Join hotel frequent stay programs online

When joining frequent stay programs on the web, consider enrolling in programs where you can spend points at a family of hotels.

I recommend: Reward programs like Intercontinental frequent guest program, Marriott Rewards and Ramada Frequent Guest program all have a family of hotel chains to choose from.

Check out frequent traveler programs for hotels with several partners

Frequent traveler programs for hotels often have airline, retail, entertainment and rental car partners, allowing members to use points for more than just hotel services.

I recommend: In additional to frequent traveler hotel services, the Starwood Hotels' preferred guest program allows members to transfer points to airline frequent flier programs or exchange points for merchandise, car rentals or a chance to bid on one of a kind experiences. Members in Hilton HHonors can also redeem points for such goodies as amusement park tickets, cruises and restaurant meals.

Track all your hotel frequent guest program points in one place

It can be cumbersome to manage points if you are a member of more than one hotel frequent guest program. Keep tabs on reward points with software or a web-based tracking system.

I recommend: Manage and track balances from multiple frequent guest programs in one place with Points.com. MileTracker provides free software that users can download to keep track of hotel, frequent flier and other reward programs.