Re the link referred to in the article: https://thepointsguy.com/news/why-i-wont-chase-airline-status https://thepointsguy.com/news/why-i-wont-chase-airline-sta

Re the link referred to in the article: https://thepointsguy.com/news/why-i-wont-chase-airline-status https://thepointsguy.com/news/why-i-wont-chase-airline-statu... I suppose everyone has their own priorities, but it's insane to me that someone would willingly take layovers, crappy routes and less desirable destinations just to chase airline status for a given calendar year. And for what? An eventual upgrade that may never come because someone else bought a higher fare class or business is full? Free access to cheap beer and sad sandwiches inside a packed lounge? Slightly earlier boarding, which any $95/yr airline credit card would give you anyway? These so-called perks can't be more valuable than the time wasted gambling on dodgy connections. At the end of the day, it's easy to hack the system: just do what 99% of the people are too lazy to do. Plan trips early and study routes carefully. Use 3P tools to optimize fares. Pack and travel light. Arrive early at the airport. All these are much cheaper than what airlines are asking to bump your status level and go a long way in making the perks feel like they don't really make that much of a difference.