Wyndham has officially announced the launch of its Wyndham Rewards Debit Card, which would be a first of its kind offering introduces by a major hospitality brand in the U.S
According to certain reports, Wyndham Rewards Debit Card is markedly designed to serve the needs of younger travelers, as well as those who prefer a debt-free lifestyle, making it easy to earn Wyndham Rewards points on day-to-day transactions, from gas and groceries, to dining, retail, and more.
More on that would reveal how points can be redeemed for a wide-range of rewards, including free nights at more than 60,000 hotels, vacation club resorts, and vacation rentals globally. Beyond that, other cardholder perks also include complimentary Wyndham Rewards Gold level membership, hotel booking discounts, a rich annual point bonus, and more.
To understand the significance of such a development, we must take into account one EY study, where it was revealed that nearly 70% of Gen Z consumers use their debit cards once or more per week. A separate research from PMG also went on to deem travel as a key area of spend for Gen Z, with 65% planning to spend more on travel in 2025, and nearly 60% considering loyalty programs essential when booking their travel.
“People who use debit are often overlooked by traditional rewards programs, which is what makes this card—a first of its kind in the hospitality space—so special. What’s more, with the help of Galileo, Wyndham was able to stand its offering up in just a few months. That’s the power of our platform. By bringing together card issuing, processing, Cyberbank Digital and program management, brands can launch quickly and efficiently, delivering innovative financial products that strengthen customer relationships and drive revenue,” said Derek White, CEO of Galileo Financial Technologies.
Talk about new Wyndham Rewards Debit Card on a slightly deeper level, we begin from its easy points earning system, which allows you to earn one Wyndham Rewards point per dollar spent on eligible Hotels by Wyndham, gas, and grocery purchases; and one Wyndham Rewards point per two dollars spent on all other qualifying purchases.
Next up, we must dig into its upgraded status. You see, cardholders can enjoy Wyndham Rewards GOLD level membership, and at the same time, unlock perks like accelerated points earning, preferred rooms, along with late checkout etc.
Another detail worth a mention here is rooted in the availability of a welcome bonus, which makes it possible for you to start your rewards journey with 2,500 Wyndham Rewards bonus points after opening your account. This enables at least two direct deposits and spending of $100 in the first 90 days.
Joining that would be the card’s annual bonus, which will allow you to receive 7,500 bonus points each year on your card anniversary, enough for a free night at thousands of Hotels by Wyndham worldwide.
“Brands are looking for payment products that enhance loyalty and deepen the relationship they have with consumers. The new Wyndham Rewards Debit Card unlocks access to rewards and benefits curated to enhance consumer value while enjoying their passion for travel,” said Chiro Aikat, Co-President of the United States at Mastercard.
Hold on, we still have a few bits left to unpack, considering we haven’t touched upon card’s member booking discount. This discount will allow for users to save even more for stays at participating Hotels by Wyndham.
We also haven’t touched upon Wyndham’s bid to waive monthly fee. In essence, you only have to pay a $6 Monthly Fee, which is waived with a minimum average monthly account balance of $2,500. Not just that, the card even waives any ATM fees you may incur.
“Research continues to show a large number of travelers, particularly younger consumers such as Gen Z, prefer debit cards as their primary method of payment. Unfortunately, that means many have been left on the sidelines when it comes to earning free hotel nights and other travel rewards. With the Wyndham Rewards Debit Card, that’s no longer the case. Now anyone and everyone can enjoy meaningful rewards,” said Charmaine Taylor, SVP, Strategic and Financial Partnership, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
