There’s a certain magic in those four words at check-in: “We’ve upgraded your room.” Maybe it means a better view, maybe it’s a suite with a bathtub the size of a small pool. Either way, it’s hard not to smile when you get something extra, especially when you didn’t pay more for it.
The good news? You don’t need to be a world traveler or a hotel loyalty point hoarder to get upgraded. You don’t even need elite status. These days, some credit cards do the heavy lifting for you. Just having the right card in your wallet can unlock complimentary hotel perks without jumping through hoops.
9 Cards That Come With Hotel Upgrade Perks
Let’s get into the good stuff. Which cards actually give you upgrades? Here are the best ones right now if you’re after hotel perks, no elite status required.
1. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
This one’s a heavy hitter. With this card, you get automatic Gold Elite status at Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors (you do need to enroll, but it’s quick). Gold status gets you complimentary room upgrades when available. On top of that, you also get access to The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels & Resorts, which come with elite-style perks like room upgrades, early check-in, and late checkout.
There’s a hefty annual fee ($695), but if you travel regularly, the value stacks up fast.
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Very similar to the Business version, this card also gives you Gold status with Marriott and Hilton, plus access to the same luxury hotel programs. You’ll also get up to $200 in statement credits when you book prepaid stays at Fine Hotels & Resorts or The Hotel Collection.
If you love the idea of automatic upgrades, late checkout, and maybe even a daily breakfast for two, this card delivers.
Annual fee: $695.
3. Chase Sapphire Reserve®
This card is a traveler favorite for lots of reasons, but it really shines when you book through the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection. That gets you room upgrades, early check-in, and daily breakfast, no status needed.
It also comes with a $300 annual travel credit that can be used toward hotels, which helps offset the $550 annual fee.
If you’re loyal to no particular brand and just want upgrades at top-tier properties around the world, this card is a solid pick.
4. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
This one’s a game-changer if you love Hilton properties. Right out of the gate, the Aspire Card gives you Diamond status, the highest tier in Hilton Honors. That means you’re first in line for upgrades, including suites, when they’re available.
It also comes with a $400 resort credit and automatic perks like executive lounge access and free breakfast.
Yes, the fee is $550, but if you stay at Hilton resorts even a couple of times a year, this card easily pays for itself.
5. The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
This is the more affordable sibling of the Aspire card. It gives you Gold status, which includes room upgrades, free breakfast, and a higher earning rate on Hilton stays. If you spend $40,000 in a year, you can bump up to Diamond.
At $195 per year, it’s a pretty sweet deal if you’re loyal to Hilton but don’t want to splurge on the Aspire card.
6. IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
If you lean more toward Holiday Inn, InterContinental, or Kimpton hotels, this card’s for you. It comes with Platinum Elite status, which includes room upgrades and extended checkout (when available). At just $99 per year, it’s one of the most affordable ways to enjoy elite perks at IHG hotels worldwide.
7. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
This premium Marriott card gets you Platinum Elite status, meaning complimentary room upgrades, enhanced internet, and a real shot at suite upgrades. You’ll also get 25 elite night credits each year, which helps you climb even higher in Marriott’s status ladder.
It comes with a $650 annual fee, but the value from the benefits (and the annual free night award) can go well beyond that.
8. Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
A more budget-friendly option for Marriott fans. It gives you Gold Elite status, which includes complimentary upgrades at select properties. It also comes with 15 elite night credits to get you closer to Platinum.
At $125 a year, it’s a great pick for business travelers who like their hotel stays just a bit more polished.
9. The World of Hyatt Credit Card
Last but not least, this card gives you Discoverist status in the World of Hyatt program. That includes room upgrades to preferred or premium rooms, late checkout, and faster Wi-Fi.
You’ll also get five qualifying nights every year just for having the card, which helps you earn even more perks. With an annual fee of just $95, it’s a simple way to enjoy Hyatt perks without going all-in on status chasing.
How to Make the Most of These Hotel Upgrade Cards
Having the card is only part of the game. If you want those sweet upgrades, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Always book directly through the program or portal (like Amex Travel or the Chase portal). Booking through third-party sites like Expedia or Hotels.com? Usually a fast way to miss out on perks.
- Be polite at check-in. Seriously. Smile, ask nicely, and you’d be surprised how far a little friendliness goes—especially when the front desk agent sees your elite status or booking source.
- Travel during slower periods. If the hotel’s fully booked, there’s no room to upgrade you into. But if it’s a quiet Tuesday? You might just land the best room on the floor.
A Better Hotel Stay Is One Card Away
If you love the idea of walking into a hotel and getting a better room without paying extra, having the right credit card is the ultimate cheat code. Cards with automatic hotel upgrades can open the door (literally) to suites, ocean views, fancy lounge access, and all kinds of perks that make travel feel way more fun.
So if you’re planning a trip and want a little extra luxury without the extra cost, consider one of these cards. Your hotel stay might just go from “meh” to “whoa” before you even set down your suitcase.
Note: Always check the latest terms and fees before applying, because offers can change. And remember to use your card responsibly so you actually enjoy those upgrades instead of stressing about the bill later!
