Full Review: IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card stands out as a valuable tool for avid travelers dedicated to the IHG brand.

With its hefty sign-up bonus, generous rewards system, and a slew of perks aimed at enhancing the hotel experience, this card is particularly appealing to those who frequent IHG properties.

CreditFinder’s Rating: 4.8/5

Pros:

• High earning potential on IHG stays and daily spending categories.
• Significant sign-up bonus coupled with annual rewards.
• Automatic Platinum Elite status with extensive perks.

Cons:

• $99 annual fee.
• Limited best-use scenario for points redemption.
• Subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule.

Card Details:

• Annual Fee: $99
• Rewards Rate: Up to 26X points at IHG properties, 5X on select daily categories, 3X on other purchases.
• Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 140,000 points after spending $3,000 within the first three months.
• APR: Variable 21.49% to 28.49%.

Rewarding Your Loyalty: Earning and Redeeming Points

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card excels in rewarding hotel stays and everyday purchases:

• Up to 26X points at IHG hotels, combining base points, card earnings, and Platinum status bonuses.
• 5X points on spending at restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores.
• 3X points on all other eligible purchases.

Points are most valuable when redeemed for hotel stays within the IHG network. While other redemption options exist—like gift cards or transferring to airline partners—they generally offer less value. The flexibility to book reward nights without blackout dates and the Fourth Night Free benefit are highlights, enhancing the card’s appeal to frequent travelers.

Platinum Perks and More: Key Benefits

Holding the IHG One Rewards Premier card means enjoying top-tier benefits:

• Platinum Elite Status: Grants you a 50% bonus on base points, room upgrades, late checkouts, and more.
• Annual Free Night: Receive a free night each year on your card anniversary, usable at eligible IHG hotels worldwide.
• $100 Credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck: Every four years, helping speed up your travel process.
• Annual Bonus: Earn 10,000 extra points when you spend $20,000 on your card annually and make one additional purchase.

A Deeper Dive: Is the $99 Annual Fee Justifiable?

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card’s $99 annual fee is easily justified for the frequent traveler through the free night alone, potentially worth far more than the fee. When combined with the annual point bonus, statement credits for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck, and the value from Platinum Elite status, the benefits can significantly outweigh the costs, especially for those loyal to IHG.

Comparing with Competitors: Standout Features

When compared to other hotel rewards cards like the Hilton Honors American Express or the Chase Sapphire Preferred, the IHG One Rewards Premier Card holds its own, particularly for those deeply integrated into the IHG ecosystem. The unique benefits like the Fourth Night Free and comprehensive Platinum Elite perks are tailored to enhance stays at IHG properties, making it a standout choice for brand loyalists.

Optimal Pairings: Best Companion Cards

To maximize rewards across all spending, pairing the IHG One Rewards Premier with a high-earning everyday card like the Chase Freedom Unlimited® enhances your reward structure:

• Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Offers significant cash back on categories not covered extensively by the IHG card, like 1.5% cash back on general purchases.

Final Verdict: A Worthwhile Investment for IHG Enthusiasts

For those who frequently stay at IHG hotels and can fully leverage the array of perks offered, the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is an excellent choice, offering value that can far exceed its annual fee. It’s a powerful tool for elevating your travel experience while accumulating rewards quickly to use towards luxurious hotel stays. For those less frequent to IHG properties or who desire more flexible redemption options, a more general travel rewards card might be preferable.