If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably signed up for a hotel rewards program at some point, earned a few points, and only thought about it in rare circumstances. Well, I’m here to tell you that too many folks are sleeping on Marriott’s rewards program.

Often, rewards programs go overlooked if you aren’t a frequent traveler, but Marriott Bonvoy is FREE to join, and absolutely worth doing so because there are some wildly underrated perks hiding in plain sight. We’re talkin’ benefits that might actually change how you plan your vacations altogether.

Let’s break down the Marriott Bonvoy perks that seriously surprised us!

1. You Can Get a FREE Fifth Night on Award Stays

When you book a hotel stay of four nights using points, Marriott Bonvoy gives you a fifth night FREE! This automatic, no-limit perk applies to standard rooms, and the lowest point-value night is comped.

This is one of those perks that feels almost too good to be true — especially if you’re planning a longer trip (especially at Disney World). But — yep — it’s true! This perk is essentially an automatic discount without needing a promo code or special offer.

2. Late Checkout

We’ve all seen late checkout perks with other memberships that are based on availability. However, with Marriott Bonvoy Elite status, you can get guaranteed 4 PM checkout at many properties.

Late checkout means you can sleep in after a long park day, hit the pool one last time, or squeeze in a bonus morning of fun before heading home. It makes a world of difference to not feel rushed out the door.

3. Room Upgrades

Marriott Bonvoy Elite members can score complimentary room upgrades, including suites when available.

These upgrades can include better views, larger rooms, and sometimes full-on suite upgrades. It’s one of those perks that can quietly turn a good stay into a great one.

4. You Can Turn Points Into Experiences

One of the most underrated perks is Marriott Bonvoy Moments, which lets you redeem points for exclusive experiences, like VIP concert access, culinary events, sports packages, and other memorable events.

So instead of just booking a room, your points could land you something way more memorable.

5. Free Breakfast

Free breakfast isn’t universal across all Marriott brands, but there are ways to score free breakfast.

Marriott Bonvoy offers free breakfast through mid-tier brands like Fairfield, Residence Inn, and SpringHill Suites, and Platinum Elite members get breakfast for free at the premium brands, food and beverage credits, and lounge access. It’s not always obvious when booking, but if you know which hotels offer it, you can save a ton on food — especially at pricier destinations.

6. Mobile Check-In and Key

If you’ve ever walked into a crowded hotel lobby after a long travel day, you know the pain of waiting in line at the front desk. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, you can check in before you arrive, use your phone as your room key, and head straight to your room.

It’s one of those small conveniences that feels *huge* in the moment.

7. You Can Pool Points With Family and Friends

Believe it or not, but Marriott lets you transfer points between accounts for FREE — with some limitations, of course.

Families can combine points for a bigger trip, and friends can pool together for a group stay. It’s a super flexible feature that a lot of other programs don’t offer.

8. Elite Status Isn’t As Hard to Get As You Think

You don’t need to always be traveling to unlock better perks. You can earn a higher tier through credit card partnerships, the occasional promotion, and by planning your stays strategically and taking advantage of stays that offer greater opportunities of tier climbing.

You can climb into elite tiers faster than you’d expect — and that’s where many of the best benefits kick in.

Marriott Bonvoy is quietly packed with perks that can seriously upgrade your travel experience. From free nights to late checkout to unexpected upgrades, there’s a lot more value here than meets the eye.

We’re always scouting out the best ways to save and enhance your vacations, so keep it posted right here at DFB for all the latest tips and updates!

Say WHAT?! We’re Sharing the SECRET To Getting 5 FREE Nights at This Disney World Hotel