Marriot Bonvoy Bold Credit Card overview
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card stands out as a no-annual-fee member of the Marriott Bonvoy lineup. In the realm of credit cards, the adage “you get what you pay for” holds true, and the Bonvoy Bold is no exception. While it trims some earning potential and popular perks to forego an annual fee, it’s a solid choice for newcomers to the travel scene seeking to enjoy Marriott Silver Elite status benefits during hotel stays.
Currently, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold entices applicants with a generous sign-up bonus of 30,000 points after spending $1,000 on purchases within the initial three months of account opening. If you’re considering applying, here’s a breakdown of what you should know about this card.
Marriot Bonvoy Bold welcome offer
Fresh cardholders stand to gain 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points by utilizing their card for eligible purchases totaling $1,000 within the initial three months of account activation. Eligibility aligns with Chase’s 5/24 rule, and potential applicants should be aware of the intricate eligibility requirements associated with Marriott cobranded cards, including the Marriott Bonvoy Bold. Navigate potential roadblocks by confirming your eligibility before submitting your application.
Marriot Bonvoy Bold benefits
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold awards 15 elite night credits, ensuring automatic Silver Elite status. Enjoy perks like a 10% points bonus, priority late checkout, free in-room Wi-Fi, and a reservation guarantee. These credits accelerate your journey to a higher status tier.
Additionally, the Bold extends valuable benefits:
- Baggage Delay Insurance: Receive up to $100 daily for essential purchases due to baggage delays over six hours (up to five days).
- Lost Luggage Reimbursement: Coverage of up to $3,000 per passenger for damaged or lost luggage.
- Trip Delay Reimbursement: Coverage up to $500 per ticket for unreimbursed expenses if your flight is delayed over 12 hours or requires an overnight stay.
- Purchase Protection: Safeguard new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft (up to $500 per claim and $50,000 per account).
- Visa Concierge: Access the 24/7 Visa Signature Concierge Service for assistance with entertainment tickets, dinner reservations, and more.
Remarkably, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold, a no-annual-fee card, stands out by offering rare benefits like baggage and trip delay coverage—ideal for travel enthusiasts looking to maximize their card benefits.
Earning rewards
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold card is a rewarding choice for travelers, offering 3 points per dollar on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels. Additionally, you’ll earn 2 points per dollar on general travel expenses and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.
It’s important to note that the 3 points per dollar on Marriott hotel stays are in addition to the points earned through the Bonvoy program. With 10 base points and an extra 10% from Silver Elite status, you can accumulate up to 14 points per dollar on qualifying Bonvoy hotel stays using the Bonvoy Bold card.
However, when compared to other Marriott Bonvoy credit cards, the earning rates may not be as competitive. Alternatives offer 2 points per dollar on everyday spending and 6 points per dollar at Marriott hotels, along with additional bonus categories.
If you possess a general travel credit card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, you might find it more advantageous to use that card for broader travel expenses.
Redeeming rewards
Like all Bonvoy credit cards, your points shine brightest when redeemed for award-night stays at eligible Bonvoy hotels. A standout perk is the fifth-night free benefit, allowing you to enjoy a 20% savings on five-night stays at qualifying properties.
For those starting their points journey, Marriott’s Cash + Points redemption offers flexibility. Use points for a portion of your hotel stay and cover the rest with cash, making luxury more accessible even with modest points balances.
Additionally, your Marriott points aren’t limited to hotel stays. Explore a world of possibilities by transferring your points to over 35 airline partners at a 3:1 ratio. While not always the optimal choice, it adds another layer of versatility to your rewards strategy.
Is the Marriot Bonvoy Bold worth having?
Given the absence of an annual fee, newcomers, much like myself when I initially enrolled in this card, will discover substantial value in the Bonvoy Bold’s welcome bonus and automatic Silver Elite status, making it a compelling choice.
I consistently use this card during our travels, especially in areas without Hilton options or when positive reviews sway me toward a Marriott-branded hotel. The absence of an annual fee assures me that I am optimizing my point redemptions for each stay.
Nonetheless, individuals who frequently stay at Marriott properties and are open to paying an annual fee might find greater benefit in allocating their Chase 5/24 slots to other cards offering more substantial perks.
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