I also regularly turn down hotel suites when traveling alone. Especially at hotels that know me and usually offer a suite as a matter of course (LAX Four Points as a main example).

I usually say something like, "Give it to someone else this time that might really appreciate it.

I think the front desk staff appreciate the gesture and handing the suite back to them, and this could actually help on those occasions when I really want one.

But to answer the question on the title of this thread, they are only important when traveling with my ladyfriend.

I'm the airline whore. She's the hotel whore.