Deciding which credit card to use for Hilton stays can significantly impact your rewards and benefits. While Hilton-branded American Express cards offer high earning rates and complimentary elite status, alternative options with transferable rewards currencies may provide greater long-term value.
Understanding Your Priorities
The primary considerations when choosing a card are the Hilton-related benefits you want to enjoy and the number of points you’ll earn on your booking. Cobranded Amex cards excel in earning Hilton Honors points, but these points are generally valued lower than transferable rewards currencies like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards.
Cobranded vs. Transferable Rewards
Cobranded Amex cards (such as the Hilton Aspire, Surpass, and Business Amex) provide the highest earning rates for Hilton stays. However, Hilton Honors points are currently valued at approximately 0.5 cents each, according to November 2025 valuations. The main benefit is simplicity: earn points directly applicable to Hilton stays.
Transferable rewards cards (like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Green Card) offer greater flexibility. Chase Ultimate Rewards points are worth 2.05 cents each, while Amex Membership Rewards points are valued at 2 cents each. This allows you to redeem points for a wider range of travel expenses, including premium flights or stays at other hotel chains.
Elite Status and Booking Methods
Hilton elite status benefits are tied to your Hilton profile, not necessarily the card you use. As long as you book directly through Hilton, you’ll enjoy your benefits regardless of payment method. However, booking through issuer travel portals (such as Chase Travel or Citi Travel) may not qualify as a direct booking, and you could lose your elite perks.
Additional Factors to Consider
Beyond earning rates and benefits, other factors matter:
- Welcome Bonuses: If you’re working towards a bonus, focus spending on the corresponding card.
- Amex Offers/Chase Offers: Check for targeted discounts on Hilton stays; enrollment is required.
- Statement Credits: Maximize quarterly or biannual statement credits offered by some Hilton Amex cards.
- Annual Spending Bonuses: Some cards provide higher elite status tiers or free night certificates for meeting spending thresholds.
Which Card Should You Choose?
The best card depends on your loyalty and redemption preferences.
- Hilton Loyalists: A cobranded Amex card is generally the way to go for maximum Hilton points.
- Flexible Travelers: Prioritize transferable rewards cards if you want to diversify your redemptions.
Ultimately, choosing the right card means maximizing your rewards and benefits based on your travel goals. Whether you’re aiming for Hilton points or broader travel flexibility, aligning your spending with the right card ensures you come out ahead.
