This is (IMO) the best way to handle it. Do a little research on locations of where your most frequent travel will be. Then figure out what rewards plans work for you (IE, will you be having multiple "stays" or "nights"; as for airlines I would recommend any major program over Frontier, especially if you want long haul rewards later)

Also if your travel plans are going to increase very quickly early next year, you should definitely look to see if there are any "challenges" you can do to achieve status faster. This will allow you to get benefits sooner, and more points as well.

Finally, remember that you’re never locked into any decision, if you choose a program then go to your most frequent travel location and find that the hotel or airline just doesn't work for you. Change it. Just make sure you check that out before you sign up for the credit card and start spending on it.

Good Luck.

ps - Never Ever let people give you crap for your impending point gathering obsession. Remember that there are thousand's here on FT that are way more addicted than you!