Which Hotel Points Expire?

A complete guide to hotel loyalty programme point expiration policies and how to keep your points alive

As someone who juggles multiple hotel loyalty programmes (currently holding Marriott Titanium, Hilton Gold, and Radisson VIP status), I've learned the importance of keeping track of points expiration policies the hard way. Let me share what I've discovered to help you avoid any nasty surprises.

Hotel Programme

Expiration Policy

Best Western Rewards

Never expires

Accor Live Limitless

12 months inactivity

Choice Privileges

18 months inactivity

Hilton Honors

24 months inactivity

IHG One Rewards

12 months inactivity (no expiry for elite members)

Marriott Bonvoy

24 months inactivity (never expires for Lifetime members)

Radisson Rewards

24 months inactivity

World of Hyatt

24 months inactivity

Wyndham Rewards

18 months inactivity OR 4 years from earning (whichever comes first)

The Never-Expires Club

Let's start with the good news - some programmes are wonderfully simple when it comes to expiration policies. Best Western Rewards takes the crown here, with points that never expire regardless of activity. Similarly, if you've achieved Marriott Bonvoy Lifetime Elite status, your points are safe forever (though I'm still working on that one myself!).

Keeping Your Points Alive

The good news is that preventing expiration is typically quite simple. Any earning or redemption activity usually resets the clock. Here are some easy ways to maintain activity:

  1. Book a single night stay (even a cheap one)

  2. Make a small points purchase

  3. Transfer points from credit card programmes

  4. Use dining programmes linked to the hotel loyalty scheme

  5. Donate points to charity (which counts as activity in most programmes)

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Personal Strategy

In my case, I use my Amex Platinum Business card for regular Hilton point earnings, which keeps my Gold status active. For Marriott, my fairly frequent stays mean expiration is never an issue. However, for programmes I use less frequently, I either try not to keep any points in the account, or set calendar reminders at 18 months to check my balances and take action if needed.

Final Thoughts

While keeping track of multiple expiration policies might seem daunting, most programmes are quite generous with their timeframes and ways to maintain activity. The key is staying organised and having a strategy for programmes you use less frequently.

Remember, these points represent real value - I've managed to get some fantastic redemptions over the years, particularly with Hilton & Marriott Bonvoy. Don't let them disappear due to inactivity when a simple transaction could keep them alive.

What's your strategy for managing multiple hotel loyalty programmes? Have you ever lost points to expiration? I'd love to hear your experiences in the comments below.

Safe travels, Jack

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