There are few programs where having status is great — complimentary breakfast, lounge access, upgrades, etc. Unfortunately IHG is not one of them! Regardless of your status in the program, even top top top tier status members, are not guaranteed any of those benefits! But having status in your back pocket, just in case, is always a good idea, especially if it is free and easy to earn! While the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card will give you automatic Platinum status, there is an opportunity to earn their highest status — Spire Elite.
Blog PointsNerd is reporting that there is a 90 day free trial for IHG Spire Elite status. Although, the terms states that it is for corporate travel, so it might be specific for certain companion. Thus far, my status has not yet been updated to reflect the change, so I am not yet sure if it will work for everyone, or just those with a partner companies email address. Registering was easy, so there is no reason to try! This promotion goes through October 31, 2018.
Assuming you are eligible for the promotion, you then have the opportunity to keep your upgraded status if you hit these minimum number of stays within the 90 day timeframe:
- Spire Elite status: 10 nights
- Platinum status: 5 nights
As I mentioned above, the benefits aren’t great, but having a minimum of Platinum status is recommended. While the in-hotel benefits might not provide you with much value, these are two reasons why having status is important:
- Your IHG points will never expire. That means if you have Platinum or Spire status you’ll never have to worry about keeping your account active.
- You’ll save on gas at Shell gas stations. IHG has partnered with Shell Gas Station’s Fuel Rewards program where you can save money when filling up your tank at a Shell gas station. While all IHG members can save 5 cents per gallon, if you have Platinum status you’ll actually save 6 cents per gallon! You can sign up for a Fuel Rewards account and then link your IHG and Fuel Rewards account. Learn more about saving money on Shell gas with IHG.
Feel free to report below with your success!
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