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The 6 Best Credit Cards for World of Hyatt Loyalists [2024]

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Hyatt may not have the footprint to rival giants Marriott and Hilton, but it proves that bigger is not always better by offering a desirable collection of upwards of 900 properties and a popular rewards program that is nearly cult-like with Hyatt loyalists.

You can’t be a Hyatt fan without considering the benefits of one of the World of Hyatt-branded credit cards, however, as they are a major piece of a total Hyatt persona. The cards complete the triangle of the World of Hyatt-brand hotel experience and the supporting World of Hyatt loyalty program by adding in a long list of Hyatt benefits one receives by having one of the cards.

If you frequent Hyatt properties and you are not yet a cardholder, you may not be able to hold out much longer.

Let’s talk about the benefits of having a World of Hyatt-branded card, how the cards stack up with similar hotel-branded card competitors, and alternative or additional cards that may add value for the Hyatt loyalist or serve to complement their World of Hyatt-branded card.

The Best Credit Cards for World of Hyatt Loyalists — Overview

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CardWelcome Offer and Annual FeeBenefits
The World of Hyatt Credit Card
  • Earn 30,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months and up to 30,000 more points by earning 2x points total on purchases that normally earn 1 bonus point, on up to $15,000 spent, in the first 6 months.
  • Annual fee of $95
  • Up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays
  • Automatic World of Hyatt Discoverist status
  • Category 1-4 Free Night Certificate each year, plus an extra Free Night Certificate after spending $15,000 on the card in a calendar year
  • 5 Elite Qualifying Nights each year, plus the ability to earn 2 more Elite Qualifying Nights for every $5,000 spent on the card
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card
  • Earn 60,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $199
  • Up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays
  • World of Hyatt Discoverist status
  • Up to $100 annual Hyatt statement credit
  • Earn 5 Elite Night Credits for every $10,000 spent on the card
  • Spend $50,000 in a calendar year and get 10% of your redeemed points back for the rest of the year, on up to 200,000 points redeemed
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
  • Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $95
  • 5x points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked through Chase Travel
  • $50 annual statement credit towards hotel purchase through Chase Travel
  • Points are worth 25% more when redeemed through Chase Travel
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $550
  • 10x points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked through Chase Travel
  • Up to $300 annual travel credit
  • Points are worth 50% more when redeemed through Chase Travel
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
  • Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
  • Annual fee of $0
  • 5% cash-back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
  • 3% cash-back on dining and drugstore purchases
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
  • NEW OFFER: Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $95
  • 3x points on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites

The Best World of Hyatt-Branded Credit Cards

Selecting a World of Hyatt-branded card is a simple task as you’ll have either a Chase-issued personal or business card from which to choose. Let’s look at each card option and the associated benefits each card provides for those who frequent Hyatt properties.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

Let’s take a look at why Hyatt fans might consider adding this card to their wallet.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

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.

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.
Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
Up to 60,000 points
$900
$95
21.49% - 28.49% 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)

The World of Hyatt Credit Card makes your Hyatt stays more rewarding and helps you get coveted World of Hyatt elite status faster. This card is a must-have for any traveler who regularly stays at Hyatt hotels, or even for anyone who’s able to take advantage of the card’s annual free night certificate.

When you factor in all the benefits the World of Hyatt card offers, it’s easy to see why it is one of the best co-branded hotel credit cards on the market.

Pros

  • Up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays: 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels and 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • 2x points per $1 at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit, rideshares, and fitness clubs/gym memberships
  • 1x point per $1 on all other purchases
  • 1 Free Night Award each cardmember anniversary (Category 1 to 4)
  • A second Free Night Award when you spend $15,000 on the card
  • Hyatt Discoverist status
  • 5 automatic elite night credits each year
  • 2 elite night credits for every $5,000 spent on the card
  • DoorDash DashPass subscription
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Purchase protection
  • Trip cancellation/interruption and luggage insurance

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
  • Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
  • Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
  • Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
  • Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
  • Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
  • Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays - 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

World of Hyatt

Why We Like This Card for Hyatt Loyalists

  • Up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels plus 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • 2x points at restaurants, flights purchased directly from the airlines, fitness and gym memberships, and for local transit including rideshare, taxi, mass transit, and tolls
  • Complimentary entry-level World of Hyatt Discoverist elite status and earn 2 elite qualifying nights toward higher elite status for every $5,000 spent on the card
  • Complimentary hotel night certificate each calendar year after card anniversary
  • Additional complimentary hotel night certificate after spending $15,000 in a calendar year on the card
  • 5 elite tier night credits each calendar year for having the card

Hot Tip: To learn more about how to earn lots of World of Hyatt points, we’ve got a lot of ideas to share with you. If you want some recommendations on how to get the best value from your points, check out this article offering the best value World of Hyatt point redemptions.

World of Hyatt Business Credit Card

Business owners who frequent Hyatt as their brand of choice will enjoy the perks that come with a World of Hyatt-branded business card.

NEW OFFER
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card

World of Hyatt Business Credit Card

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.

The World of Hyatt Business card provides a solid option for business travelers that are looking to put their expenses on a small business card.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

World of Hyatt Business Credit Card

The World of Hyatt Business card provides a solid option for business travelers that are looking to put their expenses on a small business card.
60,000 Bonus Points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points
$1,200
$199
21.49% - 28.49% 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)

Hyatt loyalists who do their fair share of business travel have been clamoring for the addition of a co-branded Hyatt business credit card for quite some time — and now it’s finally here.

The World of Hyatt Business Credit Card is now available. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about it!

Pros

  • 9x points per $1 spent total for Hyatt stays and experiences: Earn 4x points at Hyatt hotels, participating Small Luxury Hotels of the World, participating Exhale locations, and eligible Lindblad Expeditions. Plus, 5x points spent just for being a World of Hyatt member.
  • 2x points per $1 spent in your top three spend categories each quarter through 12/31/24, then your top two categories each quarter. Eligible categories include: Dining, Shipping, Airline tickets when purchased directly with the airline, Local transit & Commuting, Social Media & Search Engine Advertising, Car Rental Agencies, Gas stations and Internet, Cable & Phone Services.
  • 2x points per $1 spent on fitness club and gym memberships.
  • 1x point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Automatic World of Hyatt Discoverist status
  • Gift World of Hyatt Discoverist status to up to 5 employees
  • Up to $100 annual Hyatt credit — broken up into 2 $50 statement credits
  • Access to the Hyatt Leverage program
  • Earn 5 Elite Night Credits for every $10,000 you spend on the card in a calendar year
  • 10% back on redeemed points after spending $50,000 in a calendar year (with a cap of 20,000 points back per year); this rebate is only valid on stays after spending $50,000 on the card, and any stays prior to meeting that threshold will not be retroactively credited
  • Primary rental car insurance
  • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
  • Purchase protection and extended warranty protection

Cons

  • $199 annual fee
  • Bonus categories and benefits are very similar to the personal card
  • 60,000 Bonus Points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
  • 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 Bonus Points per $1 when you use your card at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent in your top three spend categories each quarter through 12/31/24, then your top two categories each quarter.
  • 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent on fitness club and gym memberships
  • 1 Bonus Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Up to $100 in Hyatt statement credits - spend $50 or more at any Hyatt property and earn $50 statement credits up to two times each anniversary year.
  • 5 Tier-Qualifying night credits toward status and Milestone rewards for every $10,000 you spend in a calendar year.
  • World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open. Plus, Discoverist status to up to five employees
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

World of Hyatt

Why We Like This Card for Hyatt Loyalists

  • $100 Hyatt credit — $50 credit when spending $50+, twice per year
  • Up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays — 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels plus 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • 2x points earning for gym and fitness membership purchases
  • 2x points on 2 of 8 select bonus categories that include dining, airline tickets directly through the airline, local transit and computing, car rental agencies, gas stations, internet/cable/phone services, social media/search engine advertising, and shipping
  • Complimentary entry-level World of Hyatt Discoverist elite status and earn 5 elite qualifying nights toward higher elite status for every $10,000 spent on the card
  • After spending $50,000 on the card, you will receive 10% of points used for redemption in the form of a rebate (maximum 20,000 points)
  • Ability to gift Discoverist status to up to 5 employees
  • 5 elite tier night credits for each $10,000 spent on the card in a calendar year
  • No-fee employee cards

Travel and Shopping Benefits and Protections

World of Hyatt-branded cards also come with several travel and shopping benefits and protections, including the following:

  • Trip Cancellation/Interruption — If your trip is canceled or interrupted due to a covered situation, you could be reimbursed up to $5,000 for prepaid and otherwise non-refundable travel expenses.
  • Trip Delay — If your common carrier trip is delayed more than 12 hours (or overnight), you could receive up to $500 per ticket for incidentals reimbursement.
  • Secondary Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver — Coverage is provided for damage and theft to your rental car secondary to other auto insurance when the entire rental is paid for using your card and you have declined the rental agency’s CDW/LDW coverage.
  • Baggage Delay Insurance — If your baggage is delayed 6 hours or more, you could receive up to $100 per day for up to 5 days.
  • Lost Luggage Reimbursement — Receive up to $3,000 in coverage for checked or carry-on luggage if it is lost, damaged, or stolen.
  • Purchase Protection — If a qualifying item you purchased with your card is damaged or stolen within 120 days from the purchase date, you could receive a benefit of up to $500 per claim (maximum of $50,000 per account).
  • Extended Warranty Protection — The manufacturer’s warranty of 3 years or less that comes with a qualifying item will be extended for 1 year when purchased with your card.
  • Travel Accident Insurance — Receive up to $500,000 for a covered serious injury or death while traveling on a common carrier.

Bottom Line: The Hyatt loyalist will find their Hyatt experience enhanced greatly with a World of Hyatt-branded credit card. The cards come with complimentary elite status and a faster path to higher elite status for those who spend heavily on the cards. The cards also come with several travel and shopping benefits and protections. 

World of Hyatt Elite Status

World of Hyatt-branded cards come with complimentary Discoverist status that normally requires staying 10 nights each year, earning 25,000 qualifying base points, or hosting 3 meetings/events.

Discoverist status is the lowest level of elite status in the World of Hyatt loyalty program but still grants several benefits.

Let’s glance at an overview of what it takes to qualify for World of Hyatt Elite status and what benefits look like at each level:

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BenefitDiscoverist — 10 Nights/25,000 Base Points, or 3 Hosted EventsExplorist — 30 Nights/50,000 Base Points, or 10 Hosted EventsGlobalist — 60 Nights, 100,000 Base Points, or 20 Hosted Events
Bonus Points Earning10%20%30%
Late Checkout2 p.m.4 p.m.4 p.m.
Room UpgradesPreferred RoomUpgraded RoomIncludes Standard Suites
Guaranteed Room Availability 72 hours48 hours
Resort Fees Waived on Eligible Rates  X
Club Access or Breakfast  X
Free Parking on Free Nights  X
Guest of Honor Benefit Sharing  X

All World of Hyatt elite members receive 5 base points for each $1 spent at Hyatt properties, special member rates, waived resort fees on award stays, premium internet, and bottled water.

In addition, elite members receive priority check-in and American AAdvantage Miles Bonuses.

Elite members also have the ability to earn Milestone Awards based on the number of nights stayed each year. Milestone Awards include benefits such as lounge access, bonus points, Hyatt gift cards, suite upgrades, and more.

Hot Tip: Joining the World of Hyatt loyalty program is free and members receive special member-only room rates, earn rewards points, and have resort fees waived on award nights. Learn more about the World of Hyatt loyalty program by reading our in-depth guide to Hyatt elite status which contains information on achieving status, reciprocal benefits with hotel/airline partners, and more.

Hotel-Branded Personal Credit Card Comparison

The World of Hyatt card holds its own among similar-level personal hotel-branded credit cards.

Let’s take a look at how the card stacks up against competitor cards.

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Card EarningsHotel Related Benefits
World of Hyatt card
  • 4x points at Hyatt
  • 2x points at restaurants, on flights purchased directly from the airlines, fitness and gym memberships, and for local transit including rideshare, taxi, mass transit, and tolls
  • 1x points on all other purchases
  • Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
  • Free hotel night certificate each calendar year after card anniversary, good for Category 1-4 properties
  • Additional free hotel night after spending $15,000 in a calendar year
  • 5 elite-tier qualifying nights each calendar year
  • 2 additional elite-tier qualifying nights for each $5,000 spent on the card each calendar year
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
  • Up to 17x points at Marriott
  • 3x on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
  • 2x points for all other purchases
  • Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver elite status
  • Spend $35,000 in a calendar year for Gold status
  • Free hotel night certificate worth up to 35,000 points at card anniversary, plus earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
  • 15 elite night credits each calendar year
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
  • Up to 26x points at an IHG hotel
  • 5x points on travel, gas stations, and restaurants.
  • 3x points on all other purchases

All of these cards come with a generous welcome bonus that is earned after meeting minimum spending requirements within the first 3 months after card approval.

Additionally, note that the number of points earned by spending on the associated hotel-branded credit card will be elevated with the bonus points for having the loyalty program elite status that comes complimentary with each hotel-branded card.

Here’s how the earnings break down by loyalty program:

  • Hilton Honors — a total of 30 points per dollar spent at Hilton properties: 12x points for paying with the card + 18x points for having Gold status
  • IHG One Rewards — a total of 25 points per dollar at IHG properties: 10x points for paying with the card + 10x points for being an IHG One Rewards member + 5x points for having Platinum Elite status
  • Marriott Bonvoy — a total of 17 points per dollar spent at Marriott: 6x points for paying with the card + 10x points for being a Marriott Bonvoy member +10% bonus for Silver Elite status
  • World of Hyatt — a total of 9 points per dollar spent at Hyatt: 4x points for paying with the card + 5x points for being a World of Hyatt elite member

Note that there may be some exceptions to these earning levels as certain hotel brands earn fewer points per dollar for stays. For example, the Tru by Hilton brand earns 5 base points per dollar per stay versus 10. Always check the associated loyalty program for exceptions.

Also, note that the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program offers all members their fifth award night complimentary as does Hilton Honors for its elite members. IHG offers the fourth-night complimentary benefit via its co-branded cards. Hyatt does not offer a free night with award stays via its loyalty program or the World of Hyatt card.

Bottom Line: While the World of Hyatt card may not earn as many points per dollar at the associated hotel brand as its competitors’ cards, Hyatt points can be worth significantly more. To learn more about how much points and miles can be worth, check out our article where we break down the value of the various rewards currencies. 

Alternative or Additional Cards for Hyatt Loyalists To Consider

If you stay at Hyatt properties frequently, chances are you’re a frequent traveler. If so, a travel rewards card that earns flexible points on travel purchases, allows for good value travel redemptions, and offers travel benefits you can use might be a prime consideration.

Here are a few of our favorite travel rewards cards that have the potential for being your go-to travel card or could make an excellent companion for a World of Hyatt-branded card.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (Top Pick)

One of our most recommended cards for getting to know the benefits of earning and redeeming Chase Ultimate Rewards points is the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. It’s a card that will get plenty of use on an everyday basis and it comes with an excellent package of travel and shopping benefits.

POPULAR FIRST CARD
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

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.

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
60,000 points
$1,200
$95
21.49%-28.49% 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)

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros

  • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
  • 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
  • 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
  • 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
  • 2x points on all other travel worldwide
  • $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through the Chase Travel portal
  • 6 months of complimentary Instacart+ (activate by July 31, 2024), plus up to $15 in statement credits each quarter through July 2024
  • Excellent travel and car rental insurance
  • 10% annual bonus points
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs like United MileagePlus and World of Hyatt

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Why We Like This Card for Hyatt Loyalists

  • Generous welcome bonus worth hundreds of dollars in travel
  • Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card transfer to hotel and airline partners, including Hyatt
  • $50 annual hotel credit (when booked via Chase Travel)
  • Earn 3x points per dollar spent at restaurants, select streaming services, and online groceries
  • Earn 2x points on travel and 5x points for booking via Chase Travel
  • Earn 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 2025)
  • Earn 5x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 (through March 31, 2025)
  • 10% anniversary bonus points based on total credit card spending
  • Points can be redeemed for travel on the Chase travel portal at the rate of 1.25 cents each
  • Complimentary DoorDash DashPass subscription; simply activate by December 31, 2024
  • No foreign transaction fees

Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred directly to Hyatt, along with the other Chase transfer partners. The transfer ratio of 1:1 can result in good value when redeeming for select Hyatt properties. Free nights start at just 5,000 points.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

If you’re looking for a premium travel rewards card, you might want to check out the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. Not only will you be earning big on travel, but you’ll also have several options for redeeming your points for travel.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

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.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel.
60,000 points
$1,200
$550
22.49%-29.49% 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.
Excellent (740-850)

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros

  • 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
  • 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
  • 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
  • 5x points on airfare booked through Chase TravelSM
  • 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases; 1x point on all other purchases
  • $300 annual travel credit
  • Priority Pass airport lounge access
  • TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS credit
  • Access to Chase Luxury Hotel and Resort Collection
  • Rental car elite status with National and Avis

Cons

  • $550 annual fee
  • Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Why We Like This Card for Hyatt Loyalists

  • Generous welcome bonus worth hundreds of dollars when redeemed for travel
  • Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred to hotel and airline partners, including Hyatt
  • Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership with access to over 1,400 airport lounge and lounge alternative properties worldwide
  • Earn 3 points per dollar spent on travel and at restaurants
  • Earn 5x points on flights via Chase Travel and 10x points for hotels and car rentals
  • Earn 10x points on Chase Dining
  • Earn 10x points on Lyft purchases (through March 2025)
  • Earn 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 (through March 31, 2025)
  • Points can be redeemed for 1.5 cents each towards travel via the Chase Travel portal
  • $300 statement credit for travel purchases each card anniversary
  • Complimentary DoorDash DashPass subscription (activate by December 31, 2024) and $5 monthly credit
  • No foreign transaction fees

Hot Tip: Both of these featured Chase premium cards offer a Pay Yourself Back benefit for purchases made in the past 90 days in select categories. You can redeem Ultimate Rewards points for statement credits at the rate of 1.25 cents per point on the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and 1.25 to 1.5 cents per point with the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. Want to know more about these 2 travel rewards cards? Check out our side-by-side comparison of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

This no-annual-fee card is a great beginner card that pairs nicely with premium Ultimate Rewards earning cards.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

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.

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
Up to $300 cash back
$0
0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
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)

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.

When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.

Pros

  • 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
  • 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
  • 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
  • 1.5% back on all other purchases
  • No annual fee
  • Earn big on travel purchased through Chase Travel
  • Everyday bonus on dining and drugstores
  • Straightforward cash-back on all other purchases
  • Ability to pool points

Cons

  • 3% foreign transaction fee
  • INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
  • Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
  • After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
  • No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Why We Like This Card for Hyatt Loyalists

  • Earns Ultimate Rewards points that can be transferred to Chase premium cards such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and Chase Sapphire Reserve card then transferred to hotel and airline partners, including Hyatt
  • Points transferred to premium Chase Ultimate Rewards-earning cards can be redeemed for as much 1.5 cents each for travel

The Freedom Unlimited card offers great bonus categories and ensures all of your purchases are receiving rewards. And, with no annual fee, it’s a card you can keep in your wallet forever.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (Best Business Card)

The smart business owner maximizes every opportunity to get ahead. Earning rewards on every purchase your business makes is one way to get ahead because it adds value to your bottom line.

The Ink Business Preferred card, a card we recommend often, serves that purpose well. You’ll earn Ultimate Rewards on every purchase and at redemption time those points can be redeemed for travel or transferred to travel partners for even greater potential value.

NEW OFFER
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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.

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.
Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel
100,000 points
$2,000
$95
21.24%-26.24% 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)

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a powerhouse for earning lots of points from your business purchases, especially for business owners that spend regularly on ads.

Plus the card offers flexible redemption options, including access to Chase airline and hotel transfer partners where you can achieve outsized value.

Business owners will also love the protections the card provides like excellent cell phone insurance, rental car insurance, purchase protection, and more.

Pros

  • 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
  • Cell phone protection
  • Purchase protection
  • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
  • Rental car insurance
  • Extended warranty coverage

Cons

  • No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access
  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 21.24%-26.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Why We Like This Card for Hyatt Loyalists

  • Generous welcome bonus
  • Earns Ultimate Rewards points that can be transferred to World of Hyatt (1:1 ratio) and other hotel/airline partners
  • Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed for 25% more in value via the Chase travel portal
  • 3x points earned for travel purchases, internet/cable/phone, shipping, and advertising purchased through social media and search engines (maximum $150,000 in purchases per year)
  • 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 2025)
  • Primary car rental insurance
  • Trip cancellation/interruption/delay insurance
  • Cell phone protection

Hot Tip: You’ll notice that most of the cards we’ve featured in this article are issued by Chase. The card issuer, unfortunately, has an (unwritten) rule regarding the number of credit cards you have applied for in the last 24 months. The “rule” is referred to as the Chase 5/24 rule and can affect whether you’re approved for Chase credit cards.

Final Thoughts

If you frequent a particular hotel brand, having that hotel chain’s branded credit card can significantly increase your earnings and provide benefits that can make your stay more comfortable.

If you’re a Hyatt loyalist, having a World of Hyatt-branded credit card makes perfect sense. The complimentary night certificate offered each calendar year after the card anniversary on the personal card can be worth the annual fee as the certificate can be used at Category 1-4 properties. For example, you could redeem your certificate at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne, Australia, a Category 4 property, where rates can be as much as $350 per night at peak times.

World of Hyatt-branded cards, like other hotel credit cards associated with a preferred brand, present a value proposition for the Hyatt loyalist. Also, like other hotel-branded cards, these cards may pair well with a general travel rewards card to ensure that all of your expenses are earning the most rewards possible and that you’re receiving a full package of travel benefits and protections.

The information regarding The World of Hyatt Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Hyatt credit card worth it?

If you stay at Hyatt properties, even occasionally, a World of Hyatt-branded card is worth it.

Additionally, if you value World of Hyatt elite status, World of Hyatt-branded cards offer a fast path to get there by granting complimentary entry-level elite status and facilitating a way to spend your way to higher elite status.

The cards also come with travel and shopping benefits that provide protection, potentially saving you money.

Can I have more than 1 Hyatt credit card?

Yes, you can have both a personal and business World of Hyatt-branded card.

How does the Hyatt free night certificate work?

The World of Hyatt card offers a free hotel night certificate good for 1 free night at a Category 1-4 Hyatt property each year at the card anniversary.

Once you have paid your renewal, you will receive your free night certificate within 10 weeks. The certificate is good for 12 months from the date it is issued.

You can earn an additional free hotel night certificate by spending $15,000 in a calendar year on your World of Hyatt card. The certificate will be issued within 2 to 3 weeks after you have completed the spending.

Free night certificates are issued to primary cardholders. Additional authorized users are not eligible for free night certificates.

How much does a free hotel room cost using Hyatt points?

Hyatt properties are divided into 8 categories. A Category 1 property can be purchased starting at just 3,500 World of Hyatt points.

Christine Krzyszton's image

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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