Earned hotel chain satus does almost nothing for me, so I will only consider staying a few extra nights if my natural travel plans leave me just short of attaining a meaningful status level (e.g. Hyatt Diamond, R-C Gold/Plat, SPG Plat).

Recently I don't stay nearly enough at such chains for it to make any difference. I simply book my hotel of choice, either directly or through a preferred partner agent.

I have joined Leaders Club on and off in the past, and would pay for Unlimited if I thought I could get value out of confirmed upgrades and other benefits, such as free airport transfers.

On the other hand, I think earned status can make a lot of sense for business travelers whose companies have them staying with hotel chains like Starwood or Hyatt.