2026 Elite Status Changes and Ways to Earn Status and Nights More Easily

Learn what 2026 status program changes mean for perks like upgrades, rebooking help, and lounges.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French talk through the latest elite status updates to help you decide when they’re worth chasing. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the U.K.’s electronic travel authorization (ETA) enforcement starting Feb. 25, 2026, a Hawaiian Airlines credit card giveaway offering chances to win 1 million points, Disney’s leadership change and new earnings highlights, and signs that luxury travel demand may be softening in 2026.

Then, joined by fellow travel Nerd Benjamin Din, they discuss what’s changing for airline and hotel elite status in 2026, including how status is increasingly tied to spending and credit cards, when a status match challenge can be a shortcut, and how to choose a program based on your home airport and travel patterns. They also dig into updates across major programs including Southwest, American, United, and JetBlue, in addition to hotel shifts at Hilton, Hyatt, and Choice. Plus: what it really takes to earn United’s Million Miler milestone, including how lifetime status can change the way you book flights and hotels.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

• 5 Things to Know About the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard 

• Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card 

• American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Credits 

• Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price 

• World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost 

• United Club Infinite Review: $695 Fee May Still Lure Lounge Lovers 

• IHG One Rewards Premier Review: Free Nights on a Silver Platter 

• Best Airline Credit Cards of February 2026

• Best Hotel Credit Cards of February 2026 

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Airline Credit Cards That Offer Free Checked Bags

• Which Credit Card Is Best for International Award Travel?

• The 5 Best Credit Cards with Hotel Status

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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