Starting your vacation with a hotel room upgrade can make all the difference in setting the tone for your trip. While hotels may occasionally upgrade rooms for special occasions, travelers with elite status in loyalty programs are far more likely to enjoy this perk. Fortunately, several travel rewards cards grant elite status as a built-in benefit, making room upgrades more accessible than ever. Here are five top travel cards that provide these advantages, helping you elevate your travel experience.
1. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card offers complimentary Gold Status in the Hilton Honors loyalty program. This tier, one of Hilton’s highest, provides access to room upgrades when available. With a $150 annual fee, this card strikes a balance between affordability and value, especially for frequent Hilton guests.
In addition to room upgrades, the card features a limited-time welcome offer: 165,000 bonus points and a Free Night Reward for spending $3,000 in the first six months. Travelers planning regular stays at Hilton properties will find this card a valuable addition to their wallet.
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
This card stands out by offering elite status with two hotel chains: Marriott Bonvoy™ and Hilton Honors. Cardholders gain Marriott Bonvoy™ Gold Elite Status and Hilton Honors Gold Status, both of which include the possibility of space-available room upgrades.
Although the Platinum Card comes with a steep $695 annual fee, it compensates with a wealth of travel perks. These include access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, making it a premium choice for travelers who value luxury and convenience.
3. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
As the most luxurious option in Marriott’s lineup, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card offers Platinum Elite Status. This status grants access to enhanced room upgrades, including suites when available, allowing for a significantly improved hotel experience.
While the $650 annual fee is substantial, frequent Marriott guests can justify the cost with benefits like an annual Free Night Award and a $300 dining credit. For those who prioritize comfort and luxury during their stays, this card delivers exceptional value.
4. IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a cost-effective option with a $99 annual fee. It provides complimentary Platinum Elite Status in the IHG loyalty program, which includes eligibility for room upgrades, subject to availability.
Additionally, cardholders receive a free night every account anniversary, redeemable at properties requiring up to 40,000 points. The free night alone often exceeds the card’s annual fee in value, making this a budget-friendly option for travelers who enjoy IHG properties.
5. World of Hyatt Credit Card
The World of Hyatt Credit Card is another affordable choice, with a $95 annual fee. While its complimentary Discoverist status doesn’t guarantee room upgrades, it offers preferred rooms within the type you booked. Cardholders can earn additional qualifying night credits by spending on the card, allowing them to work toward higher tiers like Explorist or Globalist, which include upgrade benefits.
For travelers loyal to Hyatt, this card offers a straightforward path to better accommodations over time, rewarding both loyalty and card usage.
Elevate Your Travel with the Right Card
Travel rewards cards offer more than just points—they open the door to premium travel experiences. Whether it’s Hilton’s Gold Status, Marriott’s Platinum Elite perks, or IHG’s cost-effective upgrades, these cards cater to a range of travelers and budgets. Selecting the right card can enhance your vacation, providing you with the opportunity for better rooms and memorable stays. For frequent travelers, these cards can transform the way you travel, making every trip feel like a first-class experience.
