In this type of “is it worth it” discussion, opinions are highly biased, by those on both sides who want to “justify” their decision(s). Also seems to be a fair amount of “sour grapes”* attitude on the part of those who do not or no longer covet status.
Originally Posted by
smilee
When evaluating hotel and airline elite status, it’s important to compare the equivalent cash expenditures with the benefits provided by the status. Determining whether you would actually pay for a flight or hotel stay at the advertised price helps assess the true value of redeemed points or upgrades….
Agreed.
Originally Posted by
smilee
… During several hotel stays with mid-tier elite status, I found that politely asking at the front desk often resulted in a nice room away from the elevator or even a reasonably priced suite upgrade. ….
Good point, squeaky wheel gets the grease, always ask, worst they can do is say “no”, give then an opportunity to say “yes”.
Originally Posted by
smilee
… In terms of air travel, frequent flyer programs today offer weaker status benefits compared to the past. ….
Good point. Although one specific aspect of status, which often gets lost in the discussion and/or taken for granted**, is
now probably stronger than in the past. Free checked bags. Might not be a concern (and thus taken for granted) for those who never check a bag but for some people it could be far more beneficial now that many airlines have significantly raised checked bag fees.
Personally, free checked bags saves me $xxx-$xxxx every year in bag fees for 5-7 ski trips between NYC and DEN/SLC/JAC/YVR/EGE when I always check a large suitcase (with my ski boots and helmet cushioned inside by my clothing) and a ski bag. Families might also be more appreciative of free checked bags as savings might increase arithmetically.
(* “Dictionary “sour grapes” refers to an attitude in which someone adopts a negative attitude to something because they cannot have it themselves.”)
(** “AI Overview … "Taken for granted" is an idiom that means to fail to properly appreciate or notice someone or something that should be valued.”)