The Clark Howard Podcast
09.18.24 Hotel Points Devalued / Update: Laundry Detergent Sheets
Sep 18, 2024
Clark, a seasoned expert in hotel loyalty programs and consumer products, shares crucial insights on the significant devaluation of hotel points. He explains why brand loyalty is essential for some but not worth it for others. Clark also provides a candid update on laundry detergent sheets, revealing their disappointing performance and urging consumers to reevaluate their choices. Additionally, he discusses travel strategies and the intricacies of trip insurance, offering valuable advice for those looking to optimize their travel experiences.
31:24
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Quick takeaways
- Hotel loyalty programs like Marriott's Bonvoy are losing value, making brand loyalty less appealing for frequent travelers.
- Laundry detergent sheets may not clean effectively, revealing the importance of consumer reviews before purchasing cleaning products.
Deep dives
Problems with Hotel Loyalty Programs
Hotel loyalty programs, particularly Marriott's Bonvoy, have seen a significant decline in value and reliability. The speaker highlights that various elite privileges, like room upgrades and free breakfasts, which frequent travelers once enjoyed, are no longer being honored, leaving many in the lurch. This devaluation has made it clear that the accumulated points from these programs hold little worth compared to the cost of hotel stays. The recommendation for travelers is to be wary of brand loyalty and to prioritize checking individual hotel reviews over relying on brand names.
