Choice Privileges® Mastercard: Overview
The Choice Privileges® Mastercard is a rewards credit card designed for those who frequently stay at Choice Hotels.
This card allows cardholders to earn points on their everyday purchases, which can be redeemed for free nights at hotels within the Choice Hotels network.
With no annual fee and the potential for bonus points, it is a compelling option for travelers who prefer a simple and straightforward rewards program.
By using the card for everyday expenses, you can accumulate points towards free stays or travel-related benefits.
Who Should Consider This Card?
This card is ideal for individuals who frequently stay at Choice Hotels or have travel plans that involve hotels in the Choice Privileges network.
If you often stay at popular brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, or Sleep Inn, this card will help you earn rewards that go toward free nights at these hotels.
Additionally, the card is beneficial for those who want to earn points on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and dining that can be redeemed for hotel stays.
Main Benefits of the Card
- Sign-up Bonus: Earn 32,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days. These points are enough for up to three free nights at participating hotels.
- Points on Every Purchase: Earn 2 points for every $1 spent at participating Choice Hotels, 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
- No Annual Fee: The card has no annual fee, making it a low-cost option for earning rewards.
- Special Offers: The card provides exclusive access to member discounts at Choice Hotels, helping you save on hotel stays.
- Complimentary Elite Status: Get automatic Choice Privileges Gold Elite status, which includes perks like early check-in, extended checkout, and bonus points on eligible stays.
Features and Additional Protections
The Choice Privileges® Mastercard comes with various features and protections that enhance its value.
It includes purchase protection against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase, making it useful for those who want peace of mind when shopping.
The card also offers fraud liability protection and zero liability for unauthorized transactions, ensuring that your purchases are secure.
Additionally, it comes with travel assistance services and roadside assistance to help you during your trips.
Fees and Interest Rates
The Choice Privileges® Mastercard has no annual fee, which is a significant advantage for those who want to keep their costs low.
The APR for purchases and balance transfers is variable, typically ranging from 15.49% to 25.49%, depending on your creditworthiness.
The card also charges a foreign transaction fee of 3%, so it may not be the best option for international travelers.
Late payment fees are up to $39, so it’s important to stay on top of your payments to avoid additional charges.
Is the Credit Card Worth It?
The Choice Privileges® Mastercard is a great option for individuals who regularly stay at Choice Hotels and want to earn points on their everyday purchases.
The sign-up bonus and the ability to earn bonus points on stays at participating hotels make it a solid choice for frequent travelers.
However, the card’s foreign transaction fee and the higher APR after the introductory period may make it less appealing for international travelers or those who carry a balance from month to month.
If you prefer simplicity and value a straightforward rewards program, this card can provide excellent value for your hotel stays.
Fees and charges
Late Payment: Up to $40;
● APR: 19.99% - 29.24%;
● Balance Transfer Fee: 5% for each balance transfer, with a minimum of $5;
● Cash Advance: $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction.
Expert review
The Choice Privileges® Mastercard is a great option for frequent travelers who stay at Choice Hotels.
Offering generous rewards like 2 points for every $1 spent at participating hotels and a sign-up bonus of 32,000 points, it allows users to earn free stays quickly.
With no annual fee, the card also provides perks like Gold Elite status, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both rewards and travel benefits.
However, its foreign transaction fee and high APR could be drawbacks for some users.
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+Pros
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 32,000 points after qualifying purchases, which is enough for several free nights at Choice Hotels.
- Rewards Rate: Earn 2 points per $1 spent at participating Choice Hotels, and 1 point per $1 on other purchases.
- Elite Status: Enjoy Gold Elite status at Choice Hotels, offering benefits like early check-in, late check-out, and bonus points.
- No Annual Fee: The card comes with no annual fee, making it an affordable option for frequent travelers.
- Travel Benefits: Enjoy travel-related perks like free Wi-Fi, and special hotel discounts when booking with the card.
- Cons
- High APR: The card has a relatively high interest rate, making it expensive for those who carry a balance.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: A 3% foreign transaction fee can be a disadvantage for international travelers.
- Limited Rewards Flexibility: Points are primarily useful at Choice Hotels, limiting their use for people who prefer other hotel chains or travel rewards.
