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

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

Research

Marc Ramos Contributor | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Feb 26, 2025

World of Hyatt recently announced its list of annual category changes, revealing that more points will soon be required for award stays at 118 properties. Fortunately, these changes have been announced in advance, allowing members to book stays at current rates until March 25 at 8 a.m. CDT.

It is advisable to review the list of properties increasing in award category and decide if any should be booked before the changes take effect. Even those without sufficient Hyatt points can explore several methods to secure their stays ahead of the category adjustments.

One option is transferring points from partner programs such as Chase Ultimate Rewards and Bilt Rewards, both offering transfers to World of Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio. These transfers typically occur instantly, but availability should be checked prior to transferring.

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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.