Hotel chains devalue loyalty points and make free stays harder to get

For frequent flyers and business travelers, the last few weeks have brought discouraging news. Amid ever-increasing belt-tightening trends, several hotel chains and a major airline have decided to scale back on customer loyalty programs, sparking anger among many customers.

Since earlier this year, Marriott International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels Group, and Starwood Hotels & Resorts all have effectively devalued their customer loyalty programs, now requiring more points, and sometimes more cash, in order to obtain a reward room.