Not Hilton, Not Marriott: This Hotel Chain Has The Best Loyalty Rewards Program

A survey reads, "More than half (52%) of Americans are currently enrolled in at least one hotel loyalty program." The survey, conducted by Marriott Bonvoy, also found that 80% believe loyalty programs help them "turn travel desires into reality through perks such as free stays and upgrades." It's somewhat ironic, then, that Marriott Bonvoy doesn't have the top-rated loyalty rewards program. That title, at least according to USA Today's 2026 Readers' Choice Awards, goes to Wyndham, which has topped the rankings with its popular Wyndham Rewards program.

Wyndham has beaten both Marriott and Hilton according to USA Today readers. The two popular hotel chains finished eighth and sixth, respectively, well below first-place Wyndham. Between Wyndham and Hilton were Omni, I Prefer, Sonesta, and Stash Rewards, a loyalty program covering multiple independent hotels. Wyndham's program, Wyndham Rewards, stood out for its vast selection of hotels and global destinations, as well as its points redemption options like gifts, tours, concerts, and sporting events. The program has now held the No. 1 or No. 2 spot every year for a decade.

Hotel loyalty programs work both ways and aren't something hotel chains have implemented solely for guests' benefit. In an age where travelers have more accommodation choices than ever, loyalty programs help build and maintain their customer base. "The perceived value of a loyalty program is essential in the formation of customer brand loyalty," according to a 2020 study. Topping USA Today's list certainly shows Wyndham is doing something right for its repeat guests. But it also shows the brand is enjoying consistent use and consideration, which coincides with a 17% year-on-year increase in income between April and June 2026, totaling $102 million over those three months.

According to NerdWallet, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has one of the world's biggest portfolios of hotels. Anyone enrolled in the rewards program can access benefits at around 8,400 hotels spanning 100 countries. This includes a wide range of hotel collections put together to attract specific guests, with categories like pet-friendly, all-inclusive, business, road trip, family, beach, Route 66, and spa hotels. The extensive choice is a significant benefit for travelers who want to make the most of their loyalty program no matter where they go. Wyndham also offers at least 1,000 points for every stay.

Wyndham Rewards members can also earn points by joining AARP or packaging travel expenses like flights, accommodation, and car rental. A branded credit card gives you six points for every $1 spent on stays and gives new cardholders a chance to earn upwards of 100,000 bonus points if they make certain purchases or spend a certain amount in a set time period. Member tiers, like blue, gold, platinum, and the newly added diamond, reward loyalty with greater perks the more nights you stay. Points can then be redeemed for free or discounted stays at hotels like the affordable, modern Wyndham San Diego Bayside or the Wyndham Alltra Samaná, a Dominican Republic retreat with beachy bliss.

Members can also use their points on live music or sports experiences, merchandise, and more in an online shop. Other perks include late checkout, suite and rental car upgrades, and accelerated points earning, depending on your tier. Wyndham Rewards is free to join, so it's no surprise it's one of the hotel loyalty programs actually worth it.