6 Incredible Money-Saving Perks You Can Access With Elite Airline Status

Many airlines reward your loyalty with status upgrades, and reaching the highest rung can grant you access to a number of perks that can save you time and money — or just make your overall flying experience more enjoyable.

Here’s a look at some of the money-saving perks you can access when you achieve elite status with your airline of choice.

Elite access often grants you free upgrades to first class, and some airlines — including Alaska — will even upgrade your travel companion for free.

You don’t have to pay checked bag fees if you achieve elite status, which can save you a hefty amount on every flight. The number of bags you can check for free will depend on your status tier. For example, those who achieve MVP status with Alaska Airlines get two free checked bags, while those who achieve MVP Gold 100K status get three free checked bags. United offers three free checked bags to both Premier Platinum and Premier 1K status members.

Your elite status can grant you free day passes to the airport lounge and/or a discounted lounge membership with certain airlines, including Alaska.

Some airlines offer discounts on CLEAR Plus memberships to their elite status members. For example, Alaska Airlines offers $10 off membership to all of its MVP flyers and Delta Airlines offers $40 off to those with Platinum Medallion Status.

You never have to pay for Wi-Fi if you’re a VIP flyer on certain airlines. For example, MVP Gold 100K members get free Wi-Fi on every Alaska Airlines flight.

Even if you don’t score a free seat upgrade, many airlines, including American Airlines, will provide free food and drinks to elite status members seated in the main cabin.