I'm 2 for 2 on claims thus far.
I originally booked a hotel for 38,000 Club Carlson points, found a BW property even closer to where we want to be for $24.00 cheaper and got the rate knocked down to $95.99. So I'll get a $100.00 travel card + get to keep my CC points for another trip that I'm planning to take to Europe. I'll use the travel card to pay for my next booking...and receive another travel card after I check out from that hotel towards a 1-night excursion in Europe. Great deal!
Also, the BRG travel cards DO NOT expire according to two agents that I've spoken with.