Unlocking IHG Milestone Rewards: Suite Upgrades, Points, and More

The IHG One Rewards program offers an exciting opportunity for travelers to earn Milestone Rewards every time they stay at an IHG property. Starting from just 20 nights in a calendar year, members can enjoy a range of benefits, including bonus points, food-and-beverage vouchers, confirmable suite upgrades, and even an annual lounge membership. Here’s everything you need to know about maximizing your IHG Milestone Rewards.

Understanding IHG Milestone Rewards

IHG Milestone Rewards are perks you earn based on the number of nights you stay at IHG hotels within a calendar year. For every 10 nights you stay, starting from the 20-night mark, you can select a reward. It’s important to note that all elite qualifying nights, including award nights, count towards your Milestone Rewards. However, rollover nights from the previous year do not contribute to your total.

As you reach specific milestones, you can choose from various rewards:

– 20 Nights: One confirmable suite upgrade or 5,000 bonus points or a $20 food-and-beverage voucher.
– 30 Nights: One confirmable suite upgrade or 10,000 bonus points or a $20 food-and-beverage voucher.
– 40 Nights: Two confirmable suite upgrades or 10,000 bonus points or two $20 food-and-beverage vouchers.
– 50 Nights: One confirmable suite upgrade or 10,000 bonus points or a $20 food-and-beverage voucher.
– 60 Nights: One confirmable suite upgrade or 10,000 bonus points or a $20 food-and-beverage voucher.
– 70 Nights: Two confirmable suite upgrades or 10,000 bonus points or two $20 food-and-beverage vouchers.
– 80 Nights: One confirmable suite upgrade or 10,000 bonus points or a $20 food-and-beverage voucher.
– 90 Nights: One confirmable suite upgrade or 10,000 bonus points or a $20 food-and-beverage voucher.
– 100 Nights: One confirmable suite upgrade or 10,000 bonus points or a $20 food-and-beverage voucher.

Let’s delve deeper into each option to understand their value.

Bonus Points

Choosing bonus points is a straightforward way to enhance your rewards balance. When you select this option, IHG deposits the points directly into your account. According to recent valuations, 5,000 IHG One Rewards points are worth approximately $25, while 10,000 points equate to about $50. This option is ideal for those who frequently redeem points for free nights or other rewards.

Food-and-Beverage Rewards

At each milestone, you can opt for food-and-beverage rewards, which come in the form of vouchers worth up to $20. These vouchers can be used to offset food and beverage charges during your stay. However, they are not applicable for certain services, such as room service or mini-bar purchases, and they expire 12 months after selection. Ensure your total food and beverage charges exceed the voucher value before redemption, as you can only use each voucher once.

Food-and-beverage rewards can be redeemed at most IHG brands, except for IHG Army Hotels and select Six Senses locations, as well as during stays at Iberostar Beachfront Resorts and InterContinental Alliance Resorts in Macao.

Confirmable Suite Upgrades

One of the most appealing rewards is the confirmable suite upgrade. After reaching the 20-night and 40-night milestones, you can select one upgrade, and after 70 nights, you can choose two. These upgrades allow you to elevate your stay to an entry-level suite (or a premium room if a suite isn’t available) for stays of up to five nights.

To redeem a suite upgrade, you must contact IHG customer care between 14 days and 24 hours before check-in. Keep in mind that availability varies by property, and upgrades are non-transferable. Additionally, if you upgrade to a club room, you won’t receive club-level perks as part of the upgrade.

Annual Lounge Membership

At the 40-night and 70-night milestones, members have the option to select an annual lounge membership. This membership grants access to club lounges at participating IHG properties for the remainder of the calendar year following the year in which you earned it. For example, if you reach the 40-night milestone in November 2025, your membership will be valid through the end of 2026.

While enjoying lounge access, you and a guest can take advantage of the amenities provided, but note that access is contingent on being on a qualifying stay. Reward nights and free nights are eligible, but stays at InterContinental Alliance Resorts in Macao are not.

Choosing Your Rewards Wisely

Once you reach a milestone, IHG will notify you via email, prompting you to select your reward. It’s advisable to wait until closer to your stay to choose your rewards, especially for food-and-beverage vouchers and suite upgrades, as they expire based on selection date.

Determining the best rewards for you depends on your travel habits and preferences. While bonus points and food-and-beverage rewards are straightforward, the value of suite upgrades and lounge memberships can vary significantly based on how often you utilize them.

Maximizing Your IHG Experience

Even if you don’t plan to achieve elite status, aiming for at least 20 nights each year can be beneficial. Earning a Milestone Reward after just 20 nights can provide exceptional value, whether through bonus points, food-and-beverage vouchers, or a suite upgrade.

The IHG One Rewards program is designed to enhance your travel experience, making your stays more enjoyable and rewarding. By understanding the options available and strategically selecting your rewards, you can maximize your benefits and enjoy the perks that come with being an IHG member.

In conclusion, whether you’re a frequent traveler or planning your next getaway, the IHG Milestone Rewards program offers valuable incentives to enhance your stay. With the right approach, you can unlock a range of benefits that elevate your travel experience with IHG.