Strategies for booking Hyatt awards without enough points ahead of category changes

Alternatively, points can be transferred from another member's account. Friends or family members with available points can transfer them free of charge, although this process can only occur once every 30 days per account.

Another method involves having another member book an award stay on your behalf. Hyatt allows its members to reserve stays, including Guest of Honor stays, under another person’s name using their points.

For those with Hyatt elite status, booking a points-advance reservation may be possible. According to World of Hyatt terms and conditions, elite members might make reservations without sufficient points in anticipation of earning the necessary amount before check-in.

Lastly, purchasing additional points is an option. Buying at least 5,000 points can unlock a discount through April 14, bringing the purchase rate down to 1.95 cents per point.

In summary, while annual category changes often mean increased costs for stays, there remains time to secure bookings into 2026 at current rates by acting before March 25.