IHG One Rewards Premier: Worth the $99 Fee?
The IHG One Rewards Premier card is a powerhouse for hotel points—perfect for frequent IHG guests. But, its high APR may give you pause.
The Quick Version
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is your go-to for racking up points at IHG hotels. With 26X points for IHG stays, it shines for loyal IHG travelers. However, the annual fee of $99 and a high APR ranging from 21.49%-28.49% might not sit well if you're not a frequent flyer.
What's Inside
This card offers a massive 140,000 point sign-up bonus when you spend $3,000 in the first three months. You'll also earn 5X points on travel, dining, and gas, and 3X points on everything else. The Mastercard network means wide acceptance, and there's no foreign transaction fee, a must for international travelers.
What's Actually Good
The rewards rate is unbeatable if you're staying at IHG properties. The 4th reward night free on award stays is a sweet deal for extending your vacation. No foreign transaction fees make it a solid pick for international trips. Plus, with a good to excellent credit score, you can tap into all these benefits.
The Catch
The annual fee is manageable, but the real kicker is the high variable APR — between 21.49% and 28.49%. Not ideal if you carry a balance. Also, the points expire after 12 months of inactivity, which could be a dealbreaker if you're not a regular IHG guest. Your redemption options are fairly limited outside of IHG, too.
Who It's For
If you practically live in IHG hotels or often find yourself on the road, this card's for you. It's best suited for those who pay their balance in full each month to avoid the high interest. If you're just looking to optimize everyday spending, you might want to look elsewhere.
The Bottom Line
If IHG is your hotel chain of choice, the rewards on this card make the $99 fee worth it. Just watch that APR. If you're more about cash flow and less about points, consider checking out HSBC Purchase Plus: A Cash Flow Savior? for a different approach.
