Best Ways to Use Marriott Bonvoy Points
Where the value is
Marriott Bonvoy prices awards dynamically, so points are worth more at some properties than others. The reliable wins are the fifth night free on a five-night award (a 20 percent discount), annual free-night certificates from Marriott cards (which can exceed the card fee), and high-end or Ritz-Carlton stays where cash rates are steep. See the Marriott Bonvoy guide.
What to avoid
Skip transferring Marriott points to airlines: the ratio is poor (and the old transfer bonus does not rescue it), so you lose value versus redeeming for hotel nights. Also watch dynamic pricing, which can make a night a bad deal in points; always compare the points cost to the cash rate. Marriott does not waive resort fees on awards, unlike some chains.
How to decide
Redeem for nights where points clear roughly 0.8 cent or more against the cash rate, lean on free-night certificates and the fifth night free, and target luxury properties for the best value. Points come in fast through stays and a wide card lineup, so use them rather than hoard. See how to book a hotel with points.
Frequently asked questions
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