For most, the idea of *buying* hotel elite status feels…wrong. A perk reserved for loyalty, not a transaction. But IHG One Rewards is quietly offering a compelling deal that’s making even seasoned travelers reconsider. It’s a targeted offer, arriving via email with subject lines like “Upgrade to Diamond Elite status,” and it’s surprisingly effective.
The core of the offer is simple: the ability to purchase elite qualifying points. These aren’t your typical points for free nights; they directly contribute to achieving higher status tiers like Gold, Platinum, or Diamond. For those on the cusp of a tier, or facing a busy year, it’s a shortcut with a potentially significant payoff.
The math is key. For Diamond Elite status, 120,000 elite qualifying points are required. With a 20% discount available through the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, that 120,000 point purchase could be secured for around $800 – a rate of just 0.67 cents per point. That’s a remarkably low cost considering the benefits unlocked.
It’s crucial to check your current elite qualifying point balance before jumping in. The buy points page displays a balance as of a specific date, but recent stays might not be reflected. Avoid overspending by confirming your *actual* needs before completing the purchase. Remember, this is a one-time offer; buy everything you need in a single transaction.
These purchased points aren’t restricted to status qualification. They’re fully redeemable for free nights and other rewards, adding another layer of value. The terms clearly state they function as standard elite qualifying points, applicable to all IHG redemptions.
The decision to buy isn’t automatic. It hinges on how much value you place on IHG elite status. If you consistently redeem points for stays where you realize more than 0.67 cents per point – especially leveraging the fourth-night-free benefit of the Premier card – the offer becomes incredibly attractive.
Diamond Elite status unlocks perks like complimentary breakfast at many properties, a benefit not automatically included with the Premier card’s Elite status. Even if most travel is booked under a partner’s account, having your own Diamond status provides flexibility for solo trips and free night certificate redemptions.
While purchasing points won’t unlock Milestone Rewards (based on qualifying nights, not points), this offer presents a unique opportunity to accelerate your path to elite status. It’s a strategic option for those who don’t have the time or travel volume to earn status organically, or meet spending requirements on associated credit cards.
Ultimately, this isn’t about circumventing loyalty; it’s about maximizing value. If you’re a frequent IHG guest who consistently benefits from point redemptions, this targeted offer deserves serious consideration. It’s a rare instance where buying your way to elite status actually makes financial sense.
