World of Hyatt Credit Card Review (2025): Benefits, Rewards & Value
The best hotel credit card for value, with points that go further than other hotel programs.
World of Hyatt Credit Card Guide
The best hotel credit card for value, with points that go further than other hotel programs.
ANNUAL FEE
$95
WELCOME BONUS
30,000 Hyatt points after spending $3,000 in 3 months
POINTS VALUE
~1.7¢ per point for Hyatt hotel stays
TRANSFER PARTNERS
0
In This Guide:
Transfer Partners
| Transfer Partner | Transfer Ratio | Transfer Time | Transfer Bonuses |
|---|
Annual Credits & Benefits
Annual Free Night Certificate
Annual (after account anniversary)
Certificate valid for one free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt property worldwide.
Pro Tip: Use this at Category 4 properties that typically cost $250-350 per night to maximize value, such as Hyatt Centric properties in major cities or resort locations.
Additional Free Night Certificate
After spending $15,000 in a calendar year
Earn a second free night certificate after reaching the spending threshold.
Pro Tip: If you plan to spend at least $15,000 annually, time your spending to earn this certificate before planning a trip where you can use both certificates consecutively.
Is the World of Hyatt Credit Card Worth the $95 Annual Fee?
Ideal For:
- Hyatt Stays
- Free Night Certificates
- Elite Status
Not Ideal For:
- Infrequent travelers who rarely fly or stay at hotels
- Those who prefer cash back over travel rewards
- Budget-conscious consumers who don't want to pay an annual fee
Value Calculation Example
Here's a conservative estimate of annual value for a typical cardholder who uses most, but not all benefits:
| Benefit | Face Value | Realistic Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Welcome Bonus | $30 | $30 | First year only |
| Annual Free Night Certificate | One free night at Category 1-4 properties | One free night at Category 1-4 properties | Annual (after account anniversary) |
| Additional Free Night Certificate | One free night at Category 1-4 properties | One free night at Category 1-4 properties | After spending $15,000 in a calendar year |
| Free night certificate annually (Category 1-4) | $100+ | $100 | Estimated value |
| Automatic Discoverist status | $100+ | $100 | Estimated value |
| Annual Fee | -$95 | -$95 | Yearly cost |
| TOTAL VALUE | Varies | Varies | $1,000+ over annual fee |
This calculation doesn't include the welcome bonus value in the first year, which could add significant additional value. Actual value depends on your specific usage patterns.
How to Earn Points
4X at Hyatt Properties
Earn 4X points on all purchases at Hyatt hotels and resorts, including room rates, dining, spa services, and other incidentals.
2X on Dining
Earn 2X points at restaurants, cafes, and other eating establishments worldwide.
2X on Airline Tickets
Earn 2X points on flights purchased directly from airlines.
2X on Local Transit and Commuting
Earn 2X points on taxis, rideshare services, public transportation, and tolls.
2X on Fitness Club and Gym Memberships
Earn 2X points on recurring fitness club and gym membership charges.
Sweet Spot Redemptions
| Route/Redemption | Points Required | Transfer Partner | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category 7 Luxury Properties | 30,000 points per night | Direct redemption | Properties like Park Hyatt Sydney or Park Hyatt New York often cost $1,000+ per night, giving you 3+ cents per point in value. |
| Category 4 Sweet Spots | 15,000 points per night | Direct redemption | Use points or free night certificates at properties like Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach or Grand Hyatt Washington DC. |
| All-Inclusive Resorts | 20,000-25,000 points per night | Direct redemption | Excellent value at Hyatt Ziva and Zilara properties where cash rates include all food and beverages. |
| Points + Cash Options | Varies by property | Direct redemption | The Points + Cash option often delivers good value when cash rates are high but you're short on points. |
Advanced Tips & Tricks
Pro Insider Tips
Track Elite Nights for Status
The card gives you 5 elite night credits annually plus 2 elite qualifying nights for every $5,000 spent. Explorist status (30 nights) and Globalist status (60 nights) offer significantly enhanced benefits.
Transfer Points Between Accounts
Hyatt allows free point transfers to anyone (up to 55,000 points per year), making it easy to pool points with a spouse or family member for a premium redemption.
Combine with Chase Ultimate Rewards
Pair with a Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve to transfer Ultimate Rewards points to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio, effectively turning your Freedom card spending into Hyatt points.
Book Guest of Honor Awards
Globalist members can book award stays for others who will receive all Globalist benefits. Work towards Globalist status or find a friend with status for this valuable perk.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the annual free night certificate work?
The free night certificate is deposited into your World of Hyatt account after your card anniversary each year. It's valid for one free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt property worldwide and expires 12 months from issuance. You can combine it with points or other certificates for a longer stay.
What is World of Hyatt Discoverist status?
Discoverist is the first elite tier in World of Hyatt, offering perks such as 10% bonus points on stays, preferred room upgrades when available, 2pm late checkout upon request, premium internet access, and a dedicated customer service line. You also get free bottled water and exclusive member rates.
Can I upgrade to the higher tier status with the card?
Yes, you can earn elite status faster with the card. You receive 5 elite night credits automatically each year, plus an additional 2 elite night credits for every $5,000 you spend on the card. This makes it possible to reach Explorist (30 nights) or even Globalist (60 nights) status through a combination of actual stays and card spending.
Do Hyatt points expire?
World of Hyatt points typically expire after 24 months of inactivity. However, any earning or redemption activity, including earning points with the World of Hyatt Credit Card, will reset the expiration clock. As long as you're using your card occasionally, your points won't expire.
Ready to Apply?
The World of Hyatt Credit Card offers exceptional travel benefits and rewards that make it a valuable addition to your wallet. The best hotel credit card for value, with points that go further than other hotel programs.