What the IHG Friends and Family Rate Is
The IHG Friends and Family rate is a discounted room rate that InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) offers to cardholders and their guests at participating properties. It is not a separate membership tier or a benefit you unlock—it is a specific nightly rate that appears in the booking system when you search as an IHG Rewards member or when you book using a may have access to IHG credit card.
The discount typically ranges from 10 to 20 percent off the standard room rate, though the exact percentage varies by hotel, location, and season. Some properties offer deeper discounts during slower periods. The rate is usually non-refundable once booked, and it cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts.
This rate exists because IHG credit card issuers (Chase, primarily) negotiate it as a cardholder benefit. When you hold an IHG card, you are may have access to to search for and book these rates. You can also share the rate with friends and family members by providing them with a special code or link, which is where the "Friends and Family" name comes from.
Key Takeaways
- The Friends and Family rate is a discounted nightly rate available to IHG credit cardholders and anyone they give a booking code to.
- You must search for the rate using your IHG Rewards account or a special promotional code provided by your card issuer to see it in the booking system.
- The discount typically ranges from 10 to 20 percent off standard rates, but not all properties participate and rates vary by location and season.
- The rate is usually non-refundable and cannot be stacked with other promotions, elite status discounts, or loyalty program benefits.
- You can share the rate with friends and family by forwarding them the promotional code or booking link your card issuer provides.
How to Find and Book the Friends and Family Rate
To access the rate, log into your IHG Rewards account on the IHG website or app. Search for your hotel, dates, and room type as you normally would. The Friends and Family rate will appear alongside standard rates if it is available at that property. You do not need to enter a code or take any extra step—it shows up automatically once you are logged in as a Rewards member.
If you do not see the rate, it may not be available at that particular hotel, or it may not be available for your travel dates. Some properties, especially luxury or resort locations, do not participate in the Friends and Family program. Checking the rate calendar can help you see which dates have the discount available.
Once you select the Friends and Family rate and complete your booking, you will receive a confirmation email with your reservation details. The rate is locked in at that point. You cannot change it to a different rate type after booking unless you cancel and rebook, which may result in losing the discount if rates have changed.
Sharing the Rate With Friends and Family
Your card issuer periodically sends you a promotional code or a direct booking link that you can forward to friends and family. This code allows them to see and book the Friends and Family rate even if they do not hold an IHG credit card themselves. The code typically has an expiration date and may be limited to a certain number of uses.
To share the rate, you straightforward forward the code or link to the people you want to invite. They enter the code at checkout or use the link directly to access the discounted rate. They do not need to create an IHG Rewards account, though doing so can earn them points on the stay.
Check your credit card statement, the issuer's website, or your email for the current promotional code. If you cannot find it, contact your card issuer's customer service line—they can provide the code or a direct link. The code changes periodically, so an old code may not work.
How the Friends and Family Rate Compares to Other IHG Discounts
IHG offers several ways to save on hotel stays, and it is worth understanding how they stack against each other. The Friends and Family rate is typically better than the standard public rate but may not always beat elite status discounts or member-only promotions that run during specific periods.
| Discount Type | Who Gets It | Typical Savings | Can Be Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friends and Family Rate | IHG credit cardholders and code recipients | 10–20% off standard rate | No |
| Elite Status Discount | IHG Rewards members with Diamond or Platinum status | 5–10% off standard rate | No |
| Member-Only Promotions | IHG Rewards members (all tiers) | Varies; sometimes 20%+ off | No |
| Standard Public Rate | Anyone | No discount | N/A |
The Friends and Family rate cannot be combined with elite status discounts, member-only promotions, or other special offers. When you book, you choose one rate type. If you hold elite status and have access to a Friends and Family code, compare the two rates for your specific dates and property before booking—sometimes the elite discount is better, sometimes the Friends and Family rate is.
Restrictions and Things to Know Before Booking
The Friends and Family rate is almost always non-refundable. This means if you need to cancel, you lose the money you paid. Some properties may allow you to change your dates without penalty, but cancellation typically results in forfeiture of the full amount. Read the terms carefully before you book.
The rate does not earn elite night credits toward status advancement, even if you are an IHG Rewards member. It does earn base points, so you will accumulate rewards currency, but the stay will not count toward elite qualification thresholds. If you are close to earning elite status, booking a standard rate instead might be more valuable in the long run.
The rate is subject to availability and can sell out. Popular hotels in high-demand seasons may have limited inventory at the Friends and Family price. If you see it available, booking sooner rather than later reduces the risk of it disappearing before your travel date.
When the Friends and Family Rate May Not Be Your Best Option
If you are working toward elite status with IHG, a standard rate that earns elite night credits may be worth more than the Friends and Family discount. A single elite night credit can be valuable if you are close to the next tier, which unlocks benefits like room upgrades and late checkout.
If a member-only promotion is running during your travel dates, compare the discount percentage to the Friends and Family rate. IHG occasionally runs flash sales or seasonal promotions that exceed the standard Friends and Family discount. Check the promotions page before booking.
If you need a refundable rate for flexibility, the Friends and Family rate is not the right choice. You will need to book a standard refundable rate and accept paying full price for that flexibility.
How to Get a Friends and Family Code If You Do Not Have One
If you hold an IHG credit card but have not received a promotional code, check your email (including spam and promotions folders) for messages from your card issuer. Codes are typically sent to the email address on file with your card account.
Log into your card issuer's website or mobile app and look for a promotions or benefits section. Many issuers display current codes there. If you still cannot find it, call the customer service number on the back of your card and ask for the current Friends and Family promotional code. They can provide it when ready or email it to you.
If you do not hold an IHG credit card but want to book the Friends and Family rate, you will need someone who does to share their code with you. The code is typically shareable and can be used by multiple people, so asking a friend or family member who holds the card is the simplest path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Friends and Family rate if I do not have an IHG credit card?
Yes, if someone who holds the card shares their promotional code with you. You can use the code to book the rate without having the card yourself. You do not need to create an IHG Rewards account, though you can if you want to earn points on the stay.
Does the Friends and Family rate earn elite night credits?
No. The rate earns base points but does not count toward elite night qualification. If you are working toward elite status, a standard rate may be more valuable despite the higher nightly cost.
Can I combine the Friends and Family rate with my elite status discount?
No. You must choose one rate type at booking. Compare the two discounts for your specific hotel and dates, then book whichever offers the better price.
What happens if I need to cancel a Friends and Family booking?
The rate is non-refundable, so you will lose the full amount you paid. Some properties allow date changes without penalty, but cancellation typically means forfeiture of the entire reservation cost. Check the terms for your specific booking.
How often does IHG send out new Friends and Family codes?
The frequency varies by card issuer and cardholder status. Codes are typically sent several times per year, often around peak travel seasons. Check your email and your card issuer's website regularly for current codes.