Hyatt Grants Select Elites, Cardholders Early Award Booking

World of Hyatt announced this week that it is now providing select members with enhanced award booking access. Specifically, World of Hyatt credit cardholders and members with mid- and top-tier elite status, including Explorist and Globalist tiers, can book free night awards up to 13 months in advance. This new perk also extends to desirable hotels that historically have limited award availability. Previously, all World of Hyatt members had access to this 13-month advance booking window.

The change means that while some members lose this benefit, it is now a significant advantage for those holding a Hyatt co-branded credit card or maintaining higher elite status. For instance, a Globalist member can now book award nights at the Grand Hyatt Kauai in Hawaii for August of the following year, a property known for its scarcity of award availability. Hyatt's system flags this special access for top-tier elites, stating, "As a Globalist, you're among select members who get a first look at award night inventory. You can view and book award nights one month sooner."

This enhanced availability is particularly beneficial during peak travel times and high-profile events. Members can potentially secure bookings at sought-after locations such as Tokyo or Kyoto during cherry blossom season, or at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek during ski season. The ability to book award nights more than a year in advance at these popular destinations provides a competitive edge for Hyatt's most loyal customers and cardholders, offering a more positive development following a series of program devaluations.