Hilton Honors points can provide great value when redeemed for event tickets through Ticketmaster. However, determining the exact value depends on several factors. In this article, we’ll examine how Hilton points transfers to Ticketmaster work, look at typical point redemption values, and provide tips for getting the most value from your Hilton points on Ticketmaster purchases.
How Hilton Points Transfers to Ticketmaster Work
Here’s a quick overview of how using Hilton points for Ticketmaster works:
- Link your Hilton Honors and Ticketmaster accounts. This allows you to pay with points.
- When checking out on Ticketmaster, you’ll have the option to pay with all or a portion of Hilton points.
- Hilton points transfer at a rate of approximately 0.5 cents per point. So 1,000 Hilton points = $5 off Ticketmaster.
- You can use Hilton points for all Ticketmaster purchases including concert, sports, theater tickets and more.
The process is straightforward. As long as you have the accounts linked ahead of time, using Hilton points is seamless during the Ticketmaster checkout process.
Typical Redemption Values for Hilton Points on Ticketmaster
While Hilton points transfer at 0.5 cents each, the actual redemption value can vary based on the type of event, seat location, demand, and other factors. Here are some typical values:
- Concert nosebleed seats: 0.4 cents per point
- Concert floor seats: 0.5 cents per point
- Sporting event average seats: 0.4 cents per point
- Sporting event premium seats: 0.6 cents per point
- Theater shows: 0.5 cents per point
As you can see, the value ranges from 0.4 cents on the low end up to 0.6 cents at the high end. While not outsized value, it can still add up to solid savings especially for expensive tickets.
Tips for Maximizing Hilton Points Value on Ticketmaster
Here are some tips to get the most from Hilton points when redeeming for Ticketmaster purchases:
- Target high-demand events where cash prices are inflated. Your points will offset more expensive ticket costs.
- Aim for floor seats or VIP sections at concerts. These tend to yield higher redemption values.
- For sporting events, look for premium club level or near front-row seat options.
- Run the numbers. Calculate the cash price versus points price to determine the redemption rate.
- Don’t forget about fees! The face value of the ticket isn’t the only expense.
- Compare redemption value to other Hilton redemption options before transferring points.
Following these tips can help maximize the value you squeeze from Hilton points when using them on Ticketmaster. With a little work, it’s possible to achieve redemption values of 0.7 cents per point or more.
What Kinds of Tickets Can I Purchase with Hilton Points on Ticketmaster?
Hilton Honors points can be used to purchase any ticket available on Ticketmaster. This includes:
- Concert tickets – for individual concerts or festival passes
- Sports tickets – for leagues like NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer, and more
- Theater shows – Broadway, Las Vegas concerts, etc.
- Family events – Disney on Ice, Circus, Sesame Street Live, etc.
- Arts performances – symphony, ballet, opera, etc.
- Comedy shows and comedy festivals
- Music festivals – Coachella, Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, etc.
- Racing events – motorsports, horse racing, etc.
- WWE and other wrestling events
- Venue tour experiences – behind the scenes tours, VIP experiences
As you can see, Hilton points can be used for pretty much any event listed on Ticketmaster. The options are extensive.
Are There Any Limitations on Tickets I Can Redeem with Hilton Points?
There are a couple minor limitations to be aware of when redeeming Hilton points for Ticketmaster tickets:
- Tickets must be available for purchase directly through Ticketmaster. For example, tickets sold through a fan exchange or by a venue directly may not be available.
- Only event ticket purchases are eligible, not additional services like parking or ticket insurance.
- In very limited cases, an event organizer may restrict point redemptions.
However, these restrictions are quite minor. For the vast majority of tickets listed for sale on Ticketmaster, you can redeem Hilton points with no trouble.
What Is the Process for Using Hilton Points on Ticketmaster?
Here are simple step-by-step instructions for using Hilton Honors points on Ticketmaster purchases:
- Ensure your Hilton Honors and Ticketmaster accounts are linked. You can do this online through either website.
- When logged into Ticketmaster, search for the event tickets you want to purchase.
- When you proceed to checkout, choose the “Pay with Points” option. Here you can decide how many points to apply to the purchase.
- The applicable number of points will be deducted from your Hilton account automatically.
- Complete checkout process as normal by providing Ticketmaster billing and delivery info.
- Receive your tickets! The delivery method (digital or physical) depends on the event.
It’s really a seamless process as long as you have the two accounts connected in advance. The Ticketmaster checkout will guide you through the rest.
Comparing Hilton Points Value for Ticketmaster Purchases vs. Hotel Stays
To determine if it makes sense to use Hilton points for Ticketmaster tickets, it helps to compare the value to redeeming for hotel nights instead. Here’s an overview:
Ticketmaster Point Redemption Value
- Average value: 0.4 – 0.5 cents per point
- Good value: 0.6+ cents per point for premium seats and high-demand events
- Lets you save on leisure activities and entertainment expenses
Hilton Hotel Redemption Value
- Average hotel redemption: 0.4 – 0.5 cents per point
- Good value for top properties: 0.7+ cents per point
- Saves on lodging costs instead of entertainment or leisure
As you can see, the average redemption values tend to align pretty closely. Really it comes down to whether you get more value from reducing lodging or entertainment costs.
Calculating Hilton Points Earnings from Ticketmaster Purchases
In addition to redeeming Hilton points, you also have the opportunity to earn points on Ticketmaster purchases when you use a Hilton credit card. Here’s a quick look at potential earnings:
- Hilton Honors American Express Card: 7x points on Ticketmaster purchases
- Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card: 12x points on Ticketmaster purchases
- Hilton Honors American Express Business Card: 12x points on Ticketmaster purchases
Based on these rates, if you spent $1,000 on Ticketmaster using the Surpass Card, you would earn 12,000 Hilton points. That’s like getting an extra $60 to redeem toward future events.
Bottom Line
While squeezing maximum value takes a bit of work, Hilton Honors points can be quite useful for scoring discounted tickets from Ticketmaster. Given the typical redemption values, it’s hard to beat the savings on expensive concerts, sports events, and other activities.
The key is linking your Hilton and Ticketmaster accounts, watching for high-demand events that drive up redemption value, and comparing value to other redemption options. Following these best practices can lead to big savings on tickets for your favorite entertainment, sports, and family events.