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For those who frequently stay at Marriott hotels, the right credit card can transform an ordinary trip into a rewarding experience. Marriott offers several co-branded credit cards designed to help travelers maximize their stays with valuable rewards, exclusive perks, and elite status benefits. Whether you’re looking for complimentary hotel nights, enhanced travel protections, or elevated membership status, selecting the right card can make all the difference.
This comprehensive breakdown highlights the top Marriott credit cards available, their standout features, and how they compare.
Top Marriott Credit Cards: A Side-by-Side Comparison
To help narrow down the options, the table below outlines the key differences between Marriott’s leading credit cards.
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ | $95 | 17X at Marriott, 3X on dining/gas/grocery, 2X on all else | Free Night Award (35K points), Silver Elite Status |
| Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ | $650 | 6X at Marriott, 3X on dining, 2X on all else | Free Night Award (85K points), Platinum Elite Status, Priority Pass |
| Marriott Bonvoy Business™ | $125 | 6X at Marriott, 4X on U.S. gas/restaurants, 2X on all else | Free Night Award (35K points), Gold Elite Status |
| The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card | $450 | 6X at Marriott, 3X on dining/airfare, 2X on all else | $300 Travel Credit, Lounge Access, Premium Insurance |
Each of these cards is tailored to a different type of traveler, offering benefits that cater to various spending habits and loyalty preferences.
A Closer Look at Marriott’s Best Credit Cards
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card
For those seeking a well-balanced card with substantial rewards and a reasonable annual fee, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ is a standout choice. This card is beautiful for travelers who stay at Marriott hotels regularly but don’t need the premium perks of a high-fee card.
Notable Benefits:
- 17X Points per Dollar on Marriott Stays – One of the most rewarding cards for Bonvoy members.
- Annual Free Night Award – Covers hotel stays worth up to 35,000 points, easily justifying the annual fee.
- Silver Elite Status – Provides benefits like priority late checkout and bonus points on stays.
This card strikes a solid balance between affordability and perks, making it an excellent option for those who want to maximize their Marriott experience without committing to a high-end travel card.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card
For those who prefer premium perks and elevated status, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ delivers an upgraded travel experience. While the $650 annual fee is on the higher side, its luxury-focused benefits can make it worthwhile for frequent guests at Marriott’s high-end properties.
Why It Stands Out:
- Platinum Elite Status – Unlocks complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, and 4 PM late checkout.
- 85,000-Point Free Night Award – A significant value, especially when redeemed at luxury resorts.
- Priority Pass Lounge Access – Entry to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide.
This card best suits those frequently staying at Marriott’s luxury hotels and wanting top-tier perks to enhance travel.
Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card
Designed for small business owners who frequently book Marriott stays, the Marriott Bonvoy Business™ card offers strong earning potential on everyday business expenses.
Key Benefits for Business Travelers:
- 6X Points on Marriott Stays – A solid return for booking frequent business trips.
- 4X Points on U.S. Restaurants, Gas, and Select Business Expenses – Helps maximize rewards on essential purchases.
- Gold Elite Status – Includes enhanced room upgrades and bonus points on stays.
With a reasonable $125 annual fee, this card is an excellent option for professionals who want to earn valuable travel rewards while covering their business expenses.
The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card
Although the Ritz-Carlton Credit Card is no longer available for new applications, it remains a top-tier option for existing cardholders. It offers one of the most comprehensive travel insurance packages and premium hotel benefits.
Standout Perks:
- $300 Annual Travel Credit— This credit can be used for baggage fees, lounge access, and other travel expenses.
- Priority Pass Select Membership – Unlimited access to airport lounges.
- Premium Travel Insurance – Includes trip cancellation protection and lost baggage reimbursement.
The benefits are worth keeping for those fortunate enough to hold this card, particularly for travelers who value comprehensive coverage and VIP treatment at luxury properties.
Additional Benefits Offered by Marriott Credit Cards
Annual Free Night Awards
Many Marriott credit cards include an annual free night, which can be redeemed at properties within a designated points range. When used strategically, this perk alone can offset the annual fee.
| Credit Card | Free Night Award Value |
|---|---|
| Bonvoy Boundless™ | 35,000 points |
| Bonvoy Brilliant™ | 85,000 points |
| Bonvoy Business™ | 35,000 points |
Elite Status Advantages
Holding a Marriott credit card often grants automatic elite status, which unlocks a range of benefits, including:
- Room Upgrades – Complimentary enhancements based on availability.
- Late Checkout – Extended departure times, typically until 2 PM or 4 PM.
- Bonus Points on Stays – Higher elite tiers earn more points per dollar spent.
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Most Marriott credit cards waive foreign transaction fees for international travelers, making them cost-effective for overseas spending.
Comprehensive Travel Protections
Several Marriott credit cards offer robust travel insurance benefits, covering trip cancellations, lost baggage, and medical emergencies.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage – Provides reimbursement for non-refundable expenses due to covered reasons.
- Baggage Delay and Lost Luggage Protection – Covers essential items if luggage is delayed or lost.
- Emergency Medical Assistance – Supports travelers in case of unexpected health emergencies.
Which Marriott Credit Card Is the Best Fit?
Choosing the best Marriott credit card depends on travel frequency, spending habits, and desired benefits.
- For occasional travelers – The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ is a cost-effective choice with substantial rewards.
- For luxury travelers – The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ offers premium perks and elite status.
- For business owners – The Marriott Bonvoy Business™ maximizes earnings on business expenses.
- For those who already have it, the Ritz-Carlton Credit Card remains one of the best for premium travel protection.
Final Thoughts
Marriott’s credit cards provide a range of options for travelers looking to earn valuable rewards, enjoy elite status, and take advantage of travel protections. Whether seeking affordable perks or luxury travel benefits, the right Marriott credit card can significantly enhance hotel stays and overall travel experiences.
Before applying, consider how often you stay at Marriott properties, the benefits you’ll use most, and whether the annual fee aligns with the value you expect to receive.
Reviewed and edited by Albert Fang.
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