Hyatt’s free night certificates are one of the best sweet spots in hotel rewards. Whether you travel a little or a lot, these certificates can unlock free stays at quality properties—without needing a mountain of points. Here’s a straightforward guide to earning them, using them wisely, and getting the most value.
A Quick Look at World of Hyatt
World of Hyatt is the hotel chain’s loyalty program. You earn points by staying at Hyatt properties, dining with participating partners, or holding a Hyatt credit card. Points can be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, and more. But beyond points, Hyatt also offers free night certificates—which don’t cost you anything extra and can be incredibly valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a Hyatt free night certificate?
Log in to your World of Hyatt account, search for a hotel, and check the “Use Points” option. If your certificate applies, it will show up during the booking flow as an option alongside points.
How do I redeem a Hyatt free night certificate?
Redeem it online just like booking with points—select a standard room at an eligible property and choose the free night award when it’s available. No phone call required.
Can I gift my Hyatt free night certificate to someone else?
Generally, Hyatt free night certificates are non-transferable. However, you can often book a room under someone else’s name by adding a second guest or calling Hyatt to arrange the stay.
What categories are eligible for the Hyatt free night certificate?
Most certificates cover up to Category 4. Higher-tier certificates (e.g., milestone rewards) may go up to Category 7. You can view hotel categories on Hyatt’s official site.
Do Hyatt free night certificates expire?
Yes—most expire 12 months from the date of issue. Make sure to use (and not just book) the night before the expiration date, as certificates are “use by,” not “stay by.”
Can I combine a free night certificate with cash or points?
Yes. You can book a multi-night stay with a mix of certificates, points, or cash—as long as each night’s rate qualifies and availability permits.
Can Hyatt extend my free night certificate?
Hyatt generally does not extend free night certificates past their expiration. However, you can try contacting Hyatt customer service to request a one-time exception due to unforeseen circumstances. Extensions are not guaranteed.
What is a Guest of Honor free night certificate?
While not an actual certificate, the Guest of Honor benefit allows Globalist members to book award stays for others and extend elite benefits like free breakfast, upgrades, and late checkout. The booking must be made with the Globalist’s account using points or a certificate.
What Are Hyatt Free Night Certificates?
Hyatt free night certificates are awards you can earn and redeem for a one-night stay at eligible Hyatt hotels. There are a few main types:
- Category 1–4 Certificate – Can be used at properties in Hyatt’s lower to mid-range tiers.
- Category 1–7 Certificate – Typically earned through elite milestones, usable at most Hyatt hotels, including some luxury ones.
- Brand Explorer Award – A special free night after staying at five unique Hyatt brands (more on this below).
Certificates are usually valid for 12 months and can be used as long as a standard room is available—no blackout dates.
Credit Cards That Offer Hyatt Free Night Certificates
One of the easiest ways to earn these is through Hyatt’s co-branded credit cards from Chase:
| Credit Card | Free Night Certificate | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| World of Hyatt Credit Card | 1 Free Night (Cat 1–4) every anniversary | Just keep the card open |
| +1 Additional Free Night (Cat 1–4) | After spending $15,000 in a calendar year | |
| World of Hyatt Business Credit Card | No automatic certificate | Focuses more on elite night credits |
Note: Benefits may change—check with Chase for the latest terms.
The Brand Explorer Perk
Hyatt has over 25 hotel brands, from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury. With the Brand Explorer promotion, if you stay at five different Hyatt brands, you earn a Category 1–4 free night certificate. No deadlines—your progress is tracked automatically in your account.
Example brands include:
- Hyatt Regency
- Hyatt Place
- Andaz
- Thompson Hotels
- Alila
It’s a fun way to explore different styles and locations while earning a free stay.
How to Use Hyatt Free Night Certificates
Redeeming your certificate is easy:
- Log in to your World of Hyatt account.
- Search for a hotel and date range.
- If a free night certificate is eligible, it will show up as a booking option.
- Select it, confirm, and you’re booked—no phone calls necessary.
Tips for Getting the Most Value:
- Use it at Category 4 hotels that would otherwise cost $250+ per night.
- Combine a certificate with points or cash for longer stays.
- Keep track of expiration dates—they’re “use by,” not “stay by.”
Example: Booking an LAX Hotel with a Free Night Certificate
Example: Booking an LAX Hotel with a Free Night Certificate
Need a place to stay near the airport before an early flight? Hyatt has a solid option near LAX that accepts free night certificates: Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport.
Step-by-Step: Redeeming Your Certificate
1. Log into Your Hyatt Account
Go to hyatt.com and sign in to your World of Hyatt account.
2. Search for Hotels Near LAX
Enter your destination (e.g., Los Angeles, CA), dates, and make sure to check “Use Points.”
3. Choose a Hotel That Qualifies
Select the Hyatt Regency LAX or another Category 1–4 hotel.
4. View Available Rates
Look for standard rooms that can be booked with points or certificates. If your certificate is valid, it will be shown as a booking option.
5. Select the Room Type
Choose a standard room that matches the certificate’s criteria (e.g., one king bed, standard view).
6. Apply Your Certificate
If a free night certificate is available, it will be automatically applied during checkout.
7. Confirm and Enjoy
Review your details and confirm the booking. You’ve just scored a free stay!
Why This Hotel?
- Category: 3 (eligible for Cat 1–4 certificate)
- Cash price: ~$220 (including taxes and fees)
- Points rate: Typically 12,000 points per night
- Effective value: 1.83 cents per point (CPM)
Using your certificate here delivers excellent value—well above the typical Hyatt redemption average of 1.5¢ per point. It’s a smart use for layovers, late arrivals, or early flights out of LAX.
In Summary
Hyatt free night certificates are a solid travel perk—easy to earn, flexible to use, and surprisingly valuable. Whether you’re racking them up with a credit card, exploring new brands, or earning through elite status, they can stretch your travel budget further without compromising comfort.
One night free at a beachfront resort, a downtown hotel, or an airport stopover? Yes, please.
