Originally Posted by
jaredd2000
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I have to book myself (award flight) and my spouse ($) in separate bookings, and because of this my status perks (upgrades, priority baggage, etc.) will only be available to me for the flight rather than both of us. In order for us both to get the perks, ...
Some perks require a common PNR and some don't
Bags -- off-pnr companion does not get any benefit but as an 1K you can 3 (on UA) and the companion depending on destination may get 1 or more -- but 3 bags for a couple can cover many trips.
E+ -- you can guest your companion, just requires a call.
Check-in, Security and Boarding -- you can guest your companion
CPU -- you may be able to add your companion at the gate YMMV, you being on award ticket might be eligible for CPU if you have the right credit cards
The thread's wiki covers some other benefits. Overall it may not be as bad as your feared.
One issue is irrops handling, you will be handled with higher priority but a word to the GA or UA phone agents will get your companion similarly treated