 TITLE: How to Maximize Hotel Credit Cards CONTENT: Elite Status\n------------\nOne of the standout features of many hotel credit cards is that they offer automatic elite status with their associated hotel loyalty program. That means cardholders can enjoy perks including room upgrades, free Wi-Fi during stays and even complimentary lounge access or breakfast in some cases without having to spend many nights in hotels each year—something that's usually required.\nFor instance, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card extends complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status to cardholders (and the opportunity to move up to Diamond status by spending $40,000 on eligible purchases on the card in a calendar year). Gold status normally requires spending 40 or more nights (or 75,000 base points) at Hilton properties in a calendar year and confers perks like earning bonus points on stays, space-available room upgrades and complimentary continental breakfast. Depending on how often you stay at Hilton properties, these benefits may add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars in value each year. In terms of this type of benefit, look for a hotel credit card that offers you a tier of elite status you would not be able to achieve on your own simply through bookings, but that provides perks you will also be able to use often enough to justify paying the card's annual fee. Terms apply. END