Dan Whitmer, Rewards Programs Analyst
@dan_whitmer
No, IHG points are not worth buying because each point costs between 1 cent and 1.35 cents per point, depending on the quantity, while they can be redeemed for an average value of only 0.66 cents per point. For example, 1,000 points cost $13.50 to buy but have a redemption value of just $6.6 in hotel stays.
IHG Points Cost vs. Redemption Value
| Number of Points | Cost | Value When Redeemed for Hotel Stays |
| 1,000 | $13.50 | $6.6 |
| 10,000 | $135.00 | $67 |
| 15,000 | $172.50 | $99 |
| 30,000 | $300.00 | $198 |
| 50,000 | $500.00 | $330 |
The best way to use your IHG points is to save them up until you can cover the full cost of a hotel stay. You can earn points by using a IHG credit card or by joining the IHG One Rewards Dine & Earn program to earn points when you dine at participating restaurants.
Ways to Earn IHG Points Without Buying Them
- Use the IHG credit card. You can earn points on eligible purchases with a IHG credit card. These cards offer more points for paying for hotel stays with the card than if you don’t use one, plus they reward you for everyday spending.
- Book hotel stays with an IHG One Rewards number. One of the best ways to earn points without purchasing them is by staying at IHG. Be sure to sign up for the IHG One Rewards loyalty program, which is free to join, before booking your hotel stay to earn points on each stay.
- Use IHG's Dining program. You can earn IHG points by dining at participating restaurants through the IHG One Rewards Dine & Earn program. To get started, create your online account by linking your credit and/or debit cards, and make sure to join using your IHG One Rewards number to ensure your points are credited correctly.
- Partner offers. IHG has partnerships with a range of businesses, allowing you to earn extra points when you use their services or make purchases. These partners include Hertz, cruises, Uber Eats and Uber rides.
You can use IHG points to pay for hotel stays, merchandise, gift cards, and more. You'll get the most value when you redeem them for free hotel stays.
Sometimes, buying points can be worth it. IHG occasionally runs promotions with bonus points—up to 100%—making purchases more valuable. It can also help if you just need a few extra points to book an award stay.
When to Buy IHG Points
- To top off your account – If you're just short on points for an award stay, buying a few can help secure a deal.
- During promotions – IHG often offers bonus points, making purchases more worthwhile.
- For flexibility – Booking with points allows free cancellations and refunds.
You can check out WalletHub’s guide to the IHG One Rewards program for a full breakdown.
People also ask
How much are 50,000 IHG points worth?
50,000 IHG points are worth an average of $330 when redeemed for hotel stays. You'll get the most value for your IHG One Rewards points when you redeem them for IHG reservations, though there are multiple redemption options available.
How Much IHG Points Are Worth
| Number of IHG Points | Average Value |
| 50,000 | $330 |
| 60,000 | $396 |
How many IHG points do you need for a free night?
You need 10,000 to 70,000 IHG points for a free night in a standard room. The exact number of IHG points you will need to cover a one-night stay depends on the type of room you select, the hotel location, and the date of your stay.
It’s also important to note that the IHG program does allow you to pay with a combination of points and cash when booking a stay. Keep that in...
read full answer by Chip Lupo, Credit Card WriterWhat can I do with IHG points?
You can use IHG points for free hotel stays, combine them with cash to save on bookings, or redeem them for gift cards, merchandise, or unique experiences. They can also be transferred to airline partners or used for digital rewards.
IHG One Rewards Redemption Options
- Free Hotel Stays: One of the main ways to use IHG points is by redeeming them for reward nights at IHG properties. Free nights start at just 5,000 points, depending on hotel availability,...
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