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Amex Hilton Honors Credit Cards: Comparing the Benefits & Perks [2024]

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Christine Krzyszton

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With 18 hotel brands and 7,000+ properties in 122 countries and territories, it’s no wonder so many travelers are fans of Hilton. You’re sure to find a property that fits your style and budget, no matter where you travel.

The Hilton Honors loyalty program, one of the industry’s best, focuses successfully on rewarding Hilton loyalists and is complemented nicely by the collection of Hilton Honors credit card offerings that also support brand loyalty.

And just as the Hilton brand has a property for every type of traveler, its branded credit cards follow suit with several tailored card options. American Express has created Hilton Honors-branded cards that match your spending patterns, the frequency with which you stay at Hilton, and the level of benefits you desire.

If you stay at Hilton properties, even occasionally, you can benefit from free hotel nights, elite-status perks, and even worldwide lounge access simply by having a Hilton Honors-branded credit card.

With several Hilton Honors cards to choose from, join us as we explore the benefits of each Hilton Honors card to seek out which one is best for you.

Overview

Hilton co-branded credit cards have it all — a welcome offer worth several free hotel nights, accelerated Hilton Honors points earnings, and complimentary elite status. But that’s not all. You’ll find cards with worldwide airport lounge access, statement credits for specific purchases, and additional travel benefits.

Before we get into more of the key benefits of each Hilton co-branded card, let’s take a look at a high-level comparison of welcome offers, annual fees, and Hilton Honors-specific benefits.

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Card

Welcome Offer and Annual Fee

Earnings and Hilton Honors Benefits

Hilton Honors American Express Card
  • Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $2,000 in purchases in the first 6 months. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
  • $0 annual fee (see rates & fees)
  • 7x points at Hilton
  • 6x points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations
  • Complimentary Silver elite status
  • Spend $20,000 for Gold elite status
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
  • Earn 165,000 points after you spend $3,000 in purchases in your first 6 months. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
  • $150 annual fee (rates & fees)
  • 12x points at Hilton
  • 6x points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations
  • 4x points at U.S. online retail purchases
  • Free annual hotel night certificate after spending $15,000 on the card
  • Complimentary Gold elite status
  • Spend $40,000 for Diamond elite status
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
  • Earn 175,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases within first 6 months.
  • $550 annual fee (rates & fees)
  • 14x points at Hilton
  • 7x points on flights via AmexTravel.com or directly with airlines, rental cars, and at U.S. restaurants
  • Up to $400 Hilton Resort credit; Up to $200 airlines incidental credit
  • Complimentary Diamond elite status
  • Free annual hotel night certificate
  • Up to $100 hotel credit at Waldorf Astoria and Conrad properties
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
  • Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after you spend $8,000 in purchases within the first six months. Offer Ends 1/8/2025.
  • $195 annual fee (see rates & fees)
  • 12x points at Hilton
  • Enhanced: 5x points on other purchases on the first $100,000 in purchases each calendar year, 3x points thereafter
  • Complimentary Gold elite status
  • Spend $40,000 for Diamond elite status
  • $240 back each year for eligible purchases made directly with Hilton

Now that we have a good foundation of how the cards compare in these key categories, let’s look closer at some of the additional benefits offered by each of these Hilton co-branded American Express cards.

The Hilton Honors American Express Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER
Hilton Honors American Express CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status, plus great earnings at Hilton, U.S. gas stations, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. restaurants!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status, plus great earnings at Hilton, U.S. gas stations, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. restaurants!
Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
100,000 points
$500
$0
20.24%-29.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

You can’t beat a comfy king-sized bed and room service. For many travelers, it’s the hotel that really makes or breaks an experience. If you’re one of those people, you’ve probably stayed at a Hilton hotel.

Whether your visits are for work or pleasure, the Hilton brand has you covered with more than 6,200 locations in 100 counties and territories.

To enjoy a host of great benefits, you may want to apply for the Hilton Honors American Express Card.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 7x points per $1 on Hilton stays
  • 5x points per $1 at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations
  • 3x points per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • Not great for those who want multiple redemption options
  • Offers the least benefits of all Hilton cards
Card Highlights
  • Earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
  • Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
  • Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
  • Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
  • Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors™ Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
  • No Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Hilton Honors Loyalty Program

If you’re seeking a no-annual-fee card that offers elite benefits, accelerated earnings when staying at Hilton properties, and additional earnings on everyday spending, the Hilton Honors card may work well for you.

Top Reasons To Get the Hilton Honors Card

  • 7x points at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio
  • 5x points at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations
  • 3x points for all other eligible purchases
  • No annual fee
  • Complimentary Silver elite status

The Perfect Cardholder

The perfect cardholder will value the exceptional earning power of the Hilton Honors card and use it for everyday purchases such as groceries, gas, and dining out, so points add up fast.

They may also have a family who looks forward to an annual vacation. Hilton Honors members receive the fifth consecutive award night free, making those points you’ve earned on your Hilton Honors card go much further.

Bottom Line: If Hilton is your brand of choice, you want accelerated earnings, and you value base-level elite benefits but don’t want to pay an annual fee, the Hilton Honors card could be a solid fit.

DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket
Earning free nights is easy with a Hilton Honors-branded credit card. DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket. Image Credit: Hilton

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

An excellent high-earning Hilton credit card that comes with perks like Hilton Honors Gold status and up to $200 in Hilton credits every year.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

An excellent high-earning Hilton credit card that comes with perks like Hilton Honors Gold status and up to $200 in Hilton credits every year.
Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
165,000 points
$825
$150
20.24%-29.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

If you’re someone who loves traveling and loves staying in Hilton hotels, adding a co-branded Hilton hotel card to your wallet is almost a no-brainer. From automatic Hilton elite status to up to $200 in Hilton credits every year, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card can be a great fit for Hilton loyalists looking to up their travel game.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 12x points per $1 at Hilton hotels
  • 6x points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and U.S. restaurants
  • 4x points per $1 at U.S. online retail purchases
Cons
Card Highlights
  • Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
  • Get up to $200 back each year on eligible Hilton purchases after you use your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
  • Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
  • Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
  • Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
  • Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
  • Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
  • Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors ™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
  • Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year.
  • Enjoy complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status. Enrollment in the complimentary Emerald Club® program is required. Terms apply.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
  • $150 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Hilton Honors

The Hilton Surpass card is popular because it kicks things up a notch over the Hilton Honors card with several additional benefits and greater earnings — and all without a high annual fee.

Top Reasons To Get the Hilton Surpass Card

  • 12x points at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio
  • 6x points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations
  • 4x points at U.S. online retail purchases
  • 3x points on all other purchases
  • Free Night Reward after spending $15,000 in a calendar year
  • Hilton Honors Gold elite status
  • Ability to earn Diamond elite status after spending $40,000 in a calendar year

The Perfect Cardholder

The perfect cardholder is comfortable paying a relatively low annual fee to reap the associated benefits of higher earning and Hilton Honors Gold elite status.

The cardholder is a traveler but not necessarily a frequent one as they can maximize the value of the card with just a few trips each year.

Add the value of earning 12x points at Hilton hotels and resorts, plus 6x points on everyday spending, and the card becomes worthy for the traveler who stays, even occasionally, at Hilton.

Bottom Line: The Hilton Surpass card delivers great value for a relatively low annual fee. The complimentary elite status and higher earnings all create value worth more than the annual fee.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

All information about Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.
Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership
175,000 points
$875
$550
20.99% - 29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.


Paying hundreds of dollars for an annual fee on a co-branded hotel card might seem ridiculous, but you should know that the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is much more than your run-of-the-mill hotel credit card.

The Hilton Aspire card is not only a phenomenal card for Hilton Honors loyalists, but even those who visit Hilton hotels just a few times a year can still get excellent value out of all the benefits that are packed into this card.

So let’s have a look at what makes the card so valuable to travelers.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 14x points per $1 on Hilton purchases
  • 7x points per $1 on select travel and at U.S. restaurants
  • 3x points per $1 on all other eligible purchases
Cons
    • High annual fee of $550
Card Highlights
  • Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership
  • Earn 14x Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio
  • Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible travel purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com and on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
  • Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points on dining at U.S. restaurants, including takeout and delivery
  • Earn 3x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for other eligible purchases on your card
  • Enjoy up to $400 in Hilton Resort Credits (up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually) on your card each anniversary year when you stay at participating resorts within the Hilton portfolio
  • Enjoy complimentary Diamond status
  • $550 annual fee
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The Hilton Aspire card offers great benefits and shines as a premium travel rewards card. The card offers extraordinary earnings, complimentary top-level Hilton Honors elite status, statement credits for select purchases, and free hotel nights.

Top Reasons To Get the Hilton Aspire Card

The Perfect Cardholder

The perfect cardholder is a frequent traveler. In addition to staying frequently at Hilton properties, they also value luxury travel perks and the benefits of top-tier elite status.

Hot Tip: Curious how this card stacks up to another premium travel rewards credit card? Check out our head-to-head comparison of the Hilton Aspire card vs. The Platinum Card® from American Express.

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER
The Hilton Honors American Express Business CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

An excellent option for business owners and business travelers who stay at Hilton properties often and want perks like Hilton Honors elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)
An excellent option for business owners and business travelers who stay at Hilton properties often and want perks like Hilton Honors elite status.

Limited Time Offer: Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.

175,000 points
$875
$195
20.24% - 29.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

For frequent business travelers who regularly stay in Hilton hotels, The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is a great option.

Not only will the card help you earn more points on all of your Hilton stays, but you’ll also receive automatic elite status and travel protections.

Here’s a detailed look at all the benefits this card offers so that you can determine if it’s a good fit for you.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • Earn 12x points per $1 on eligible Hilton purchases
  • Earn 5x points on other purchases made for the first $100,000 in purchases each calendar year, 3x points thereafter.
  • Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, and the ability to spend your way to Diamond status
Cons
Card Highlights
  • Limited Time Offer: Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $8,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card within the first six months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 1/8/2025.
  • Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on eligible Hilton purchases.
  • Earn 5X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on other purchases made using the Hilton Honors Business Card on the first $100,000 in purchases each calendar year, 3X points thereafter.
  • Get up to $60 in statement credits each quarter for purchases made directly with a property in the Hilton portfolio on your Hilton Honors American Express Business Card.
  • Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors Business Card. With Hilton Honors Gold status, you can enjoy benefits at hotels and resorts within the Hilton Portfolio. As a Gold member, earn an 80% Bonus on all Base Points you earn on every stay getting you to free nights faster.
  • You may receive an upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond status through the end of the calendar year if the total eligible purchases on your Card Account during a calendar year reach $40,000 or more.
  • As a Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Member, you can enroll to receive complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status through the link on your American Express online account. After you’re enrolled, you can reserve a rental car by calling National Car Rental directly, using your travel service, or by booking online or through the National Car Rental mobile app. Terms apply.
  • Terms apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.24% - 29.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Hilton Honors loyalty program

Own a business and stay at Hilton properties? The Hilton Business Amex card ensures you’ll be enjoying elite status while you travel.

Top Reasons To Get the Hilton Business Amex Card

  • 12x points at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio
  • 5x points on other purchases for the first $100,000 each calendar year; 3x points thereafter
  • Hilton Honors Gold elite status
  • Ability to earn Diamond elite status after spending $40,000 on the card in a calendar year
  • $240 back each year for eligible purchases made directly with Hilton

The Perfect Cardholder

The frequent business traveler who appreciates luxury travel benefits, spends a lot on travel, and chooses Hilton as their brand of choice is the perfect cardholder. They’re also savvy and understand the value they’ll receive for such a low annual fee.

If you’re a small business owner or head of a much larger enterprise, you’ll experience elevated earnings on purchases business travelers make most often and accumulate points quickly.

Conrad Hong Kong
Enjoy complimentary lounge access with Hilton Honors’ top elite status. Conrad Hong Kong. Image Credit: Hilton

Complimentary Elite Status

The Value of Hilton Honors Elite Status

Prior to securing a Hilton Honors card, you’ll want to sign up for the Hilton Honors rewards program. Just for signing up, you’ll receive perks such as member discounts, free Wi-Fi, and late checkout.

The benefits of elite status are many and grow increasingly more valuable the higher you climb on the elite-status ladder.

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Benefits

Member

0 to 9 nights/year

Silver

10 to 39 nights/year

Gold

40 to 59 nights/year

Diamond

60 to 74 nights/year

Guaranteed Member Discount

X

X

X

X

Points Towards Free Nights

X

20%

80%

100%

No Resort Fees on Award Stays

X

X

X

X

Digital Check-in and Choose Your Room

X

X

X

X

Digital Key

X

X

X

X

In-room and Lobby Wi-Fi

Standard

Standard

Standard

Premium

Second Guest Stays Free

X

X

X

X

Late Checkout

X

X

X

X

Free Transfer of Points and Points Pooling

X

X

X

X

Fifth Standard Rewards Night Free

 

X

X

X

2 Bottles of Water

 

X

X

X

Elite Tier Rollover Nights

 

X

X

Space-available Room Upgrade

 

 

Up to Executive Room Type

Up to 1-Bedroom Suite Room Type

Complimentary Breakfast at all hotels

 

 

X

X

Unlimited Milestone Bonuses

 

 

X

X

72-Hour Early Upgrade

 

 

X

X

Executive Lounge Access

 

 

 

X

Diamond Status Extension

 

 

 

X

48-Hour Room Guarantee

 

 

 

X

Elite Status Gifting

 

 

 

X

Hilton Honors-branded Cards Provide a Faster Path to Elite Status

Normally you’d need to have 4 stays or 10 nights per year to reach Silver elite status, 20 stays or 40 nights for Gold, and 30 stays or 60 nights for Diamond. You can also reach these elite levels when earning 10,000, 75,000, and 120,000 base points, respectively, by spending at Hilton properties.

If you want complimentary Hilton Honors elite status without having to worry about the number of stays, nights, or amount you spend at Hilton each year, holding a Hilton Honors credit card can solve that dilemma.

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Hilton Honors Card

Comes With:

Spend Your Way To:

Hilton Honors card

Silver

Gold after spending $20,000 on the card in a calendar year

Hilton Surpass card
Hilton Business Amex card

Gold

Diamond after spending $40,000 on the card in a calendar year

Hilton Aspire card

Diamond

N/A

To learn more about Hilton Honors elite status, the associated benefits, and how to qualify, explore our comprehensive guide to Hilton status.

Bottom Line: For complimentary Hilton Honors elite status, there’s no faster or easier way to acquire it than having a Hilton Honors-branded credit card. 

Where Hilton Honors Points Can Take You

A welcome offer on a Hilton Honors-branded card can exceed 100,000 Hilton Honors points. A free hotel night can range from 5,000 points per night at the very low end, however, you’re likely to spend as much as 95,000 or more — per night — for a luxury resort property.

Here are just a couple of redemption examples:

Conrad Bali (Indonesia) 

Conrad Bali
If you’re looking for a luxurious free hotel night, the Conrad Bali has it, and it’s a good value for your points. Image Credit: Hilton

The recently renovated Conrad Bali is a luxurious beachfront resort; its Balinese-inspired rooms offer private balconies or terraces, flat-screen TVs, and granite bathrooms.

There are 3 restaurants to choose from, featuring Asian and seafood cuisine, as well as a poolside bar and a lobby lounge. The resort also has lagoon-style swimming pools, a spa, gym, Kura-Kura Kids Club, and cultural activities on offer.

We found standard room rates for 42,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Kuala Lumpur can be booked for as few as 14,000 Honors points per night. Image Credit: Hilton

One of Hilton’s best-value hotels, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Kuala Lumpur is a 5-star property located in The Intermark shopping complex (which offers plenty of retailers and restaurants).

Rooms feature space to work, a minibar, a flat-screen TV, and an open-concept marble bathroom with a separate walk-in rain shower.

There are 4 eateries, as well as an outdoor saltwater pool, executive lounge, and 24-hour fitness center.

To stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Kuala Lumpur, you’ll need to redeem just 20,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a standard room. You could also secure a Hilton Garden Inn nearby for as few as 7,000 points.

Prices were accurate at the time of writing. Be sure to check current pricing prior to booking. 

Hot Tip: If you want more ideas for properties you can book with your Hilton Honors points, here are the best ways to redeem Hilton points for maximum value and the best Hilton luxury hotels you can book with points.

Additional Benefits

All Hilton Honors-branded cards come with additional travel/shopping benefits and protections. Let’s take a look.

Travel Benefits and Protections

  • Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance: Pay for your rental car in full with your eligible card and receive secondary rental car coverage if the car is damaged or stolen. You’ll also have the option to purchase Premium Protection for one low fee that covers the entire rental period ($12.95 to $24.95). Limits apply
  • Premium Global Assist: 24/7 worldwide assistance for legal, financial, and medical emergency referral services.

Shopping Benefits and Protections

  • Purchase Protection: Receive coverage for up to 90 days from the date of purchase for eligible items purchased with your card. The maximum limit for coverage is $1,000 per incident on all Hilton Honors cards with the exception of the Hilton Aspire card which has a $10,000 limit.
  • Extended Warranty: Eligible items purchased with your card that have manufacturer’s warranties of 5 years or less receive 1 additional year. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per item.

Please note that this is not a complete list of card benefits and that the coverage descriptions are abbreviated. You can find a list of all associated benefits by accessing the specific card’s Guide to Benefits.

Final Thoughts

Just as there’s a Hilton property suited for every type of traveler, there’s a Hilton Honors card that matches up with the needs of every type of Hilton traveler.

  • The Hilton Honors card offers good earning potential, complimentary elite status, and has no annual fee.
  • The Hilton Surpass card has a low annual fee but comes with accelerated earnings, 10 airport lounge passes, and Gold elite status.
  • For the frequent traveler who wants it all, the premium Hilton Aspire card wraps up top-tier elite status, high earning potential, free hotel nights, and hundreds of dollars in statement credits.
  • For the business owner, the Hilton Business Amex card delivers elevated earnings and luxury benefits.

There truly is a Hilton Honors card for every type of Hilton traveler.

For the car rental collision damage coverage benefit of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, and Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, car rental loss and damage insurance can provide coverage up to $50,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the commercial car rental company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car rental loss or damage coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, and Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for covered persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the entire fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible account. Coverage can be provided for up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus). For New York State residents, there is a $10,000 aggregate maximum limit for all covered persons per covered trip. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. For the extended warranty and purchase protection benefits of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, and Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, when an American Express® card member charges a covered purchase to an eligible card, extended warranty can provide up to one extra year added to the original manufacturer’s warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.  For the Global Assist Hotline benefit of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, and Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, you can rely on Global Assist Hotline 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for medical, legal, financial or other select emergency coordination and assistance services while traveling more than 100 miles away from your home. Third-party service costs may be your responsibility. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

For the car rental collision damage coverage benefit of the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, car rental loss and damage insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the commercial car rental company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car rental loss or damage coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for covered persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the entire fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per covered trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each covered person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all covered persons per covered trip. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. For the extended warranty and purchase protection benefits of the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, when an American Express® card member charges a covered purchase to an eligible card, extended warranty can provide up to one extra year added to the original manufacturer’s warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. For the Premium Global Assist Hotline benefit of the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, you can rely on the Global Assist Hotline 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for medical, legal, financial or other select emergency coordination and assistance services while traveling more than 100 miles away from your home. Plus, we may provide emergency medical transportation assistance and related services. Third-party service costs may be your responsibility. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. If approved and coordinated by Premium Global Assist Hotline, emergency medical transportation assistance may be provided at no cost. In any other circumstance, Card members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers. 

The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees for The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, click here.
For rates and fees of The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the points I earn on Hilton Honors credit cards count towards elite status?

The points you earn by spending on your Hilton Honors-branded card do not count toward elite status.

Base points that count toward elite status are earned by staying at Hilton properties.

You will, however, earn bonus points by using your Hilton branded card to pay for stays. Additionally, some Hilton Honors credit cards offer elevated elite status for reaching certain spending thresholds on your card each calendar year.

Do Hilton Honors points expire?

Hilton Honors points expire after 2 years of account inactivity. Activity is defined as either earning or redeeming points.

How does the Hilton Honors free night work?

The Hilton Aspire card, Hilton Surpass card, and Hilton Business Amex card all offer free hotel night certificates. You can earn these free hotel nights as part of a promotional welcome bonus, as a benefit at account anniversary renewal, or after meeting certain spending thresholds on your card.

The free night certificate will be deposited in your account once it’s earned and will then be ready to use.

The free night can be used at any Hilton property with the exclusion of some high-end hotels or resorts.

Once you’ve earned your certificate, just call Hilton to use it.

Certificates do have an expiration date but you will not lose a certificate if you cancel your credit card as long as the certificate is in your account.

How many Hilton Honors points does it take for a free hotel night?

You can secure a free hotel night for as few as 5,000 Hilton Honors points for a standard room.

However, you may pay as much as 120,000 points for a free hotel night at a premium property during peak seasons.

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About Christine Krzyszton

Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

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