If you’ve followed me for any length of time, you know I’m usually not a fan of transferring flexible points to IHG.

Most of the time, the value just isn’t there.

But every once in a while, the math changes — and right now is one of those moments.

A current 70% transfer bonus from Chase to IHG is going on through January 15, 2026. This means that a small handful of luxury IHG properties can be booked for far fewer flexible points than usual, turning what’s typically a poor-value transfer into a strategic one if you have a specific trip in mind.

This is not a blanket recommendation.
But it is an opportunity worth understanding.

Why I Usually Avoid IHG Transfers

IHG uses dynamic pricing, which means award rates often rise alongside cash prices. As hotels get more expensive, so do the points required — often wiping out value. (Actually, you can read all about the IHG program here.)

On top of that:

• IHG points are generally worth less than many other hotel currencies.
• Flexible points are often better used with Hyatt, airlines, or other high-value partners.
• Transfers from Chase to IHG are irreversible – transfer when you’re ready to book!

What Makes This Moment Different

With the current 70% transfer bonus, every 1,000 flexible points becomes 1,700 IHG points.

That dramatically lowers the effective cost of certain high-end redemptions — especially at properties where:

• Cash prices are extremely high.
• Award nights remain relatively stable.
• You’d otherwise never pay cash.

This is where the strategy shifts.

How to Evaluate If This Is A Good Redemption

Before transferring any points, run the numbers:

Cash price ÷ points required = cents per point

With the transfer bonus applied, you may find yourself getting:

• 1.5–2.0+ cents per flexible point
• Significant out-of-pocket savings on luxury stays

If the value isn’t there? Skip it. There will always be another bonus.

Example Where The Math Works In Your Favor

At the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, cash rates often run around $744 per night once taxes and fees are included.

The same room can be booked for 70,000 IHG points per night (amenity fee still applies).

With a 70% transfer bonus, you’d only need about 41,200 Chase points to generate those 70,000 IHG points.

Keep in mind that you get the fourth night free on award bookings. That means you’ll need even less points!

What that looks like in practice:

• Cash price: ~$649 per night (excluding fees) x 4 nights = $2596
• Points used: ~41,200 Chase points x 3 nights = 123,000 points
• Redemption value: ~2.1¢ per point

That’s significantly higher than the typical 0.8¢ per point average with IHG points. And it’s on par with the higher end of redemption values for Chase points when transferred to other partners also!

High-Value IHG Properties Worth Pricing Out Right Now

Here are a few IHG properties where this transfer bonus can unlock strong value when availability exists:

Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa (Grand Cayman)

• Cash rates often: $600–$1,200+ per night.
• Award pricing can be reasonable compared to cash.
• A standout example of where points can save thousands on a longer stay.

ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa

• One of IHG’s most expensive properties including onsite hotsprings
• Award pricing varies ~90K-110K points per night
• A coveted property in Asia

Kimpton Roatan

• One of the most aspirational Kimpton properties
• Cash prices routinely soar during peak travel seasons
• Award nights can offer excellent value when paired with a transfer bonus

Intercontinental London Park Lane

• Cash prices are typically around ~$800
• Award prices fluctuate but can be a great deal
• Luxury hotel nestled in the heart of London

When You Should Not Use This Strategy

This approach is not ideal if:

• You don’t have a specific property or trip planned
• Award availability is limited or nonexistent
• You’d normally redeem your points with higher-value partners
• You’re transferring “just in case”

Flexibility is valuable — and once points move to IHG, they’re locked in.

Favorite Cards that Earn IHG Points

Flexible Earning Cards

Here are some of my favorite cards that earn IHG points directly – no transferring needed! In fact, if you need a HUGE chunk of IHG points, I certainly recommend opening up an IHG credit card with a great welcome offer. It might not become the card I’d recommend that you use every day long term, however, I do think it could be a keeper card. Why? With some of these cards, you’ll receive an annual free night certificate – worth significantly more than the annual fee.

Should You Transfer? A Quick Checklist

Before moving any flexible points to IHG, run through this checklist:

YES — This Might Make Sense If:

• ☐ You have a specific property and travel date in mind
• ☐ Award availability is open for your dates
• ☐ Cash prices are high ($700+ per night is common at luxury resorts)
• ☐ You hold an IHG card that gives you 4th night free
• ☐ The cents-per-point value beats your usual redemptions

NO — Skip the Transfer If:

• ☐ You’re transferring “just in case”
• ☐ Award pricing has jumped alongside cash rates
• ☐ You typically get better value using your points elsewhere
• ☐ You want to preserve maximum flexibility

Once transferred, points can’t go back — so this is a move best made with intention.

Transfer Bonus Calculator

Use this calculator to see if the transfer bonus makes sense for you!

Conclusion

IHG transfers are usually a pass for me.
But with the right bonus, the right property, and the right timing, they can unlock outsized value at luxury resorts you might never pay cash for.

This is a niche strategy — not a default one — but it’s a great example of why understanding the math behind points and miles matters.

Xoxo, Amber