Buy Marriott Bonvoy Points: Up to 40% bonus points

The purchase of Marriott Bonvoy points allows you to top up a balance or book a specific night without accumulating for months. This guide explains how this purchase works, its cost, and especially when it is worthwhile for a Canadian traveler.

For example, you could use them in Japan: see our reviews of the Marriott Nagasaki and the Kerama Islands guide in Okinawa.

Normally, the Marriott Bonvoy program charges $12.50 USD per 1,000 points. However, several times a year, the program launches a promotion that reduces this cost through a points bonus or a price discount. The minimum purchase is 2,000 points per transaction.

Two Types of Offers: Bonus or Discount

This promotion works with two distinct mechanics depending on your profile. First, let’s look at the thresholds according to the type of offer assigned.

Bonus Point Offer

For targeted members with a bonus, you pay the regular price and receive additional points.

Discount Offer

For targeted members with a discount, you receive the exact number of points purchased, but at a reduced price.

What is the cost per point?

Normally, Marriott Bonvoy charges 12.50 USD per 1,000 points, or 1.25 US cents per point. The promotion reduces this cost differently depending on the type of offer.

Conditions of the promotion

Here are the rules to know before proceeding with your purchase.

Which card to use for purchase?

The transaction is processed in US dollars and goes through Points.com. Consequently, it is not considered a Marriott purchase. Therefore, you will not earn 5 points per dollar with a Marriott Bonvoy credit card; instead, you will earn 2 points per dollar.

To save on conversion fees, use a card with no foreign transaction fees, such as the Scotiabank Passport^™ Visa Infinite* Card. This represents 2.5% savings compared to a standard card.

Should you buy Marriott points?

Buying points is not relevant for everyone. Here is when it is worth it and when you should abstain.

When buying is worthwhile

When it’s better to refrain

Before purchasing, always check the cost of nights in dollars to determine if buying points is advantageous for your specific case.

Earning Marriott Points in Canada

In Canada, several ways are available to accumulate Marriott Bonvoy points without purchasing them. Consult our best Marriott Bonvoy cards page to compare all options.

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

Two cards affiliated with the program each offer a generous welcome bonus.

With these cards, you earn between 2 and 5 Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar spent.

Transfer from American Express

You can also earn Marriott points by transferring American Express Membership Rewards points, at a rate of 5 Membership Rewards points for 6 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Our favorite card for this strategy remains the American Express Cobalt^® Card. It earns 5x the points on groceries, convenience stores, restaurants, bars, and food delivery. This is equivalent to 6 Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar in these categories.

Also watch for the Membership Rewards points transfer promotion to Marriott Bonvoy to further maximize your conversion. The last promotion of this type took place last April.

Conclusion

Buying Marriott Bonvoy points represents a good opportunity for travelers with a specific goal, such as a planned stay, a night to complete, or a Marriott Bonvoy Moments experience in mind. Bonus or discount promotions, which return several times a year, make these purchases even more cost-effective.

However, if you are not in one of these situations, buying points is not the most profitable strategy. It will be more advantageous to accumulate your points directly with a Canadian credit card. To ensure you don’t miss any future promotions, subscribe to our newsletter.

Marriott Bonvoy Point Purchase – Frequently Asked Questions