Choice Privileges Program: How to Earn and Redeem Points, Elite Status, and More

In the competitive world of hotel loyalty programs, Choice Privileges stands out as a versatile and rewarding option for travelers. Whether you’re a frequent business traveler, a family vacationer, or a solo adventurer, the Choice Privileges program offers a range of benefits that can enhance your travel experience. From earning and redeeming points to achieving elite status, this program is designed to cater to a wide variety of travel needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Choice Privileges program, including how to maximize your points, the perks of elite status, and how to use your rewards to explore stunning destinations like the Kerala backwaters, the Maldives, the Rocky Mountains, and the Swiss Alps.

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What is the Choice Privileges Program?

Choice Privileges is the loyalty program of Choice Hotels International, a global hotel chain with over 7,000 properties across 40 countries and territories. The program allows members to earn points for stays at participating hotels, which can then be redeemed for free nights, gift cards, merchandise, and more. With a diverse portfolio of brands, including Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Clarion, Cambria Hotels, and Ascend Hotel Collection, Choice Privileges offers something for every type of traveler.

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How to Earn Choice Privileges Points

Earning points with Choice Privileges is straightforward and offers multiple avenues to accumulate rewards quickly. Here are the primary ways to earn points:

1. Stay at Choice Hotels

The most common way to earn points is by staying at any of the participating Choice Hotels properties. Members earn 10 points per dollar spent on eligible room rates. This means a $100 stay will net you 1,000 points. Additionally, elite members earn bonus points based on their status level.

2. Use the Choice Privileges Credit Card

The Choice Privileges Visa Credit Card is a powerful tool for earning points. Cardholders earn points on everyday purchases, including:

• 5 points per dollar spent at Choice Hotels
• 3 points per dollar spent on gas, groceries, and airfare
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases

The card also offers a generous sign-up bonus, often ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 points after meeting the minimum spending requirement.

3. Take Advantage of Promotions

Choice Hotels frequently runs promotions that allow members to earn bonus points for stays during specific periods. For example, you might earn double or triple points for booking directly through the Choice Hotels website or app. Keep an eye on your email and the Choice Privileges website for these limited-time offers.

4. Partner Offers

Choice Privileges has partnerships with various companies, allowing members to earn points through non-hotel activities. These include:

• Car Rentals: Earn points when you rent with Avis or Budget.
• Dining Rewards: Link your Choice Privileges account to the Rewards Network and earn points when dining at participating restaurants.
• Shopping Portals: Use the Choice Privileges online shopping portal to earn points on purchases from popular retailers.

5. Transfer Points

While Choice Privileges does not have a direct points transfer program with airlines or other hotel chains, you can transfer points to and from family members or friends who are also Choice Privileges members. This can be useful for pooling points to book a reward stay.

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How to Redeem Choice Privileges Points

One of the most appealing aspects of the Choice Privileges program is the flexibility it offers when redeeming points. Here’s how you can use your hard-earned rewards:

1. Free Nights

The most popular redemption option is for free hotel stays. Choice Privileges uses a dynamic pricing model, meaning the number of points required for a free night varies based on the property, location, and demand. On average, free nights start at 8,000 points per night for budget properties and can go up to 35,000 points or more for upscale hotels.

2. Points + Cash

If you don’t have enough points for a free night, you can use the Points + Cash option. This allows you to combine points with cash to book a room, often at a reduced rate. For example, you might be able to book a 150roomfor6,000points+150roomfor6,000points+50.

3. Gift Cards and Merchandise

Choice Privileges points can also be redeemed for gift cards to popular retailers, restaurants, and online stores. Additionally, you can use your points to purchase merchandise from the Choice Privileges rewards catalog.

4. Experiences

For those looking for unique experiences, Choice Privileges occasionally offers special redemption options, such as concert tickets, sporting events, or exclusive travel packages.

5. Donate Points

If you’re feeling charitable, you can donate your points to Choice Hotels’ charitable partners, such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

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Elite Status: Perks and How to Achieve It

Choice Privileges offers three elite status tiers: Member, Gold Elite, and Platinum Elite. Each tier comes with its own set of benefits, designed to enhance your stay and reward your loyalty.

1. Member

All new members start at this basic tier, which includes:

• 10 points per dollar spent
• Exclusive member rates
• Early check-in and late checkout (subject to availability)

2. Gold Elite

To achieve Gold Elite status, you need to complete 10 eligible nights or 5 stays in a calendar year. Benefits include:

• 20% bonus points on stays
• Room upgrades (subject to availability)
• Priority check-in

3. Platinum Elite

Platinum Elite is the top tier, requiring 20 eligible nights or 10 stays in a calendar year. Benefits include:

• 30% bonus points on stays
• Complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability)
• Guaranteed room availability (booked at least 72 hours in advance)
• Welcome gift at check-in

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Maximizing Your Choice Privileges Points for Dream Destinations

One of the best ways to use your Choice Privileges points is to book stays at stunning destinations around the world. Here’s how you can leverage your points to explore some of the most beautiful places on Earth:

1. Kerala Backwaters, India

The serene backwaters of Kerala are a must-visit for anyone seeking tranquility and natural beauty. With your Choice Privileges points, you can book a stay at a participating hotel near the backwaters and enjoy activities like houseboat cruises, village tours, and Ayurvedic treatments.

Recommended Property: Comfort Inn Kochi

• Points Required: 8,000–12,000 points per night
• Highlights: Proximity to the backwaters, comfortable accommodations, and excellent service.

2. Maldives

The Maldives is synonymous with luxury and relaxation. While Choice Hotels doesn’t have properties in the Maldives, you can use your points to book a stay at a nearby destination and then take a short flight to this tropical paradise.

Recommended Property: Clarion Hotel Colombo Airport, Sri Lanka

• Points Required: 10,000–15,000 points per night
• Highlights: Convenient location for a Maldives trip, modern amenities, and a complimentary airport shuttle.

3. Rocky Mountains, USA

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Rocky Mountains offer endless opportunities for adventure. Use your points to book a stay at a Choice Hotels property near national parks like Yellowstone or Rocky Mountain National Park.

Recommended Property: Quality Inn Near Yellowstone

• Points Required: 12,000–18,000 points per night
• Highlights: Close proximity to Yellowstone, free breakfast, and stunning mountain views.

4. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

The Swiss Alps are a dream destination for skiers and nature lovers alike. Use your points to book a stay at a Choice Hotels property in Switzerland and enjoy the breathtaking alpine scenery.

Recommended Property: Comfort Hotel Expo Zurich Airport

• Points Required: 15,000–25,000 points per night
• Highlights: Easy access to the Alps, modern rooms, and a complimentary airport shuttle.

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Tips for Maximizing Your Choice Privileges Experience

1. Book Directly: Always book directly through the Choice Hotels website or app to earn the most points and take advantage of exclusive member rates.
2. Combine Points and Cash: Use the Points + Cash option to stretch your points further.
3. Stay During Promotions: Take advantage of bonus point promotions to accelerate your earnings.
4. Achieve Elite Status: Aim for Gold or Platinum Elite status to enjoy additional perks like room upgrades and bonus points.
5. Plan Ahead: Book reward stays early, especially for popular destinations, to ensure availability.

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Conclusion

The Choice Privileges program is a valuable tool for travelers looking to save money and enhance their travel experiences. With multiple ways to earn and redeem points, as well as the benefits of elite status, this program offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, the luxurious beaches of the Maldives, the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, or the majestic Swiss Alps, Choice Privileges can help you make the most of your journey. Start earning points today and turn your travel dreams into