewards Elite Tiers & New Benefits

There are five elite membership tiers with increased earn bonuses. Late checkout and other benefits have been added for their Platinum and Diamond Elite members. I will highlight some of the more exciting changes below after taking a look at the new IHG One Rewards elite status tiers and benefits.

New IHG One Rewards Member Benefits

The new benefits will be added in early June. I think there are some exciting and significant benefits for IHG One rewards members.

• Late Check-Out – All program members from the “Club” level all the way up to Diamond Elite will receive a late 2pm check-out (subject to availability)
• Free breakfast choice for Diamond Elite members – Top-tier Diamond Elite members will have the choice of a free hot breakfast for two as their welcome amenity. This benefit will be available at most IHG Hotels & Resorts full service properties
• Rewards Nights Discounts – Platinum and Diamond Elite members receive exclusive access to rewards night discount promotions
• More Upgrades – Platinum & Diamond Elite members will have more opportunities to receive early check-in as well as room upgrades (subject to availability)
• Dedicated Diamond Support – Diamond Elite members will have access to a dedicated support team

Milestone Rewards

In addition to increased earning and the new benefits coming in early June, IHG One rewards will also feature Milestone rewards. The perks that matter most to members of the Milestone rewards program. Every 10 nights, members will have a choice of rewards until they reach 100 nights under the program. The program looks like this:

A Closer Look at IHG One Rewards’ Milestone Rewards

The rewards are given at the beginning of every 10 nights stayed. This is lower than what their competitors offer. There are a variety of perks that members can choose from. Let's take a closer look at them.

• Bonus points – Bonus points can be chosen starting at 20 nights and are available at every milestone level
• Food & beverage rewards – Food & beverage vouchers are good for up to a maximum of $20 per voucher
• Confirmable suite upgrade –  At 20, 40 and 70 nights members can choose a confirmable suite upgrade. This allows a member to confirm a standard suite 14 or more days before their stay by calling IHG One Rewards. Each confirmable suite upgrade certificate can be used for one stay of up to 5 nights
• Annual lounge membership – This perk can be chosen at 40 or 70 nights and includes a lounge membership that is good for the rest of the calendar year in which it was earned plus the next 12 months. It allows lounge access for up to two people at most IHG Hotels & Resorts properties

New IHG One Rewards App

There are new earning opportunities, elite tiers and benefits, as well as a brand new app that is being launched by IHG One rewards. The app allows members to stay informed, check-in faster, connect to the hotel and travel with flexibility. It will be available to all IHG One rewards members soon.

IHG One Rewards Launch – Bottom Line

The launch of their new program is making waves. Many travelers are looking for flexibility and perks. As a result of the changes, IHG One rewards now have better earning, better upgrades, late checkout, free breakfast and more. Valuable rewards include lounge access, confirmable suite upgrades and food and beverage credit. The new program gives members more control than ever before.

Cover Photo: Six Senses Fiji – Courtesy IHG Hotels & Resorts

Chase Freedom unlimited has an extra cash back bonus.

Right now, Chase Freedom Unlimited has an increased offer. You can earn an additional 1.5% back in all categories if you spend up to $20K in the first year. There is no yearly fee.

There are additional card benefits.

• With the extra 1.5% cash back through the welcome offer you can earn (on up to $20K spend):
  • 6.55% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service
  • 3% cash back on all other purchases
• 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases

You can learn more about this card.

The author's opinions, reviews, analyses, and recommendations have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.