Planning a family vacation is exciting, but let’s be honest — it can also get expensive fast. Between flights, food, and especially lodging, the costs add up. That’s where points and miles come to the rescue!
In this guide, I’ll walk you step-by-step through how to book family-friendly hotels using your hard-earned points — so you can save money and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Step 1: Understand Which Programs Offer the Best Family Hotels
Not all hotel programs are created equal when it comes to families. Some chains are better suited for family stays, offering spacious rooms, free breakfast, and kid-friendly amenities.
Here are a few great options:
- Hyatt — Known for family-friendly properties like Hyatt Place (which includes free breakfast!) and Hyatt Regency resorts with pools and kid activities.
- Marriott Bonvoy — Offers a massive selection of family hotels, including Residence Inn (with kitchenettes) and family resorts like Marriott Vacation Club.
- Hilton Honors — Embassy Suites and Homewood Suites give you free breakfast, large rooms, and often a pool — all perfect for families.
👉 Pro tip: Check if the hotel offers suites or “family rooms” to maximize comfort.
Step 2: Earn Points Strategically
Before you book, you need points! Start by opening a credit card that earns rewards with your chosen hotel program or with flexible points like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards.
Some great cards for families:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (points transfer to Hyatt)
- Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
Don't forget to:
- Add authorized users (like your spouse) to double up on points.
- Take advantage of bonus categories like groceries and gas stations.
- Stack promotions and shopping portals for extra points!
Step 3: Search for Availability Early
Family-friendly hotels, especially during peak seasons (think summer and holidays), book up fast with points. Start searching as early as possible — ideally 9–12 months in advance.
Use the hotel's website to check points availability, and if you’re flexible with dates or destinations, you’ll have a better shot at finding great options.
👉 Tip: Some programs like Marriott let you book on points even before you’ve earned all of them, as long as you have them by your stay date!
Step 4: Understand Award Charts and Sweet Spots
Some hotel programs use fixed award charts, while others are dynamic (meaning points required change based on cash prices).
For example:
- Hyatt generally offers the best value, with award nights starting at just 5,000 points.
- Hilton Honors is fully dynamic, but they often run sales on point redemptions.
- Marriott Bonvoy uses dynamic pricing, but look for off-peak dates!
Look for sweet spots:
- All-suite properties at standard award rates
- Properties that include breakfast or resort credits
- “Fifth Night Free” offers (like Marriott, which gives you the fifth night free when booking with points!)
Step 5: Stack Perks for Extra Value
Once you’ve found your hotel, don’t stop there! You can often squeeze even more value by stacking elite status perks or special offers.
Examples:
- Free breakfast for elite members
- Late checkout for more pool time
- Suite upgrades
- Resort credits or family activity packages
Many credit cards that earn hotel points also come with automatic elite status, giving you these perks without extra effort.
Step 6: Book and Enjoy!
Book directly through the hotel loyalty program for the best rates and benefits. Avoid third-party booking sites when redeeming points — they won’t let you use your rewards or enjoy elite perks.
Finally, once you’ve booked, don’t forget:
- Confirm room configurations (double-check bed types!)
- Note any resort fees (some hotels still charge them even on award stays)
- Contact the hotel in advance to request a crib, rollaway bed, or connecting rooms if needed.
Then get ready to enjoy your family adventure — knowing your points just saved you a bundle!
Final Thoughts
Booking family-friendly hotels with points is one of the best ways to stretch your travel budget while making priceless memories. With a little planning and the right strategy, your family could be enjoying spacious suites, breakfasts together, and fun hotel activities — all without breaking the bank.
Happy travels!
