
Unlocking the 50% Transfer Bonus: What You Need to Know
This October 2025, American Express Canada is rolling out a 50% transfer bonus for converting Membership Rewards (MR) points to Hilton Honors points, presenting a significant opportunity for savvy travelers. With this promotion, transferring 1,000 MR points gives you 1,500 Hilton points, rather than the standard 1:1 ratio, making it an attractive time to reconsider how you leverage your points.
The Mechanics Behind the Transfer
When initiating a transfer, it’s important to note that the transfer screen will still display the conventional 1:1 ratio. However, as long as your transfer is made during this promotion, you will receive the additional bonus once your points are credited to your Hilton Honors account. Typically, the bonus may take up to eight weeks to post after the promotion concludes on October 31, 2025, although earlier transfers have sometimes seen bonus points posted quicker.
Is This Transfer Worthwhile?
While the 50% bonus seems enticing, is it the most beneficial use of your Membership Rewards? Experts generally caution against transferring MR points to Hilton Honors without a specific need, as values differ substantially between hotel and flight redemptions. American Express Membership Rewards carry an estimated value of 2.2 cents per point, whereas Hilton Honors points are valued at only 0.7 cents per point. Thus, even with the bonus, the effective value remains lower than transferring to airline partners for flight rewards.
Smart Strategies for Redeeming Points
If you find yourself with extra MR points, consider the best possible use cases. For instance, using the transfer bonus to top off your Hilton Honors account before a planned hotel stay could still add value, particularly if you are eyeing aspirational hotel experiences. Alternatively, if your travel goals align more with flights, consider using your MR points for transfers to programs like Aeroplan or Avios which generally provide greater returns.
Final Thoughts: Make Informed Decisions
Transferring points, especially during promotional periods, can be beneficial, but certainty in the chosen path is key. Always calculate the potential value of your points before making transfers, ensuring that you maximize the enjoyment of your future travel plans. This October, seize the opportunity to make your MR points work for you—just tread thoughtfully and happy travels!
Write A Comment