Choice Privileges is the new No. 1 hotel rewards program; Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan holds onto top spot in airline program ranking.

WASHINGTON, July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels , Best Cruise Lines and Best Vacations , unveiled the 2025-2026 Best Travel Rewards Programs to help everyday travelers find the best loyalty programs.

U.S. News & World Report Logo. (PRNewsfoto/U.S. News & World Report)

The 2025-2026 rankings highlight nine airline and 14 hotel loyalty programs that offer travelers the best perks as well as easy ways to earn and redeem points and miles:

Choice Privileges claims the No. 1 spot on the Best Hotel Rewards Programs ranking for 2025-2026 after 10 consecutive years in the ranking’s top five. Choice Privileges allows members to quickly earn free nights, and due to its acquisition of Radisson and an enhanced partnership with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the program has expanded its reach to include both budget-focused brands and luxury offerings. With Choice Privileges’ reasonably attainable elite status, members also receive impactful perks like room upgrades, early check-in and late checkout after just 10 nights. Wyndham Rewards secured the No. 2 spot, while World of Hyatt remains at No. 3. Both programs stand out for their ease of earning a free night, with Wyndham offering one of the largest global hotel networks.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan maintains its No. 1 position for the Best Airline Rewards Programs for the 11th consecutive year. Members earn points based on miles flown rather than spending, ensuring a path to elite status regardless of ticket price. First-tier elite status includes free upgrades, checked bags and same-day confirmed flight changes, while oneworld Alliance’s multi-airline partnerships provide access to destinations worldwide and increased perks for frequent flyers. United MileagePlus moves up to No. 2 and American Airlines AAdvantage ranks No. 3, both benefiting from high flight volume and the strongest network scores across all ranked programs.

“With significant changes to travel rewards policies over the past few years, consumers are reviewing program offerings to ensure their spending delivers worthwhile benefits,” says Elizabeth Von Tersch , U.S. News’ senior travel editor. “As reward systems constantly evolve, the Best Travel Rewards Programs provide travelers with helpful data to make informed decisions about travel rewards.”