5 Exclusive Benefits of Hotel Elite Status

Most hotel loyalty programs have elite status tiers. If you're a frequent guest, you could earn elite status and be entitled to special perks. Many of these hotels also offer their own travel rewards cards that include automatic elite status as a benefit.

Whether you get it through hotel stays or a hotel credit card, elite status can significantly improve your travel experience. The benefits vary depending on the hotel and which of its status tiers you're in, but here's a look at what you could get.

1. Complimentary upgrades

Who doesn't dream of getting upgraded at a hotel? It's a lot more likely if you have elite status. Guests in the highest status tiers are typically eligible for complimentary upgrades when space is available.

For a firsthand example, I'm in the Hilton Honors Diamond tier. It's Hilton's highest tier, and I got it as a benefit through one of my Hilton credit cards. Since I've had it, I've gotten upgraded on over half my stays, often to rooms that are considerably nicer than what I'd booked.

2. Free breakfast

Hotel breakfasts often cost extra, and they can be expensive. At upscale properties, it's not uncommon to see prices of $35 to $40 per person, per day. If you and your partner stay five days, you could be looking at an additional $350 to $400.

Free breakfast is usually a perk of hotel elite status, at least in the higher status tiers. It's convenient, and it helps you spend less on meals during your trip.

3. Bonus points on bookings

By joining a hotel's loyalty program, you can earn points on your bookings. But elite status typically includes a bonus on the number of points you earn, with the bonus amount getting larger with each status tier.

For example, Hilton Honors members earn 10 points per $1 on bookings. Its elite status tiers offer the following bonus amounts:

• Silver: 20% points bonus (12 points per $1)
• Gold: 80% points bonus (18 points per $1)
• Diamond: 100% points bonus (20 points per $1)

Since elite status helps you earn points more quickly, it takes less time to have enough points for a free stay. Hotel credit cards are another way to speed up the process. With one of these cards, you can also earn points on your everyday purchases.

4. Guaranteed availability

When a hotel is fully booked, you might assume there's no way to get a room. With elite status, you could still have a chance.

Many hotels have 48-hour guaranteed availability for elite status guests. If you book at least 48 hours in advance, you're guaranteed a room. Some restrictions apply, but this benefit comes in handy when you're booking at the last minute or going to a popular destination.

5. A welcome gift

To top it off, certain hotel chains include a welcome gift if you have elite status. The gift itself varies depending on the hotel. Common examples include points, a food and beverage credit, or an amenity.

Hotel elite status makes your stay more enjoyable, and it can save you money. If you travel often and have a hotel chain you like, look into its status requirements. Don't forget to check out the hotel's credit card options, as well. The right card could get you automatic elite status, without even needing to complete any stays first.