Choice Privileges Visa Review

The Choice Privileges Visa credit card was a co-branded credit card offered by Barclays in partnership with Choice Hotels. The Choice Privileges Visa card is designed for individuals who frequently stay at Choice Hotels properties and want to earn rewards for their hotel stays. Please be aware that credit card offerings and benefits can change over time, so it's essential to check the latest terms, conditions, and benefits before applying for this card. Here's an overview of the typical features and benefits associated with the Choice Privileges Visa credit card:

Key Features and Benefits:

1. Choice Privileges Points: Cardholders earn Choice Privileges points for every dollar spent on the credit card. These points can be redeemed for free nights at Choice Hotels properties, including well-known brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Clarion.

2. Sign-Up Bonus: The card often offers a sign-up bonus, typically in the form of bonus points after reaching a specified spending threshold within the initial months of card ownership.

3. Elite Status: Some versions of the card provide cardholders with elite status within the Choice Privileges loyalty program, offering perks such as room upgrades, priority customer service, and bonus points on stays.

4. Anniversary Bonus: Cardholders may receive an anniversary bonus of additional Choice Privileges points each year, which can help offset the annual fee.

5. No Foreign Transaction Fees: The card typically does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it suitable for international travelers or travelers staying at Choice Hotels outside of the United States.

6. Travel and Purchase Protection: Depending on the specific version of the card, cardholders may enjoy benefits like trip cancellation/interruption insurance, rental car insurance, and extended warranty protection.

7. Car Rental Discounts: The Choice Privileges Visa card often provides discounts and benefits when renting cars from select car rental companies.

Drawbacks:

1. Annual Fee: The card typically comes with an annual fee, so it's important to assess whether the rewards and benefits outweigh the cost for your specific travel and spending habits.

2. Narrow Focus: The rewards and benefits of the Choice Privileges Visa card are focused solely on Choice Hotels properties. If you don't frequently stay at Choice Hotels, you may find limited value in this card.

3. Interest Rates: As with many co-branded credit cards, the Choice Privileges Visa may have relatively high-interest rates. To maximize its benefits, it's advisable to pay off the balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.

4. Limited Acceptance: Co-branded credit cards often have limited acceptance outside of the specific brand, so it may not be the best card for everyday spending.

The Choice Privileges Visa credit card can be a good option for loyal customers of Choice Hotels who frequently stay at their properties and want to earn rewards for their stays. If you're not a regular visitor to Choice Hotels or you prefer a credit card with more versatile travel rewards, you may want to explore other travel credit cards that offer broader redemption options.

Before applying for the Choice Privileges Visa credit card, carefully review the current terms and conditions, benefits guide, and any associated fees to ensure it aligns with your preferences and travel habits.