In the world of travel, loyalty programs can play a significant role in saving money and earning rewards. One such program is IHG One Rewards, which offers members the opportunity to earn and redeem points for hotel stays and other travel benefits. And now, for a limited time, IHG One Rewards is offering a points sale that allows members to purchase points at a discounted rate.
On the same day as last year, IHG One Rewards has brought back its points sale, offering members the chance to buy up to 500,000 points at just 0.5 cents each. This sale may be targeted, so not everyone may have access to the deal. However, for those who do, it presents an excellent opportunity to save money on future travel.
The offer is available to IHG One Rewards members from November 16, 2023, to December 30, 2023. To qualify for the 100% bonus offer, members must make a minimum purchase of 5,000 points per transaction. The maximum number of points that can be purchased during the offer period depends on how many points the member has already purchased in the same calendar year.
Purchased points and any bonus points awarded do not count towards IHG One Rewards Elite status. The offer is exclusive and non-transferable, and it cannot be combined with any other offer. Purchased points are not refundable and can be used for all rewards available through the IHG One Rewards program.
Now, let’s take a look at the numbers. While any purchase of 5,000 points or more will trigger a 100% bonus, the cheapest possible rate for buying points is when you purchase 26,000 points or more. With this promotion, whether you buy 26,000 points or the maximum allowed 250,000 points, you’ll pay just 0.5 cents per point.
So, is this a good deal? Yes, it can be, but it requires some thought and planning. To ensure that the points you buy end up saving you money, you need to have a plan for how you will use them and compare the cash rate to the price you will pay with points.
For example, let’s say you want to stay at the Kimpton La Peer in West Hollywood on a random night in December. The cash rate for that night is $432, including taxes. Alternatively, you could book the same night for 49,000 points, which can be purchased for $245 in this sale. By using points purchased in this sale, you would save over $185.
Here are two more examples:
– The cash cost of a random night in May at the two InterContinental properties in New York ranges from $303 to $375.
– The cost of the same nights in points ranges from 40,000 to 50,000 points.
Again, purchasing points in this sale and using them to book these stays would result in significant savings, ranging from $167 to $208.
However, it’s crucial to note that these examples compare the cost in points to the cheapest rates offered by the properties. In many cases, flexible cash rates can be more expensive than the cheapest rate available, making the savings even greater with a points booking.
To make the right choice about whether or not to buy points in this sale, you should follow these steps:
1. Determine where you would like to visit.
2. Check if your chosen IHG property has award availability for your desired dates.
3. Compare the cash rates for the nights you want to visit.
4. Carry out a similar comparison between the cash rate and the cost to buy points.
5. Only if the math dictates that you will be making a saving by buying points should you proceed with the purchase.
While there are great savings to be made by buying points in this sale, it’s essential to put in a little work and research to ensure you are getting genuine value. No one should buy points without knowing how and when they will use them or without confirming that buying points will result in real savings.
In conclusion, IHG One Rewards is currently offering a points sale that allows members to purchase points at a discounted rate. With some careful planning and research, these points can be used to save money on future hotel stays. However, it is crucial to make informed decisions and compare the cash rate to the cost of buying points to ensure genuine savings. Happy travels!