Your Travel Guide From An OCD Guy
Guide

Maximizing travel rewards: is the marriott credit card the key or a waste of plastic?

Hi there! I'm Zachary, the founder and lead writer of this travel blog. I'm on a mission to help fellow adventurers, explorers, and tourists make the most of their journeys around the world. A little about me - I'm a self-proclaimed travel addict with a slight case of OCD. From...

What To Know

  • Offers a 150,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 6x on Marriott stays, 2x on dining, and 2x on gas.
  • Offers a 100,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 6x on Marriott stays, 4x on gas and office supplies, and 2x on dining.
  • Offers a 100,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 3x on Marriott stays and 2x on all other purchases.

When it comes to choosing a credit card, one of the most important factors to consider is whether it aligns with your spending habits and travel preferences. For frequent travelers who seek exclusive benefits and rewards, the Marriott credit card family offers an enticing proposition. But before you sign up, it’s crucial to assess whether the card is worth the investment. This comprehensive guide will delve into the benefits, fees, and rewards of Marriott credit cards to help you make an informed decision.

Benefits of Marriott Credit Cards

1. Generous Welcome Bonus:
Marriott credit cards offer substantial welcome bonuses, ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. These points can be redeemed for free hotel stays, flights, and other travel experiences.

2. Elite Status Perks:
With certain Marriott credit cards, you can earn elite status in the Marriott Bonvoy program, unlocking exclusive benefits such as room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and priority check-in.

3. Earn Points on Everyday Spending:
Marriott credit cards allow you to earn points on all eligible purchases, including dining, travel, and gas. This makes it easy to accumulate points towards future rewards.

4. Free Night Certificates:
Some Marriott credit cards offer free night certificates, which can be redeemed for a complimentary hotel stay at select properties.

5. Points Multiplier on Marriott Stays:
Marriott credit cards offer a points multiplier on hotel stays booked directly with Marriott. This allows you to earn additional points for every dollar spent.

Fees Associated with Marriott Credit Cards

1. Annual Fee:
Most Marriott credit cards have an annual fee, ranging from $95 to $450. The annual fee is typically offset by the value of the welcome bonus and rewards earned.

2. Foreign Transaction Fees:
Some Marriott credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee of 2.75% on purchases made outside the United States.

Is Marriott Credit Card Worth It?

The answer to this question depends on your individual spending habits and travel preferences. If you frequently stay at Marriott properties and value elite status benefits, a Marriott credit card can be a worthwhile investment. The welcome bonus, points multiplier, and free night certificates can provide substantial savings on hotel stays.

However, if you rarely travel or prefer other hotel chains, the annual fee and foreign transaction fees may outweigh the benefits. In this case, a more general travel rewards credit card may be a better option.

Choosing the Right Marriott Credit Card

Marriott offers a range of credit cards tailored to different needs and spending levels. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card: Offers a 100,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 6x on Marriott stays.

2. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card: Offers a 150,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 6x on Marriott stays, 2x on dining, and 2x on gas.

3. Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card: Offers a 100,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 6x on Marriott stays, 4x on gas and office supplies, and 2x on dining.

4. Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card: Offers a 100,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 3x on Marriott stays and 2x on all other purchases.

Maximizing the Value of Marriott Credit Cards

1. Use the Card for Eligible Purchases:
Maximize your points earnings by using your Marriott credit card for all eligible purchases.

2. Take Advantage of Elite Status Benefits:
If you have elite status, make sure to use your benefits to enhance your travel experience.

3. Redeem Points Wisely:
Redeem your Marriott Bonvoy points for the best value. Consider using them for off-peak stays or special promotions.

4. Refer Friends and Family:
Earn additional points by referring friends and family to Marriott credit cards.

Alternatives to Marriott Credit Cards

If you’re not sure whether a Marriott credit card is right for you, here are some alternative travel rewards credit cards to consider:

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: Offers a 60,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 2x on travel and dining.

2. American Express Gold Card: Offers a 90,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 4x on dining and groceries.

3. Citi Premier Card: Offers a 80,000-point welcome bonus and a points multiplier of 3x on dining, gas, and travel.

The Bottom Line

Whether or not a Marriott credit card is worth it depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you frequently stay at Marriott properties and value elite status benefits, a Marriott credit card can be a valuable addition to your wallet. However, if you prefer other hotel chains or travel infrequently, an alternative travel rewards credit card may be a better choice. By carefully considering the benefits, fees, and rewards of Marriott credit cards, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and travel aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best Marriott credit card for beginners?
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card is a good option for beginners as it has a low annual fee and offers a generous welcome bonus.

2. Can I use Marriott Bonvoy points for flights?
Yes, you can redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for flights through the Marriott Bonvoy travel portal.

3. What is the elite status requirement for Marriott credit cards?
The elite status requirement for Marriott credit cards varies depending on the card. Some cards offer automatic elite status, while others require a certain number of nights stayed or points earned.

Was this page helpful?

Zachary Cooper

Hi there! I'm Zachary, the founder and lead writer of this travel blog. I'm on a mission to help fellow adventurers, explorers, and tourists make the most of their journeys around the world. A little about me - I'm a self-proclaimed travel addict with a slight case of OCD. From triple checking my bags before a flight to color-coding my itineraries, I like to stay organized and on top of every little detail when I travel. But don't worry, my attention to detail just means you can rely on my advice to be thorough and accurate!
Back to top button