“These Bros Ain’t Loyal”: Why You Shouldn’t Chase Elite Status in 2026

The Thrifty Traveler Podcast · Feb 5, 2026 · 43m

People with status are often very loud about it (we’re looking at you Delta Medallions and Hyatt Globalists), but chasing airline and hotel loyalty isn’t smart for most travelers. It’s something we’re decidedly out on in 2026 and beyond. In “These Bros Ain’t Loyal”, we’re laying out the case against chasing status by identifying who status is for, and why it’s not the best way to travel more for less.

Watch us on YouTube!

00:00 - What should we call this episode?

01:55 - John Melson introduces the show

03:00 - The best airline & hotel statuses

07:15 - The worst airline & hotel statuses

11:25…