Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Airline Elite Status Programs

Top 5 Underrated Airline Elite Status Perks You Are Missing Out On

There's been a lot of debate in the airline industry and travel rewards credit card subculture about whether it's still worth trying to get elite status with airlines. Your mileage may vary based on how often you fly and which airlines you prefer, and some frequent flyers might swear by the benefits of their favorite airline's elite status program.

1. Free automatic gate-checked bag

With a gate-checked bag, you drop off your bag at the gate, the gate agent gives you a sticker with a barcode, and then you pick up your bag as soon as you step off the plane after landing.

2. Free row of economy-class seats on underbooked flights

Sometimes the best flight experiences have been the cheapest -- like having an entire row to yourself on a nearly empty flight. It's heavenly, feels better than business class, and at a fraction of the price!

3. Truly good wifi on the plane

Elite status should give you a dedicated wifi hotspot or some kind of secret, super-fast bonus wifi network -- at the airport and in the air -- that actually works.

4. Be the last one to board the plane

Elite status should let you be the LAST person on the plane. You should feel like, 'this plane is waiting for me, and the moment I get onboard, it's wheels up.'

5. Free cockpit tours

Cockpits are cool, and elite status should give you permission to visit the flight deck sometime. Airlines should offer special behind-the-scenes tours for elite status passengers.

Thankfully, the best travel rewards credit cards can help you get most of the perks of elite airline status without having to sit through dozens of flights. If you want to enhance your travel experience, check out the best airline credit cards.