Which hotel program offers the best value in 2026?

World of Hyatt, with a point value of roughly 2.5¢ CAD, remains the best value despite its May 2026 devaluation. Marriott Bonvoy and Wyndham Rewards follow, with points worth between 0.9 and 1.0¢.

Which program has the easiest elite status to earn?

Choice Privileges and Wyndham Rewards, where the standard upper tier takes 35 and 40 nights respectively. At the other end, IHG One Rewards requires 70 nights for its Diamond status, the highest threshold of the six programs.

Which program offers the best elite status benefits?

World of Hyatt Globalist (60 nights) and Hilton Diamond Reserve (80 nights, new in 2026) are generally considered the most generous statuses: suite upgrades, lounge access, breakfast included and waived fees.

How are these point values calculated?

We compare the points cost of a night with its cash equivalent, across a sample of representative properties for each program. These values are revised periodically to reflect award chart changes and devaluations.

Why does Hyatt remain the best program despite its worst devaluation?

Because its starting point was considerably higher than that of the other programs. Even after losing 67% on its most expensive categories, a Hyatt point still delivers a better return than a Hilton, IHG or Choice point.

Is there a Canadian credit card for each of these programs?

Marriott Bonvoy is the only one to offer a co-branded credit card directly in Canada. Since July 2026, World of Hyatt has gained a card-based route in through the Aeroplan partnership: the 10 Aeroplan cards (TD, CIBC, American Express) earn bonus Hyatt points and grant complimentary base status. For Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy, transferring American Express Membership Rewards points (Cobalt Card or Platinum Card) remains the simplest route. Wyndham, IHG and Choice have neither a co-branded card nor a direct transfer partner in Canada.

Is the price increase at Marriott Bonvoy confirmed?

No, not officially. Several specialist sites report an increase of 2.4% to 16% in the points cost across a sample of hotels, but Marriott has issued no statement on the matter. The program has had no fixed award chart published since March 2022.

Which program should I choose for budget travel?

Wyndham Rewards is best positioned since the addition of its 5,000-point entry tier in September 2026, a 33% decrease from the former threshold. Choice Privileges remains an option for economy chains such as Comfort Inn or Quality Inn, depending on the destination.

Why have Hilton Honors and IHG One Rewards not announced a devaluation?

Both programs have used 100% dynamic pricing for several years, with no published reference chart. Points prices shift quietly with demand, which makes any one-off devaluation difficult to document or announce formally.

Do these point values change often?

We revise these values at least once a year, or sooner if a program announces a major award chart change or a confirmed devaluation.

Audrey Voisine

Audrey, co-founder of Milesopedia, is a dedicated entrepreneur, avid traveler, and mother of two children. She shares valuable tips and recommendations for families and frequent travellers alike, helping everyone get the most from points and rewards programs. As Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications, she is committed to guiding Milesopedia readers toward more accessible, practical, and memorable journeys.

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