A significant shift is coming to the world of hotel loyalty, and Choice Privileges is leading the charge. Starting in 2026, earning and maintaining elite status will become noticeably easier, opening doors to enhanced travel experiences for a wider range of members.
Currently, achieving Gold, Platinum, or Diamond status requires a specific number of nights stayed each year. But those requirements are shrinking. In 2026, Gold status will be within reach after just five nights, Platinum after fifteen, and Diamond after thirty-five – a reduction of five nights across the board. This makes those coveted perks, like early check-in and room upgrades, far more attainable.
The most exciting development, however, is the introduction of Titanium elite status. Reserved for the most dedicated travelers – those who stay 55 nights or earn 110,000 elite qualifying credits annually – Titanium unlocks a truly unique benefit: the Titanium Travel Award. This allows members to book up to seven nights at premium Choice properties for half the usual points cost.
Imagine experiencing luxurious accommodations at a fraction of the price. The Titanium Travel Award isn’t just a discount; it’s access to a curated collection of over 400 exceptional hotels, offering a level of exclusivity previously unavailable within the Choice Privileges program.
Beyond these headline changes, Choice Privileges is rolling out a series of smaller, yet impactful, improvements. Members will receive bonus points after their second and third qualifying stays each year, and milestone rewards – including bonus points and gift cards – will be awarded every five nights between status tiers.
Perhaps the most reassuring change is the introduction of status soft landing in 2027. This means that if you don’t fully requalify for your current status, you’ll only drop one tier per year, providing a buffer and allowing you to retain some benefits while working towards regaining your previous level.
And for those who enjoy sharing the benefits of travel, points sharing will be introduced later in 2026, allowing members to transfer points to friends and family. This adds a new dimension of flexibility and generosity to the program.
Even the seemingly minor detail of points expiration is being addressed. Elite members will no longer have to worry about losing their hard-earned points due to inactivity, providing peace of mind and encouraging long-term engagement with the program.
These changes reflect a broader commitment to enhancing the travel experience and making rewards more accessible. Choice Privileges isn’t just tweaking its program; it’s fundamentally rethinking how loyalty is earned and rewarded, aiming to deliver more benefits, more often, to its members.
The full impact of these changes won’t be known until all the details are revealed, but the initial announcement signals a positive shift for travelers seeking value and recognition from their hotel loyalty programs. It’s a clear indication that Choice Privileges is listening to its members and responding to the evolving needs of the modern traveler.
