{"id":8955,"date":"2026-02-05T23:50:01","date_gmt":"2026-02-05T23:50:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/?p=8955"},"modified":"2026-04-08T14:33:24","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T14:33:24","slug":"how-to-get-hotel-elite-status-for-free","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/hotels\/how-to-get-hotel-elite-status-for-free\/","title":{"rendered":"Earn Hotel Elite Status Without the Stays: The Best Shortcuts by Program"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Hotel elite status can make travel noticeably better \u2014 upgrades, late checkout, bonus points, and perks like breakfast or a welcome amenity. To unlock these perks, travelers typically need to invest significant time and money to meet elite status requirements. Fortunately, savvy travelers can earn hotel elite status through shortcuts such as credit card perks, status matches, or challenges.<\/p>\n<p>In this guide, we outline the most practical ways to earn hotel elite status for free (or close to it), organized by loyalty program. For each one, we\u2019ll cover the easiest path, what you actually get at that tier, and the key caveats to know before you build your strategy around it.<\/p>\n<div id=\"toc_container\" class=\"toc_light_blue no_bullets\"><p class=\"toc_title\">Page Contents<\/p><ul class=\"toc_list\"><li><a href=\"#Hilton_Honors\">Hilton Honors<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_gifting\">Elite status gifting<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#IHG_One_Rewards\">IHG One Rewards<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers-2\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-2\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match-2\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Marriott_Bonvoy\">Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers-3\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-3\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_challenge\">Elite status challenge<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#RewardsPlus_United_MileagePlus_partnership\">RewardsPlus: United MileagePlus partnership<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_gifting-2\">Elite status gifting<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#MGM_Rewards_tier_matching\">MGM Rewards tier matching<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#World_of_Hyatt_Elite_Status\">World of Hyatt Elite Status<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-4\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match-3\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Meetings_and_events\">Meetings and events<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Best_Western\">Best Western<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers-4\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-5\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match-4\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Choice_Privileges\">Choice Privileges<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers-5\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-6\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match-5\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Leading_Hotels_of_the_World_Leaders_Club\">Leading Hotels of the World Leaders Club<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers-6\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-7\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Sonesta_Travel_Pass\">Sonesta Travel Pass<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers-7\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-8\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match-6\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Wyndham_Rewards\">Wyndham Rewards<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers-8\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-9\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match-7\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_gifting-3\">Elite status gifting<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Caesars_Resorts\">Caesars Resorts<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_tiers-9\">Elite status tiers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-10\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match-8\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#MGM_Rewards\">MGM Rewards<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Credit_cards-11\">Credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Elite_status_match-9\">Elite status match<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Final_Thoughts\">Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n<h2><span id=\"Hilton_Honors\">Hilton Honors<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Hilton is one of the largest hotel companies worldwide. Its <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/hilton-honors\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Hilton Honors <\/a><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/hilton-honors\/\" rel=\"noopener\">program<\/a> includes more than 9,000 properties around the world, including iconic brands like Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, Hilton, Curio, and DoubleTree.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/news\/hilton-honors\/program-changes-2026\/\">Hilton Honors received an overhaul in 2026<\/a>. There are now four levels of elite status above the basic Member level, each earned based on your activity with Hilton.\u00a0There is a <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/hilton-honors\/hilton-benefits-we-love\/\" rel=\"noopener\">lot to love about the Hilton Honors program<\/a>, and elite status comes with a host of perks.<\/p>\n<p>Status tier levels include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Silver<\/li>\n<li>Gold<\/li>\n<li>Diamond<\/li>\n<li>Diamond Reserve<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-245\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-245 tablepress-responsive\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1 odd\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Status Tier<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Requirements<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Benefits<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Member<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Sign up for Hilton Honors<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Hilton Honors Discount Rate<br \/>\nEarn points toward free nights & more<br \/>\nNo resort fees on reward stays<br \/>\nDigital Check-in option and Digital Key<br \/>\nFree WiFi<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Silver Elite<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">10 nights OR 4 stays OR $2,500 in annual spending<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">All Member benefits plus...<br \/>\n20% Bonus Points on stays (12 Honors points per $1 spent)<br \/>\nFifth night free on reward stays<br \/>\nTwo free bottles of water per stay<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Gold Elite<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">25 nights OR 15 stays OR $6,000 in annual spending<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">All Silver benefits plus...<br \/>\n80% Bonus Points on stays (18 Honors points per $1 spent)<br \/>\nSpace-available room upgrades, up to rooms on the executive level (at property discretion)<br \/>\nDaily food and beverage credit or continental breakfast at select brands (varies by hotel)<br \/>\nMilestone Bonuses<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Diamond Elite<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">50 nights OR 25 stays OR $11,500 in annual spending<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">All Gold benefits plus...<br \/>\n100% Bonus Points on stays (20 Honors points per $1 spent)<br \/>\nSpace-available room upgrades, up to standard suites (at property discretion)<br \/>\nExecutive lounge access<br \/>\nDiamond status extension<br \/>\nPremium WiFi<br \/>\n48-hour room guarantee<br \/>\nElite status gifting<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Diamond Reserve Elite<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">80 nights OR 40 stays, AND $18,000 in annual spending<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">All Diamond benefits plus...<br \/>\n120% Bonus Points on stays (22 Honors points per $1 spent)<br \/>\n4:00 p.m. guaranteed late checkout<br \/>\nConfirmable upgrade reward<br \/>\nExclusive customer service<br \/>\nPremium club access<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<figure id=\"attachment_235810\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-235810 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Hilton-Botanika-Osa-Featured.png\" alt=\"Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton aerial view.\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Hilton-Botanika-Osa-Featured.png 1000w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Hilton-Botanika-Osa-Featured-750x600.png 750w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Hilton-Botanika-Osa-Featured-900x720.png 900w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Hilton-Botanika-Osa-Featured-768x614.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Hilton-Botanika-Osa-Featured-325x260.png 325w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton. Credit: Hilton<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3 id=\"Credit_CardsxdXX\"><span id=\"Credit_cards\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Hilton offers four co-branded cards that provide elite status.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/hilton-honors\/hilton-diamond-status\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Hilton Honors\u2122 Diamond status<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0via <a data-ccid=\"4048211\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-HiltonHonorsAmericanExpressAspire\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/hotels\/hilton-honors\/hilton-gold-status\/\">Hilton Honors\u2122 Gold status<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0via <a data-ccid=\"4048089\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-HiltonHonorsAmericanExpressSurpassCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hilton Honors American Express Surpass<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a> or <a data-ccid=\"4028102\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/HiltonHonorsBusinessCardfromAmericanExpress\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/hilton-honors\/hilton-silver-status\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Hilton Honors\u2122 Silver status<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0via <a data-ccid=\"4048112\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-HiltonHonorsAmericanExpressCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hilton Honors American Express Card<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>Enrollment is required for select Amex benefits.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>In addition to the Hilton co-branded cards, <a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-ThePlatinumCardfromAmericanExpress\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">American Express Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> or <a data-ccid=\"4028096\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/TheBusinessPlatinumCardfromAmericanExpressOPEN\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The Business Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> from American Express<\/a> cardmembers can enroll for Hilton Honors\u2122\u202fGold status as one of the many benefits provided with each card.<\/p>\n<p>In total, six credit cards offer complimentary Hilton Honors elite status. While most of these cards carry an annual fee, the value of elite perks can easily outweigh the cost for frequent Hilton guests.<\/p>\n<div class=\"compare-cards-wrap compare-count-cards-3 compare-p-american-express\"><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img data-aspectratio=\"150\/95\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/CardArt-HiltonHonorsAmericanExpressAspireCard-1.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Limited-Time Offer<\/strong>\r\nEarn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 4\/15\/2026.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-how-apply\" title='Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card' data-ccid=\"4048211\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-HiltonHonorsAmericanExpressAspire\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">How to Apply<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$550<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048211\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/hilton-honors-aspire-credit-card\/26129-10-0#FeeTable\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><br>(Terms apply)<\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul><li>14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio<\/li>\r\n \t<li>7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on flights booked directly with airlines or <a href=\"http:\/\/amextravel.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">amextravel.com<\/a>, car rentals booked directly through select rental companies, and at U.S. restaurants<\/li>\r\n         <li>3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.nextinsure.com\/imaging\/opt\/0fb236dd-aecb-49ed-9f28-94aaf0efd9a2.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Hilton Honors American Express Surpass\u00ae Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Hilton Honors American Express Surpass<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Limited-Time Offer<\/strong>\r\nEarn 130,000 Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 4\/15\/2026.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-how-apply\" title='Hilton Honors American Express Surpass\u00ae Card' data-ccid=\"4048089\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-HiltonHonorsAmericanExpressSurpassCard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">How to Apply<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$150<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048089\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/hilton-honors-surpass-credit-card\/26129-10-0#FeeTable\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><br>(Terms Apply)<\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul><li>12X bonus points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio<\/li>\r\n \t<li>6X bonus points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your card at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations<\/li>\r\n<li>4X bonus points on U.S online retail purchases<\/li>\r\n         <li>3X bonus points for all other eligible purchases on your card<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.nextinsure.com\/imaging\/opt\/e671653b-c490-4729-9c84-06cd764bdbe0.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Hilton Honors American Express Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Hilton Honors American Express Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Limited-Time Offer<\/strong> Earn 70,000 Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 4\/15\/2026.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-how-apply\" title='Hilton Honors American Express Card' data-ccid=\"4048112\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-HiltonHonorsAmericanExpressCard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">How to Apply<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$0<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048112\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/hilton-honors-credit-card\/26129-10-0#offer-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><br>(Terms apply)<\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n         <li>Earn 7X Points per dollar on eligible purchases charged directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Honors portfolio of brands<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Earn 5X Points per dollar on eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations<\/li>\r\n         <li>Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<p><strong>Related: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/hilton-honors\/hilton-credit-card\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Which Hilton Honors Credit Card Is Right for You?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"Elite_Status_Match\"><span id=\"Elite_status_match\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Hilton Honors offers a <a href=\"\/hotels\/hilton-honors\/hilton-status-match\/\">status match<\/a> that grants Gold status on a 90-day trial, with a fast track to Diamond.<\/p>\n<p>You'll need to provide proof of elite status with another hotel loyalty program and evidence of at least one qualifying stay within the past 12 months. If you have elite status through another program's credit card, you must complete at least one stay <em>before<\/em> requesting a status match with Hilton.<\/p>\n<p>Once approved, you\u2019ll have 90 days to complete six paid nights to retain Gold status through March 31, 2028. Completing 12 paid nights during the trial period upgrades you to Diamond status through the same date.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"Elite_Status_Gifting\"><span id=\"Elite_status_gifting\">Elite status gifting<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Do you know a Diamond (or Diamond Reserve) member?<\/p>\n<p>Hilton Honors Diamond members can gift status to other Hilton Honors members. Top-tier members who stay 60 nights in a calendar year can gift Gold status to someone. After 100 nights, members can gift Diamond status to a friend or family member. This may be the fastest free route to status if you know the right people.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related: <a href=\"\/travel\/gift-elite-status\/\">16 Airlines and Hotels That Let You Share Elite Status<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"IHG_Rewards_Club_Elite_Status_for_Free_or_Almost_Free\"><span id=\"IHG_One_Rewards\">IHG One Rewards<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Compared to other major hotel loyalty programs, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/ihg-one-rewards\/\" rel=\"noopener\">IHG One Rewards<\/a> doesn\u2019t hold quite the appeal for rewards travelers chasing top-tier elite perks. Still, the program offers broad appeal thanks to its wide-ranging portfolio \u2014 spanning aspirational stays at brands like InterContinental, Six Senses, Kimpton, and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/world-of-hyatt\/mr-mrs-smith\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Mr & Mrs Smith<\/a>, alongside more affordable options such as Holiday Inn and Staybridge Suites.<\/p>\n<p>That mix makes IHG One Rewards a solid fit for budget-conscious travelers who value simplicity and consistency, allowing them to earn and redeem within a single program across a range of price points.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers-2\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>There are four tiers to <a href=\"\/hotels\/ihg-one-rewards\/ihg-elite-status\/\">IHG One Rewards elite status<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/ihg-one-rewards\/silver-elite-benefits\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Silver Elite<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Gold Elite<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"\/hotels\/ihg-one-rewards\/ihg-platinum-elite\/\">Platinum Elite<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Diamond Elite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"_3OaX2q\">\n<div class=\"_2I-kza _3sacZq\">\n<table id=\"tablepress-590\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-590 tablepress-responsive\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1 odd\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Benefit<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Club Member<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Silver Elite<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Gold Elite<\/th><th class=\"column-5\">Platinum Elite<\/th><th class=\"column-6\">Diamond Elite<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Free internet<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Bonus points<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">20%<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">40%<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">60%<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">100%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Points don't expire<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Rollover nights for next year's status<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Rewards night promotional discounts<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Guaranteed room availability<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\">72 hours<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">72 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Complimentary upgrades, based on availability at check-in<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Welcome amenity at check-in<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Early check-in, based on availability<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Late checkout, based on availability<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2 p.m.<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2 p.m.<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2 p.m.<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">2 p.m.<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">2 p.m.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Dedicated Diamond support line<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\"><\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Hertz Gold Plus Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Status<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Five Star<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Five Star<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">President's Circle<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<figure id=\"attachment_234643\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-234643 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IHG-Intercontinental-Maamunagau-Featured.png\" alt=\"InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort.\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IHG-Intercontinental-Maamunagau-Featured.png 1000w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IHG-Intercontinental-Maamunagau-Featured-300x240.png 300w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IHG-Intercontinental-Maamunagau-Featured-768x614.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IHG-Intercontinental-Maamunagau-Featured-325x260.png 325w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort. Credit: IHG<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3><span id=\"Credit_cards-2\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The easiest way to secure elite status through IHG is to open an <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/ihg-one-rewards\/ihg-credit-cards\/\" rel=\"noopener\">IHG credit card<\/a>. IHG currently has three different credit cards that offer elite status:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Silver Elite status<\/strong> through the <a data-ccid=\"4048176\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/IHGRewardsClubTravelerCreditCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048176\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005139&type=3&u1=8738eebdf3d508cb02eec1936f7d52b3&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Platinum Elite status<\/strong> through the <a data-ccid=\"4048106\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/IHGRewardsClubPremierCreditCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048106\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005138&type=3&u1=bc24414d8840bdf5c549c43436bd8070&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>) or the <a data-ccid=\"4048281\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/IHGRewardsPremierBusinessMastercard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048281\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005140&type=3&u1=27b3bce7d9d382ea03f2c94c80a84ca7&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition, IHG One Rewards Traveler Card cardholders can earn Gold Elite status with $20,000 in eligible spending each calendar year. Premier cardholders (both the business and the personal card) can earn top-tier IHG Rewards Diamond Elite status with $40,000 spent on qualifying purchases in a calendar year.<\/p>\n<p>The <a data-ccid=\"4048196\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/UnitedClubInfinite\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">United Club\u2120 Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048196\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005115&type=3&u1=fd9f9b9332001b70356d462c1f5b2d00&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>) provides all cardholders with complimentary Platinum Elite status in IHG One Rewards.<\/p>\n<p>Finally, if you're a heavy spender on your <a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphireReserve\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Chase Sapphire Reserve<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1975477.10005148&type=3&subid=037065e8520fba81f6895d8d518b66583&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>) or <a data-ccid=\"5048384\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphireReserveBusiness\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Sapphire Reserve for Business\u2120<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"5048384\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1833067.10005328&type=3&u1=897f5a8f3ff046a91b6a205fdf79abb4&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>), you can earn IHG Diamond Elite. Sapphire Reserve cardholders must spend $75,000 on their card to reach Diamond status, while Sapphire Reserve Business need to spend $120,000 each year.<\/p>\n<div class=\"compare-cards-wrap compare-count-cards-3 compare-p-chase\"><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img data-aspectratio=\"150\/95\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/CardArt-IHGRewardsClubTravelerCreditCard.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong> \r\nEarn 80,000 Bonus Points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-apply-now\" title='IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card' data-ccid=\"4048176\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/IHGRewardsClubTravelerCreditCard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Apply Now<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$0<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048176\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005139&type=3&u1=8738eebdf3d508cb02eec1936f7d52b3&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Good\/Excellent<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>Earn up to 17X points total per $1 spent when you stay at an IHG hotel<\/li>\r\n<li>3X points per $1 spent on dining, utilities, select streaming services, and at gas stations<\/li>\r\n<li>2X points per $1 spent on all other purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<br>\r\nThe earning for spending at IHG hotels breaks down as follows:\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Earn 5X points for being a IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Cardmember<\/li>\r\n<li>Earn up to 2X points from IHG<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> with Silver Elite Status, a benefit of this Card<\/li>\r\n<li>Earn up to 10X points from IHG<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> for being an IHG<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Rewards Club Member (Being a cardholder is not required to earn this bonus for participating in the IHG<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> loyalty program)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img data-aspectratio=\"150\/95\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/cardart-ihgonerewardspremiercreditcard.png\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong>\r\nEarn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-apply-now\" title='IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card' data-ccid=\"4048106\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/IHGRewardsClubPremierCreditCard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Apply Now<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$99<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048106\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005138&type=3&u1=bc24414d8840bdf5c549c43436bd8070&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>Earn up to 26 points total per $1 spent when you stay at an IHG hotel<\/li>\r\n<li>5X points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, gas stations, and restaurants<\/li>\r\n<li>3X points per $1 spent on all other purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<br>\r\nThe earning for spending at IHG hotels breaks down as follows:\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Earn 10X points for being a IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card member<\/li>\r\n<li>Earn up to 6X points from IHG<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> with Platinum Elite Status, a benefit of having this card<\/li>\r\n<li>Earn up to 10X points from IHG<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> for being an IHG<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> One Rewards member (Being a cardholder is not required to earn this bonus for participating in the IHG<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> loyalty program)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.nextinsure.com\/imaging\/opt\/450a0407-44c5-45f1-a335-068eefc6cb45.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"United Club\u2120 Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">United Club\u2120 Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Limited Time Offer<\/strong> Earn up to 110,000 bonus miles and 3,000 PQP after qualifying activities <\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-apply-now\" title='United Club\u2120 Card' data-ccid=\"4048196\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/UnitedClubInfinite\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Apply Now<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$695<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048196\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005115&type=3&u1=fd9f9b9332001b70356d462c1f5b2d00&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--6\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>Earn 5 miles per $1 spent on United<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> purchases*<\/li>\r\n<li>Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel<\/li>\r\n<li>Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining<\/li>\r\n<li> Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n*11X total miles per $1 spent on eligible United<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> flights<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_match-2\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/news\/ihg-one-rewards\/ihg-elite-fast-track\/\" rel=\"noopener\">IHG sometimes offers status match opportunities<\/a>, especially toward the end of a calendar year. It's typically a targeted offer that requires you to spend a certain number of qualifying nights at an IHG property to earn status for the following year.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related: <a href=\"\/hotels\/status-match-offers\/\">Hotel Elite Status Made Easy: Status Matches, Fast Tracks, and Credit Card Perks<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"Marriott_Bonvoy_Elite_Status_for_Free_or_Almost_Free\"><span id=\"Marriott_Bonvoy\">Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>With three dozen brands and 9,600 properties around the world, Marriott International has a huge global footprint. Whether you prefer to stay at luxury brands like the Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options with Moxy or TownePlace Suites, there's something for everyone.\u00a0<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers-3\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Marriott's Bonvoy program<\/a> offers five elite tiers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li id=\"Marriott_Bonvoy_Elite_Status_for_Free_or_Almost_Free\">Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae <\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/silver-elite-benefits\/\">Silver Elite status<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/gold-elite-benefits\/\"><\/a>Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> <a href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/gold-elite-benefits\/\">Gold Elite status<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/marriott-platinum-benefits\/\"><\/a>Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> <a href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/marriott-platinum-benefits\/\">Platinum Elite status<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Titanium Elite<\/li>\n<li>Ambassador Elite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-1145\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-1145 tablepress-responsive\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1 odd\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Benefits<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Silver Elite<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Gold Elite<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">Platinum Elite<\/th><th class=\"column-5\">Titanium Elite<\/th><th class=\"column-6\">Ambassador Elite<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Bonus points<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">10%<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">25%<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">50%<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">75%<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">75%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Late checkout<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Priority late checkout<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2:00 p.m.<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">4:00 p.m.<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">4:00 p.m.<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">4:00 p.m.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Guaranteed welcome gift<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Points<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Points, Breakfast Offering, or Amenity<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Points, Breakfast Offering, or Amenity<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Points, Breakfast Offering, or Amenity<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Points, Breakfast Offering, or Amenity<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Enhanced Room Upgrade<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Yes, including suites<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes, including suites<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes, including suites<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Dedicated elite support<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Annual choice benefit<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Stay 50 Qualifying Nights<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Stay 75 Qualifying Nights<\/td><td class=\"column-6\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">48-hour room guarantee<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Your24\u2122: Choose your check-in time and keep your room until that same time on your day of departure<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\"><\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Hertz Gold Plus Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Fast track to Five Star<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Five Star<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">President's Circle<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">United MileagePlus Benefits<\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Premier Silver status<\/td><td class=\"column-6\">Premier Silver status<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<figure id=\"attachment_241271\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-241271 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Marriott-Featured-StRegis-Lankawi.png\" alt=\"Walkway to the St. Regis Langkawi.\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Marriott-Featured-StRegis-Lankawi.png 1000w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Marriott-Featured-StRegis-Lankawi-750x600.png 750w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Marriott-Featured-StRegis-Lankawi-900x720.png 900w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Marriott-Featured-StRegis-Lankawi-768x614.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Marriott-Featured-StRegis-Lankawi-325x260.png 325w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>The St. Regis Langkawi. Credit: Marriott<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3 id=\"Credit_CardsRSeh\"><span id=\"Credit_cards-3\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/marriott-bonvoy\/marriott-credit-card\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Marriott has several credit cards available<\/a>, issued through Chase and American Express, offering the following status perks:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Silver Elite status<\/strong> through the <a data-ccid=\"4048164\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseMarriottBonvoyBoldCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Marriott Bonvoy Bold<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Credit Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048164\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1993744.10005145&type=3&subid=0=bcc7ede86fc03d37354f3b95f5e2e2b1&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>), plus receive five elite night credits each calendar year.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Silver Elite status<\/strong> through the <a data-ccid=\"4048146\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseMarriottBonvoyBoundlessCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Marriott Bonvoy Boundless<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Credit Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048146\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1993744.10005146&type=3&subid=0=9eb93aa55f0acdf3eef7d2e9c1d0eb26&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>), plus receive 15 elite night credits each calendar year and earn 1 elite night credit for every $5,000 of spending on your card. Spend your way to <strong>Gold Elite<\/strong> status by making $35,000 in purchases in an account year.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Gold Elite status<\/strong> through the <a data-ccid=\"5048293\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-MarriottBonvoyBevyAmericanExpressCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Marriott Bonvoy Bevy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> American Express<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a>, <a data-ccid=\"147\" href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/cards\/MarriottBountiful\" =_blank>Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful\u2122 Card<\/a>, or <a data-ccid=\"4048147\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/MarriottBonvoyBusinessAmericanExpressCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Marriott Bonvoy Business<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> American Express<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a>, plus receive 15 elite night credits each calendar year.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Gold Elite status<\/strong> through <a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-ThePlatinumCardfromAmericanExpress\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">American Express Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> or <a data-ccid=\"4028096\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/TheBusinessPlatinumCardfromAmericanExpressOPEN\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The Business Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> from American Express<\/a> after enrolling for this benefit.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Platinum Elite status<\/strong> through the <a data-ccid=\"4048231\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-MarriottBonvoyBrilliantAmericanExpressCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> American Express<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a>, plus receive 25 elite night credits each calendar year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you hold both a business and personal Marriott co-branded card, you can receive <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/credit-cards\/marriott-bonvoy\/marriott-elite-night-credit\/\" rel=\"noopener\">up to 40 elite night credits each year<\/a>. That boost should get any cardholder well on their way to maintaining and possibly elevating status each year.<\/p>\n<div class=\"compare-cards-wrap compare-count-cards-3 compare-p-american-express\"><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.nextinsure.com\/imaging\/opt\/332ee2cd-5c86-446a-832f-c73f4c9ba451.png\" alt=\"Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card\" width=\"150\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Marriott Bonvoy Boundless<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Credit Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong>\r\nEarn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening, and an additional 1 Free Night Award after spending $4,000 total on eligible purchases within 4 months of account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Credit Card. Redeem your Free Night Awards for a one-night stay at properties with a redemption level up to 50,000 points per night, a total value of 200,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees. 2026 Exclusive Offer: Get up to $100 in statement credits after spending $500 on eligible airline purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-apply-now\" title='Marriott Bonvoy Boundless\u00ae Credit Card' data-ccid=\"4048146\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseMarriottBonvoyBoundlessCard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Apply Now<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$95<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048146\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1993744.10005146&type=3&subid=0=9eb93aa55f0acdf3eef7d2e9c1d0eb26&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>6X points for every $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/li>\r\n<li>3X points for every $1 spent on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases annually on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining<\/li>\r\n<li>2X points on all other eligible purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.nextinsure.com\/imaging\/opt\/78194071-052d-428a-ac7c-204876e29293.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Marriott Bonvoy Bevy\u00ae American Express\u00ae Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Marriott Bonvoy Bevy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> American Express<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong>\r\nEarn 175,000 Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 5\/13\/2026.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-how-apply\" title='Marriott Bonvoy Bevy\u00ae American Express\u00ae Card' data-ccid=\"5048293\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-MarriottBonvoyBevyAmericanExpressCard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">How to Apply<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$250<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"5048293\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/marriott-bonvoy-bevy-card\/26129-10-0\/#offer-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><br>(Terms Apply)<\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>6X points on purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy<\/li>\r\n<li>4X points on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per year at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets<\/li>\r\n<li>2X points on all other eligible purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul> <\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img data-aspectratio=\"150\/95\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/CardArt-MarriottBonvoyBrilliantAmericanExpressCard.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant\u00ae American Express\u00ae Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> American Express<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Offer<\/strong> Earn 200,000 Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 5\/13\/2026.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-how-apply\" title='Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant\u00ae American Express\u00ae Card' data-ccid=\"4048231\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-MarriottBonvoyBrilliantAmericanExpressCard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">How to Apply<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$650<span class=\"compare-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048231\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/marriott-bonvoy-brilliant-card\/26129-10-0#offer-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><br>(Terms Apply)<\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>6X points on purchases at Marriott Properties<\/li>\r\n<li>3X points at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery<\/li>\r\n<li>3X points on  flights booked directly with airlines<\/li>\r\n<li>2X points on all other eligible purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h3 id=\"Elite_Status_Matchb5jL\"><span id=\"Elite_status_challenge\">Elite status challenge<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marriott Bonvoy does not publish a formal status match, but it does offer an <a href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/marriott-status-match\/\">unpublished status challenge<\/a>. Interested members must call Marriott directly at 800-627-7468 to confirm availability and terms.<\/p>\n<p>Challenges typically must be completed within three months in the same calendar year, and only paid stays count toward the requirement.<\/p>\n<p>If I start on January 1, 2027, I have three months to complete the challenge. However, if I were to start the challenge on November 1, 2026, I would need to complete the challenge by the end of December 2026 \u2014 only two months to make it happen.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"RewardsPlus_United_MileagePlus_Partnership\"><span id=\"RewardsPlus_United_MileagePlus_partnership\">RewardsPlus: United MileagePlus partnership<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/travel\/marriott-united-rewardsplus-partnership\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Marriott Bonvoy partners with United MileagePlus<\/a> to allow for reciprocal earning and shared elite benefits. Titanium Elite and Ambassador Elite members can receive United MileagePlus Premier Silver elite status. Those with United Premier Gold status or higher can\u00a0secure Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"Elite_Status_Gifting\"><span id=\"Elite_status_gifting-2\">Elite status gifting<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marriott Ambassador Elites may receive an Annual Choice benefit based on their Bonvoy account activity. These members can gift Silver Elite status upon achieving 50 elite night credits or Gold Elite status upon achieving 75 elite night credits.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"MGM_Rewards_tier_matching\">MGM Rewards tier matching<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/marriott-mgm-partnership\/\">Marriott and MGM have a partnership<\/a> where MGM elites can match to Bonvoy elite status, as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>MGM Rewards Pearl<\/strong>: Match to Bonvoy Silver Elite<\/li>\n<li><strong>MGM Rewards Gold<\/strong>: Match to Bonvoy Gold Elite<\/li>\n<li><strong>MGM Rewards Platinum<\/strong>: Match to Bonvoy Gold Elite<\/li>\n<li><strong>MGM Rewards NOIR<\/strong>: Match to Bonvoy Ambassador Elite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can <a href=\"\/blog\/link\/LinkMarriottMGM\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">link your accounts<\/a> by signing into MGM Rewards and visiting the \u201cMy Rewards\u201d page.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"World_of_Hyatt_Elite_Status\">World of Hyatt Elite Status<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>World of Hyatt remains a favorite among frequent travelers thanks to strong top-tier benefits. While entry-level perks are modest, Globalist status delivers some of the most valuable benefits of any hotel program.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_204529\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-204529 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Grand-Hyatt-Athens-Featured.png\" alt=\"Grand Hyatt Athens\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Grand-Hyatt-Athens-Featured.png 1000w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Grand-Hyatt-Athens-Featured-300x240.png 300w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Grand-Hyatt-Athens-Featured-768x614.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Grand-Hyatt-Athens-Featured-325x260.png 325w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Grand Hyatt Athens. Credit: Tyler Glatt\/AwardWallet<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3 id=\"Credit_Cards\"><span id=\"Credit_cards-4\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Chase is World of Hyatt\u2019s exclusive U.S. credit card issuer, and Hyatt and Chase have indicated plans to further <a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/news\/world-of-hyatt\/chase-partnership-expansion\/\">expand their partnership<\/a> in 2026. While no additional products have been officially announced, future updates could introduce new pathways to elite status.<\/p>\n<p><a data-ccid=\"4048116\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/TheWorldOfHyattCreditCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The World of Hyatt Credit Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048116\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005136&type=3&u1=1e2dedf1057f591c8c5202bcc442ee7e&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>) is one way to fast-track your progress to <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/world-of-hyatt\/\" rel=\"noopener\">World of Hyatt<\/a> elite status. Cardholders automatically receive <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/world-of-hyatt\/hyatt-discoverist\/\" rel=\"noopener\">World of Hyatt Discoverist status<\/a> (the lowest tier). Cardholders also get five elite night credits each year, plus earn two qualifying nights for every $5,000 spent on the card in a calendar year.<\/p>\n<div class=\"qs-card\" data-id=\"4048116\">\n            <div class=\"qs-data\">\n                <div class=\"qs-view\">\n                    <div class=\"qs-cardname\">The World of Hyatt Credit Card<\/div>\n                    <div class=\"qs-image\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.nextinsure.com\/imaging\/opt\/4ba7741f-2b68-45ce-9bc4-e65b9f6c260f.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"The World of Hyatt Credit Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div>\n                    <div class=\"qs-apply\"><a class=\"btn-use qs-apply-now\" title='The World of Hyatt Credit Card' data-ccid=\"4048116\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/TheWorldOfHyattCreditCard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Apply Now<\/a><\/div>\n                    <div class=\"qs-rates\"><span class=\"qs-terms\"><a data-ccid=\"4048116\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005136&type=3&u1=1e2dedf1057f591c8c5202bcc442ee7e&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n                    <div class=\"qs-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong> Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.<\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <div class=\"qs-info\">\n                    <strong class=\"qs-cardname\">The World of Hyatt Credit Card<\/strong>\n                    <div class=\"qs-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong> Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.<\/div>\n                    <div class=\"qs-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee:<\/strong><b>$95<\/b><\/div>\n                    <div class=\"qs-tabs\"><a class=\"qs-more\" href=\"#more\">Show more<\/a><a href=\"\" data-tab=\"wwl\">Why We Like It<\/a><a href=\"\" data-tab=\"hl\">Highlights<\/a><a href=\"\" data-tab=\"er\">Earning Rates<\/a><div class=\"qs-tab-wwl\">Cardholders receive one free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort every year on account renewal, with an additional free night after $15,000 in annual spending\u200b\u200b. The card includes World of Hyatt Discoverist status, providing 5 qualifying night credits towards the next tier status each year, plus 2 additional credits for every $5,000 spent\u200b\u200b. There are no foreign transaction fees\u200b\u200b, and the card also offers comprehensive travel and purchase protections, including baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, trip cancellation\/interruption insurance, purchase protection, and an auto rental collision damage waiver\u200b\u200b.<\/div><div class=\"qs-tab-hl\"><?xml version=\"1.0\" standalone=\"yes\"?>\n<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ??>\n<html><body><ul><li>Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.<\/li><li>Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.<\/li><li>Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort<\/li><li>Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open<\/li><li>Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year<\/li><li>Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card<\/li><li>Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays - 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member<\/li><li>Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships<\/li><li>Member FDIC<\/li><\/ul><\/body><\/html>\n<\/div><div class=\"qs-tab-er\"><ul>\r\n<li>Up to 9X points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4X points per $1 when you use your card at Hyatt hotels & 5X points per $1 you can earn as a World of Hyatt member<\/li>\r\n<li>2X points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airlines tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships<\/li>\r\n<li>1X point per $1 everywhere else<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <a class=\"qs-share\" href=\"\/find-a-card\/WOHCard\/\" title=\"copy\"><svg width=\"12\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><use href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/awardwallet\/public\/builds\/icon\/icon-sprite.svg?v2026-4-14923edb81#share-square\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/use><\/svg><\/a>\n        <\/div>\n<p>If you have a small business, you can apply for the <a data-ccid=\"4048270\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/WorldOfHyattBusinessCreditCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">World of Hyatt Business Credit Card<\/a> to get Discoverist status for yourself and up to five employees. Plus, earn five tier-qualifying night credits for every $10,000 you spend in a calendar year.<\/p>\n<p>Starting mid-2026, you'll be able to spend your way to <a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/hotels\/world-of-hyatt\/hyatt-explorist\/\">World of Hyatt Explorist status<\/a> if you are a cardholder of the <a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphireReserve\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Sapphire Reserve<\/a> or <a data-ccid=\"5048384\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphireReserveBusiness\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Sapphire Reserve Business<\/a>. If you have the personal version, spend $75,000 on your card in a calendar year to earn Explorist, while business cardholders must spend $120,000 a year.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"Status_Match\"><span id=\"Elite_status_match-3\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/blog\/hyatt-american-airlines-partnership\/\" rel=\"noopener\">American Airlines AAdvantage and World of Hyatt<\/a> launched a partnership in 2019 that provides reciprocal benefits for elite members of both programs.<\/p>\n<p>Unfortunately, you can no longer earn Hyatt Globalist status through American Airlines. However, when you earn 100,000 <a href=\"\/airlines\/american-aadvantage\/loyalty-point-rewards-choices\/\">Loyalty Points<\/a>, you'll receive Hyatt Discoverist status. At 175,000 Loyalty Points and 250,000 Loyalty Points, you can choose World of Hyatt Explorist status as a benefit.<\/p>\n<p>If you don't have the highest levels of elite status with either program, all is not lost. This partnership offers <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/news\/hyatt-american-airlines-status-match\/\" rel=\"noopener\">periodic fast-track opportunities for elite members<\/a> to match between programs. The most recently available (now closed) offer allowed AAdvantage elite members to challenge for Explorist or Globalist status by earning just 10 or 20 qualifying nights over a 90-day period.<\/p>\n<p>While this offer closed on October 31, 2025, it's worth keeping an eye out for future iterations.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"Meetings_and_Events\"><span id=\"Meetings_and_events\">Meetings and events<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You\u2019ll earn two elite night credits for every $5,000 spent on qualifying meetings or events, up to $150,000 in annual spend. That cap allows members to earn up to 60 qualifying nights \u2014 the number required for top-tier Globalist status.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Best_Western\">Best Western<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Best Western may not be the most popular hotel loyalty program, but it might be the simplest for earning elite status. With more than 4,300 Best Western Hotels in over 100 countries worldwide, it also has a bigger footprint than you'd expect.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers-4\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Best Western has four tiers of elite status beyond the basic member level:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Gold<\/li>\n<li>Platinum<\/li>\n<li>Diamond<\/li>\n<li>Diamond Select<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You only need five qualifying nights at a Best Western hotel to reach Gold status, but it'll take a little longer to reach top-tier Diamond Select, which requires 25 nights.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_242751\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/321\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-242751 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.18.17.png\" alt=\"Hotel Finial, BW Premier Collection\" width=\"600\" height=\"321\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.18.17.png 1538w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.18.17-750x402.png 750w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.18.17-900x482.png 900w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.18.17-768x411.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.18.17-1536x823.png 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Hotel Finial, BW Premier Collection. Credit: Best Western<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3><span id=\"Credit_cards-5\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Elite status is a perk of being a co-branded cardholder. The no-annual-fee Best Western Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Visa Signature<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card offers complimentary Gold status. For an $89 annual fee, the Best Western Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Premium Visa Signature<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card provides automatic Platinum status.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_match-4\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>By using Best Western's Status Match &#8230; No Catch<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> program, anyone with elite status in another hotel loyalty program can <a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/news\/hotels\/best-western-status-match\/\">request a match<\/a> by email.<\/p>\n<p>Provide Best Western with the following information:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Full Name<\/li>\n<li>Address<\/li>\n<li>Email<\/li>\n<li>Phone number<\/li>\n<li>Best Western Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Member number<\/li>\n<li>Proof of elite status in another hotel program, using a screenshot or a copy of your other program's loyalty card or account statement, which must include your full name<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Best Western will review the submission and match you within its rewards program up to Diamond Select Elite status.<\/p>\n<p>North American members should send their information to: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"mailto:statusmatch@bestwestern.com\" rel=\"noopener\">statusmatch@bestwestern.com<\/a>. Members outside North America should send their information to: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"mailto:bwr.service@bestwestern.com\" rel=\"noopener\">bwr.service@bestwestern.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related: <a href=\"\/hotels\/best-western-elite-status\/\">Best Western Rewards Elite Status Requirements<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Choice_Privileges\">Choice Privileges<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/choice-privileges\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Choice Privileges<\/a> includes 22 different brands with more than 7,400 properties worldwide. This includes the Radisson Hotels Americas brands brought into the program in the summer of 2023.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers-5\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/news\/choice-privileges\/program-changes-2026\/\">Choice Privileges underwent an overhaul in 2026<\/a> and now includes four levels of status:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Gold<\/li>\n<li>Platinum<\/li>\n<li>Diamond<\/li>\n<li>Titanium<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Luckily, there are some quick ways to nab elite status for those looking to take advantage of benefits like late checkout or earning bonus points on upcoming stays.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_241344\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-241344 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Titaniumawardproperty_RadissonBlu_Aruba_cropped.png\" alt=\"Exterior image of Radisson Blu in Aruba\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Titaniumawardproperty_RadissonBlu_Aruba_cropped.png 1000w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Titaniumawardproperty_RadissonBlu_Aruba_cropped-750x600.png 750w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Titaniumawardproperty_RadissonBlu_Aruba_cropped-900x720.png 900w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Titaniumawardproperty_RadissonBlu_Aruba_cropped-768x614.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Titaniumawardproperty_RadissonBlu_Aruba_cropped-325x260.png 325w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Credit: Choice Hotels<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3><span id=\"Credit_cards-6\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Choice Privileges has two credit cards that each provide elite status as a core benefit.<\/p>\n<p>The no-annual-fee <a data-ccid=\"62\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-ChoicePrivilegesMastercard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Choice Privileges<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Mastercard<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> provides complimentary Gold status.<\/p>\n<p>Travelers looking for a higher tier can secure Platinum status with the <a data-ccid=\"49\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-ChoicePrivilegesSelectMastercard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Choice Privileges<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Select Mastercard<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a>, which charges an annual fee of $95. For those who can use the card\u2019s benefits, that fee places it firmly in the \u201calmost free\u201d category.<\/p>\n<p>Both cards offer a fast track path to higher elite status through credit card spending.<\/p>\n<div class=\"compare-cards-wrap compare-count-cards-2 compare-p-wells-fargo\"><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"http:\/\/merchant.linksynergy.com\/fs\/banners\/40602\/40602_45.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Choice Privileges\u00ae Mastercard\u00ae\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Choice Privileges<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Mastercard<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong>\r\nEarn 40,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - enough to redeem for up to 5 reward nights at select Choice Hotels<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> properties. Additional fees may apply.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$0<span class=\"compare-terms\">On Wells Fargo's website<br><a data-ccid=\"62\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsfargo.com\/credit-cards\/choice\/terms\/?FPID=0124CEIXP10LTO&product_code=CC&subproduct_code=CP&sub_channel=AFF&vendor_code=LS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>5x points on stays at participating Choice Hotels<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> properties plus on Choice Privileges point purchases<\/li>\r\n<li>3x points on purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, home improvement stores and on phone plan services<\/li>\r\n<li>1x points on other purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/merchant.linksynergy.com\/fs\/banners\/40602\/40602_47.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Choice Privileges\u00ae Select Mastercard\u00ae\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Choice Privileges<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Select Mastercard<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong>\r\nEarn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $3,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - enough to redeem for up to 7 reward nights at select Choice Hotels<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> properties. Additional fees may apply.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$95<span class=\"compare-terms\">On Wells Fargo's website<br><a data-ccid=\"49\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsfargo.com\/credit-cards\/choice-select\/terms\/?FPID=0123CBIXP10000&product_code=CC&subproduct_code=CE&sub_channel=AFF&vendor_code=LS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a><\/span><\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--5\"><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><p>Excellent, Good<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>10x points on stays at participating Choice Hotels<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> properties plus on Choice Privileges point purchases<\/li>\r\n<li>5x points on purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, home improvement stores, and on phone plan services<\/li>\r\n<li>1x points on other purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_match-5\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you have elite status with another hotel chain, it's simple to secure a status match with Choice Privileges. Simply create a free Choice Privileges member account. Once you have a member number, submit that along with your full name and proof of elite status with another hotel program <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.choicehotels.com\/choice-privileges\/membership-levels\/status-match\" rel=\"noopener\">via its online form or appropriate email<\/a> (depending on your country of residence).<\/p>\n<p>Status matches approved between January and June are valid for the remainder of the calendar year. Matches approved between July and December are valid for the rest of the current year and the entire following year.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Leading_Hotels_of_the_World_Leaders_Club\">Leading Hotels of the World Leaders Club<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/hotels\/leading-hotels-of-the-world\/\">Leading Hotels of the World<\/a> may not be the first place you look for your hotel stay, but it should be on your radar. It's a collection of independent hotels, many of which are upscale or luxury properties. Notable hotels include Capella Bangkok (voted the 3rd best hotel in the world), Royal Mansour Marrakech (voted the best hotel in Africa), and Chabl\u00e9 Yucat\u00e1n (voted the best hotel in North America).<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers-6\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Leaders Club has just one elite tier above the base level:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/hotels\/leaders-club-sterling-status\/\"><strong>Leaders Club Sterling Elite<\/strong><\/a>: Benefits include upgrade priority, daily continental breakfast for two, prearrival upgrades, and a 5% stay bonus. While Sterling status typically requires $5,000 in annual spend, cardholders can earn it automatically.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure id=\"attachment_235095\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/443\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-235095 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Wymara-Villas-LHW.png\" alt=\"Aerial view of the Wymara Resort and Villas\" width=\"600\" height=\"443\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Wymara-Villas-LHW.png 1692w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Wymara-Villas-LHW-300x221.png 300w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Wymara-Villas-LHW-1024x755.png 1024w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Wymara-Villas-LHW-768x566.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Wymara-Villas-LHW-1536x1133.png 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Wymara Resort and Villas. Credit: Leading Hotels of the World<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3><span id=\"Credit_cards-7\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>As part of the <a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/news\/amex-membership-rewards\/amex-platinum-business-platinum-overhaul\/\">refresh of the American Express Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> in 2025<\/a>, cardholders can now enjoy complimentary Sterling status. The <a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-ThePlatinumCardfromAmericanExpress\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> is the only credit card that grants automatic Leaders Club elite status. If you enjoy staying at luxury hotels, it can pay off to have this card in your wallet.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/hotels\/buy-leaders-club-points\/\">Buy Leading Hotels of the World Leaders Club Points<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"World_of_Hyatt_Elite_Status_for_Free_or_Almost_Free\"><span id=\"Sonesta_Travel_Pass\">Sonesta Travel Pass<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/sonesta-travel-pass\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Sonesta Travel Pass<\/a> is an often-unheralded program, but its footprint has grown significantly in recent years. Plus, attaining elite status for free in this program is relatively simple.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers-7\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Sonesta has three tiers to its elite status program:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Silver<\/li>\n<li>Gold<\/li>\n<li>Platinum<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>All three tiers receive perks like an exclusive reservations line, early check-in and late checkout, a welcome gift, and complimentary room upgrades. Gold and Platinum members receive exclusive perks like a complimentary daily continental breakfast and preferred self-parking.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_130809\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-130809 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/The-Royal-Sonesta-Portland-Downtown-entrance.jpeg\" alt=\"The Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown entrance\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/The-Royal-Sonesta-Portland-Downtown-entrance.jpeg 1000w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/The-Royal-Sonesta-Portland-Downtown-entrance-300x240.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/The-Royal-Sonesta-Portland-Downtown-entrance-768x614.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/The-Royal-Sonesta-Portland-Downtown-entrance-325x260.jpeg 325w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>The Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown. Credit: Sonesta<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3><span id=\"Credit_cards-8\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <strong>Sonesta World Mastercard<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/strong> previously offered automatic Gold status, but the card is being discontinued on February 13, 2026. Existing cardholders are expected to be converted to the Bank of America<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card, which does not include Sonesta elite status benefits.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_match-6\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Sonesta Travel Pass offers a generous status match from multiple programs. You can match to Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum status, depending on what status you hold in another program. Simply email travelpass@sonesta.com with your Travel Pass membership number and proof of status in another hotel program.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Wyndham_Rewards\">Wyndham Rewards<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/wyndham-rewards\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Wyndham Rewards<\/a> is one of the largest hotel loyalty programs worldwide, covering more than 9,100 hotels across 95 countries. Its partnership with Caesars Rewards adds additional value for travelers who use both programs.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers-8\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Wyndham offers three elite tiers, each with multiple pathways to earning status quickly:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Gold<\/li>\n<li>Platinum<\/li>\n<li>Diamond<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure id=\"attachment_202072\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-202072 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Wyndham-Clearwater-Featured.png\" alt=\"Club Wyndham Clearwater Beach\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Wyndham-Clearwater-Featured.png 1000w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Wyndham-Clearwater-Featured-300x240.png 300w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Wyndham-Clearwater-Featured-768x614.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Wyndham-Clearwater-Featured-325x260.png 325w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Club Wyndham Clearwater Beach. Credit: Wyndham<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3 id=\"Credit_Cards\"><span id=\"Credit_cards-9\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Wyndham Rewards offers three co-branded credit cards that include automatic elite status:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The no-annual-fee <a data-ccid=\"69\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/WyndhamRewardsVisaCardNoAnnualFee\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Wyndham Rewards Earner<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a> provides holders with Gold-level elite status automatically.<\/li>\n<li>For those looking for Platinum status, the <a data-ccid=\"60\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/WyndhamRewardsVisaCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Wyndham Rewards Earner<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Plus Card<\/a> offers it while charging a $75 annual fee.<\/li>\n<li>Diamond level status comes with the <a data-ccid=\"136\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/WyndhamRewardsEarnerBusinessCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Wyndham Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Earner\u2120 Business Card<\/a>. With an annual fee of only $95, that's a pretty efficient route to top-tier status.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"compare-cards-wrap compare-count-cards-3 compare-p-barclays\"><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img data-aspectratio=\"150\/100\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/CardArt-WyndhamRewardsEarnerCard.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Wyndham Rewards Earner\u00ae Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Wyndham Rewards Earner<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong> Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days, plus 30,000 bonus points after spending $500 at Hotels by Wyndham in the first 180 days.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"qs-how-apply\" data-ccid=\"69\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/WyndhamRewardsVisaCardNoAnnualFee\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">How to Apply<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$0<\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--0\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>5X points on Hotels by Wyndham and gas purchases<\/li>\r\n<li>2X points on eligible dining and grocery purchases (excluding Target<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> and Walmart<sup>\u00ae<\/sup>)\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>1 point per dollar on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham timeshare down payments)<\/li>\r\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img data-aspectratio=\"150\/99\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/CardArt-WyndhamRewardsEarnerPlusCard.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Wyndham Rewards Earner\u00ae Plus Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Wyndham Rewards Earner<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Plus Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong> Earn 45,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days, plus 30,000 bonus points after spending $500 at Hotels by Wyndham in the first 180 days.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"qs-how-apply\" data-ccid=\"60\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/WyndhamRewardsVisaCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">How to Apply<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$75<\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--0\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>6X points on Hotels by Wyndham and gas purchases<\/li>\r\n<li>4X points on eligible dining and grocery purchases (excluding Target<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> and Walmart<sup>\u00ae<\/sup>)\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>1 point per dollar on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham timeshare down payments)<\/li>\r\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-card\"><div class=\"compare-pre\"><div class=\"compare-image\"><div><img data-aspectratio=\"150\/94\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/CardArt-WyndhamRewardsEarnerBusinessCard.png\" width=\"150\" alt=\"Wyndham Rewards\u00ae Earner\u2120 Business Card\" \/ class=\"lazyload\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-name\">Wyndham Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Earner\u2120 Business Card<\/div><div class=\"compare-offer\"><strong>Welcome Bonus<\/strong> Earn 45,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 90 days.<\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-apply\"><a class=\"qs-how-apply\" data-ccid=\"136\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/WyndhamRewardsEarnerBusinessCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">How to Apply<\/a><\/div><div class=\"compare-fee-score\"><div class=\"compare-fee\"><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><p>$95<\/p><\/div><div class=\"compare-rating compare-rating--0\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"compare-earning\"><ul>\r\n<li>8X points on Hotels by Wyndham and gas purchases<\/li>\r\n<li>5X points on marketing, advertising, and utility purchases\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>1X on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham timeshare down payments)<\/li><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h3 id=\"Credit_Cards\"><span id=\"Elite_status_match-7\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>We noted earlier that Wyndham Rewards and Caesars have a status-matching relationship. In addition to this, Wyndham regularly offers status matching with a host of other hotel loyalty programs, as you can see in the chart below.<\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-669\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-669 tablepress-responsive\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1 odd\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Hotel Loyalty Program\t<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Hotel Loyalty Program Status<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Awarded Wyndham Rewards Member Level (the \u201cAwarded Member Level\u201d)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Marriott Bonvoy<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Rewards Member<br \/>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GOLD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Silver Elite<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">PLATINUM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Gold Elite<br \/>\nPlatinum Elite<br \/>\nTitanium Elite<br \/>\nAmbassador Elite<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">DIAMOND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Hilton Honors<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Member<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GOLD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Silver<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">PLATINUM<br \/>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Gold<br \/>\nDiamond<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">DIAMOND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Choice Privileges<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Member<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GOLD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Gold<br \/>\nPlatinum<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">PLATINUM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Diamond<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">DIAMOND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Best Western Rewards<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Blue<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GOLD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Gold<br \/>\nPlatinum<br \/>\nDiamond<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">PLATINUM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Diamond Select<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">DIAMOND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-14 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">World of Hyatt<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Member<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GOLD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-15 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Discoverist<br \/>\nExplorist<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">PLATINUM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-16 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Globalist<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">DIAMOND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-17 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">IHG One Rewards\t<br \/>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Club Member\t<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GOLD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-18 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Silver Elite<br \/>\nGold Elite<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">PLATINUM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-19 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Platinum Elite<br \/>\nDiamond Elite<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">DIAMOND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-20 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Radisson Rewards<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Club<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GOLD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-21 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Premium<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">PLATINUM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-22 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">VIP<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">DIAMOND<br \/>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-23 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Omni Select Guest<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Gold<br \/>\n<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GOLD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-24 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Platinum<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">PLATINUM<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-25 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Black<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">DIAMOND<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<p>When status matching is available, you can submit a request through their Wyndham Rewards account.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_gifting-3\">Elite status gifting<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Wyndham Diamond members can gift one Gold-level membership each year.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Caesars_Resorts\">Caesars Resorts<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Love Las Vegas? Then Caesars Resorts might be the loyalty program for you. The program includes more than 50 properties worldwide and offers multiple ways to earn and use elite status.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Elite_status_tiers-9\">Elite status tiers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Caesars Rewards has five tiers above entry-level Gold:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Platinum<\/li>\n<li>Diamond<\/li>\n<li>Diamond Plus<\/li>\n<li>Diamond Elite<\/li>\n<li>Seven Stars<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Seven Stars status is associated with earning 150,000 Tier Credits and is extended by invitation, but the investment can be worth it. Status includes things like an annual Retreat with airfare (up to $1,200), round-trip airport transportation, and a $500 folio credit (plus up to four complimentary nights, depending on the offer terms).<\/p>\n<p>Although you'll struggle to reach top-tier status through credit card spending, you can easily reach mid-tier status by being a cardholder.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_242759\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/260\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-242759 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.32.15.png\" alt=\"Caesars Palace Las Vegas\" width=\"600\" height=\"260\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.32.15.png 2184w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.32.15-750x325.png 750w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.32.15-900x390.png 900w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.32.15-768x333.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.32.15-1536x665.png 1536w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Screenshot-2026-01-08-at-17.32.15-2048x887.png 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Caesars Palace. Credit: Caesars<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3><span id=\"Credit_cards-10\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>New cardholders of the <a href=\"\/credit-cards\/hotels\/caesars-rewards-visa\/\">Caesars Rewards Visa Signature<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> or the <a href=\"\/credit-cards\/hotels\/caesars-rewards-prestige-card\/\"><b>Caesars Rewards Prestige Visa Signature<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/b><\/a>\u00a0can be upgraded to Platinum status after using your card within the first 90 days of approval. You'll keep the status for the remainder of the calendar year, so you'll want to time your card application wisely if you want Platinum status for as long as possible.<\/p>\n<p>Both cards offer 2,500 Tier Credits after spending $5,000 in purchases in a calendar year. That gets you halfway to Platinum status, which requires 5,000 Tier Credits.<\/p>\n<p>If you are a cardholder of the <b>Caesars Rewards Prestige Visa Signature<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/b>, you can receive another 2,500 Tier Credits after spending $10,000 in a calendar year, and another 15,000 Tier Credits once you reach $50,000 in spending. That would easily get you to Diamond status, but it requires dedicating a lot of spending on a modestly rewarding card.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"Elite_Status_Match\"><span id=\"Elite_status_match-8\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Caesars also has a reciprocal status match partnership with Wyndham Rewards. By linking your Wyndham Rewards and Caesars Rewards accounts, you can match elite status between the two programs.<\/p>\n<p>Wyndham status earned solely through credit cards may not qualify for matching; Caesars requires that status be earned through qualifying activity.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"MGM_Rewards\">MGM Rewards<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>While the MGM name may bring to mind the Vegas Strip, MGM Resorts has 30-plus properties around the world, and elite membership in its rewards program can make a stay at any of them more enjoyable.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_179487\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-179487 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/MGM-Las-Vegas-Yoav-Aziz-Featured-Unsplash.png\" alt=\"Sign for the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/MGM-Las-Vegas-Yoav-Aziz-Featured-Unsplash.png 1000w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/MGM-Las-Vegas-Yoav-Aziz-Featured-Unsplash-300x240.png 300w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/MGM-Las-Vegas-Yoav-Aziz-Featured-Unsplash-768x614.png 768w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/MGM-Las-Vegas-Yoav-Aziz-Featured-Unsplash-325x260.png 325w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Credit: Yoav Aziz\/Unsplash<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<p>MGM has five status tiers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Sapphire<\/li>\n<li>Pearl<\/li>\n<li>Gold<\/li>\n<li>Platinum<\/li>\n<li>NOIR (invitation-only)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"Credit_CardsRSeh\"><span id=\"Credit_cards-11\">Credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The MGM Rewards\u2122 World Elite Mastercard<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>has no annual fee and offers automatic Pearl status. This is only one rung up the elite ladder, but it's a start. Pearl members will enjoy perks such as free self-parking, a 10% discount at retail shops, and bonus slot dollars, among other benefits.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"Elite_Status_MatchUsrD\"><span id=\"Elite_status_match-9\">Elite status match<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Unfortunately, although you can use your MGM status to match into Marriott Bonvoy, the benefits don't work the other way around. However, you can often find some <a href=\"\/hotels\/mgm-status-match\/\">MGM status match opportunities<\/a>, especially if you hold elite status with a competitor.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><span id=\"Final_Thoughts\">Final Thoughts<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Elite status makes hotel stays more enjoyable. You can receive early check-in, late checkout, upgraded rooms, complimentary food and drinks, and more. Earning status without being a road warrior can make these benefits seem even sweeter.<\/p>\n<p>Many (but not all) of the credit cards mentioned above have an annual fee, so they are not technically free. However, take advantage of the airline, travel, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/travel\/tsa-precheck\/\" rel=\"noopener\">TSA PreCheck credits,<\/a> lounge access, free anniversary nights, and other benefits, and these cards can more than pay for themselves year after year.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s also worth checking <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/statusmatcher.com\/hotels\" rel=\"noopener\">StatusMatcher.com<\/a> periodically. Many status match opportunities aren\u2019t widely advertised, and the site tracks real-world match success rates and application tips.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The traditional route to elite status, earning the base number of points or night credits needed for each elite tier within a hotel chain, requires a substantial investment of time and money. Thankfully, there are several options that will allow you to get hotel elite status for free \u2014 or nearly free.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":52,"featured_media":129339,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_wpscppro_dont_share_socialmedia":null,"_wpscppro_custom_social_share_image":0,"_facebook_share_type":"default","_twitter_share_type":"default","_linkedin_share_type":"default","_pinterest_share_type":"default","_linkedin_share_type_page":"","_instagram_share_type":"default","_medium_share_type":"default","_threads_share_type":"","_google_business_share_type":"","_selected_social_profile":[],"_wpsp_enable_custom_social_template":false,"_wpsp_social_scheduling":{"enabled":false,"datetime":null,"platforms":[],"status":"template_only","dateOption":"today","timeOption":"now","customDays":"","customHours":"","customDate":"","customTime":"","schedulingType":"absolute"},"_wpsp_active_default_template":true},"categories":[12054],"tags":[12520,12622,12698,12669,12700,12699,12701],"coauthors":[36389,36518],"class_list":["post-8955","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tips","tag-card-benefits","tag-elite-status","tag-hilton-honors","tag-hotels","tag-ihg-one-rewards","tag-marriott-bonvoy","tag-world-of-hyatt"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<title>How To Get Hotel Elite Status for Free (or Almost Free)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"From credit card perks to status matching &amp; 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