Is Elite Status Actually Worth It? We Asked Our Whole Team.

Elite status sounds glamorous until you do the math. In this episode, Chris and Katie dig into whether airline and hotel elite status is actually worth chasing in 2026, pulling in honest and often conflicting takes from across the Upgraded Points team.

Lori makes the case for low-level Oneworld status abroad. Ryan thinks most airline status is overrated. Ben says it depends on your situation. Jamie says status isn't worth it until it really is.

Plus, a giveaway winner shares how a Hilton Be My Guest certificate landed her a room at the newly renovated Waldorf Astoria New York with a cash value of $4,200 for one night.

(00:00) - The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 67

(01:23) - Chris Broke a Millennial Stereotype

(03:59) - Hotel Distil in Louisville

(07:20) - 1-Year-Anniversary Giveaway Winner

(10:51) - Is Airline Elite Status Worth It?

(18:07) - Is Hotel Elite Status Worth It?

(27:30) - Listener Question

UP Team’s Mid-Year Elite Status Update:

https://upgradedpoints.com/news/up-team-elite-status-updates-2026/