At TheMilesAcademy, we know Hilton Honors members often wonder which credit card will help them get more points, elite perks, and free nights faster. This year, Hilton offers four co-branded American Express cards that are all solid options—depending on how much you spend and travel.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through each Hilton credit card, explain what kind of traveler it’s best for, and help you decide which one makes the most sense for you right now.
Hilton Honors American Express Card
If you’re just starting with points and don’t want to pay an annual fee, this is the card for you. It’s free to keep long-term, earns decent rewards, and gives you automatic Silver elite status.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Current Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors points after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months
- Points Earning:
- 7x at Hilton properties
- 5x at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations
- 3x on everything else
- Key Perks:
- Silver elite status (with 20% bonus on points)
- No foreign transaction fees
Best for: Beginners or casual travelers who stay with Hilton once or twice a year.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
The Surpass Card hits a sweet spot. It gives you Gold status (which can mean daily breakfast or a food and beverage credit), more bonus categories, and a Free Night Reward after $15,000 in annual spend.
- Annual Fee: $150
- Current Welcome Offer: Earn 155,000 points after $3,000 in purchases within the first 6 months
- Points Earning:
- 12x at Hilton properties
- 6x at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations
- 3x on all other purchases
- Key Perks:
- Gold status (upgraded room, free breakfast/credit)
- Free Night Certificate after $15K spend
- 10 Priority Pass visits/year
Best for: Regular travelers who want to get elite perks without paying a premium fee.
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire® Card
If you’re loyal to Hilton and want the royal treatment every stay, the Aspire Card delivers. It comes with Diamond status, a Free Night Reward every year (plus more with spending), and luxury travel credits.
- Annual Fee: $550
- Current Welcome Offer: Earn 180,000 Hilton Honors points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months
- Points Earning:
- 14x at Hilton hotels
- 7x on flights booked directly, car rentals, and restaurants
- 3x everywhere else
- Key Perks:
- Diamond status (best rooms, lounge access)
- $200 Hilton Resort Credit (semiannual)
- $200 airline incidental credit (semiannual)
- Unlimited Priority Pass access
- Up to 3 Free Night Rewards with spend
Best for: Frequent Hilton guests and luxury travelers who can fully use the card’s many credits.
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
This small business version mirrors many Surpass benefits but includes a few business-specific perks. Great for entrepreneurs who travel often.
- Annual Fee: $195
- Current Welcome Offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months
- Points Earning:
- 12x at Hilton
- 6x at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, shipping, wireless, and flights booked directly
- 3x on other purchases
- Key Perks:
- Gold status
- Free Night Reward after $15K spend
- Amex business expense tools
Best for: Business owners who want to earn big on travel and business spending while enjoying elite Hilton perks.
Comparing All Four Hilton Credit Cards: Quick Chart
| Card | Annual Fee | Welcome Offer | Status | Free Night Reward | Lounge Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilton Amex (No Fee) | $0 | 80K after $2K spend | Silver | No | No |
| Surpass Card | $150 | 155K after $3K spend | Gold | Yes (after $15K spend) | 10 visits |
| Aspire Card | $550 | 180K after $6K spend | Diamond | Yes (1/year + more with spend) | Unlimited |
| Business Card | $195 | 130K after $3K spend | Gold | Yes (after $15K spend) | No |
What’s the Best Hilton Credit Card for You in 2025?
It depends on your travel habits and how much you value Hilton elite status and benefits:
- Want a no-cost way to earn Hilton points? Go for the no-annual-fee Hilton Amex Card.
- Like elite perks and stay a few times a year? The Surpass Card gives the best bang for your buck.
- Travel often with Hilton and want top-tier benefits? The Aspire Card is unbeatable—if you use the credits.
- Own a business? The Hilton Amex Business Card is ideal if you want to earn while you spend on operations.
Choose the Hilton Card That Matches Your Travel Style
Whether you’re a once-a-year vacationer or a road warrior with diamond dreams, Hilton and American Express have a card for you. The key is picking the one that fits your budget, unlocks the benefits you’ll actually use, and earns you more free nights faster.
Need help pairing your Hilton card with the right travel strategy? At TheMilesAcademy, we’re here to walk you through every step of the way. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your points game, our expert team will help you make the most of your Hilton Honors credit card.
Join our free Skool Community today and get insider tips, hands-on guidance, and real strategies to turn your everyday spending into unforgettable Hilton stays.
