SPG Platinum status has long been an industry-leader for hotel loyalty. The program offers a number of benefits that are unmatched by its competition, like airline benefits, points transfers, and more.
In this article, I’ll give you a look at whether or not it’s worth chasing SPG Platinum status in 2018. I’ve split the article into pros and cons, giving you a clear picture of all of the status’ benefits.
Do note, however, that this list isn’t definitive. Status is only worth it if you use the benefits on a regular basis, so keep your travel plans in mind before you chase SPG Platinum.
Why SPG Platinum Is Worth It
There are many reasons to love SPG Platinum status. Here’s a quick look at why SPG Platinum status may be worth it for you.
Points Transfer Points 1:1 To Airline Partners and Amtrak
SPG points are flexible. They transfer 1:1 to all major airline programs including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and even Avianca Lifemiles. Even better, you get a 5,000 point transfer bonus when transferring 20,000 miles or more to the airline program of your choice. This flexibility can come in handy when you need to top-up an obscure mileage account.
This feature is available to all SPG members, Platinum or not. However, it’s listed as a benefit here because SPG Platinums are more likely to earn a hefty amount of SPG points annually. Being able to transfer these miles to any airline partner is a benefit unmatched by other hotels, and boosts the value of SPG points.
Benefits On Delta, Emirates, and China Eastern
SPG Platinum status gives you benefits on three airlines: Delta, Emirates, and China Eastern. The Delta benefits are most intriguing though: SPG Platinum members are eligible for complimentary upgrades on domestic flights, preferred seating, priority boarding, and free checked bags. This means that SPG Platinum includes something similar to Delta Silver status. On top of this, SPG Platinums earn 1 Starpoint per dollar spent on Delta flights.
On Emirates, SPG Platinums earn 1 SPG point per dollar spent on Emirates flights. They also get complimentary priority boarding, priority check-in, and complimentary e-gate access. SPG Platinums flying on China Eastern earn 1 bonus Starpoint for every 4 ‘Eastern Miles Points’ earned on China Eastern flights and receive priority check-in, priority boarding, preferred luggage, free excess-luggage allowance, and access to the China Eastern business-class lounge. Not too shabby!
Room Upgrades
SPG Platinum members are eligible for room upgrades up to a Standard Suite at check-in. Note that this is subject to availability.
Increased Points Earning
SPG Platinum members earn 3 Starpoints per dollar spent at SPG hotels. After 75 nights, this is further increased to 4 Starpoints per dollar spent. Depending on how often you stay, these bonus points can add up quickly.
Complimentary Health-Club, Club-Level, and Executive-Level Access
SPG Platinum members get complimentary access to hotel health clubs and access to Club and Executive level access. This means free food and drink and a quiet place to work when staying at hotels with a Club.
Welcome Gifts
All SPG Gold and Platinum members receive a welcome gift upon arrival at any SPG hotels. Platinum members have the choice of bonus SPG points, continental breakfast, or a “local amenity”.
Easy To Qualify
SPG Platinum requires just 25 stays or 50 nights to qualify. This is under half of what is required for Hyatt Globalist and other hotel status programs.
Why SPG Platinum Isn’t Worth It
SPG Platinum isn’t perfect though. Here are a few things to look out for when considering SPG Platinum status.
No Suite Certificates at 50 Nights
SPG Platinum doesn’t offer suite upgrade certificates until you reach 50 nights. Suite upgrade certificates are offered as a part of a selection of Nights Benefits that offered to Platinum members who reach 50 nights.
Potential Changes With The Marriott Merger
Marriott acquired Starwood in 2016. Since then, there has been talk of the companies combining their rewards programs sometime in 2018. Though nothing has been confirmed, we’re worried that the merger may devalue SPG points and reduce SPG Platinum benefits later in the year.
Is SPG Platinum Worth It for You?
And there you have it: the pros and cons of SPG Platinum status. While the status isn’t for everyone, people that frequently stay at SPG hotels will no doubt reap the full value of these benefits.
Are you an SPG elite? Let us know your thoughts on SPG Platinum in the comments.
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