Which elite status would you prefer, American or Alaska? | Ask Us Anything Ep82 | 1-7-26
Frequent Miler on the Air
Choosing elite status: Alaska vs American
Nick, Greg, and Tim compare Alaska and American status, with context on hub relevance, upgrades, and earning paths.
If you have to pick, which elite status would you prefer, American or Alaska? How does this new edit credit work? We answered these and many other questions on the Ask Us Anything hosted live on January 7th of 2026.
(03:34) - Curious to hear what 'coupons/credits' you just let go of, without redeeming by 12/31. I didn't use my first The Edit credit and can't stop feeling guilty.
(05:48) - How does this new edit credit work, because there are so many different answers...?
You can see a map of The Edit by Chase Travel℠ properties here:
(10:05) - What do you think about the Apple Card takeover by Chase?
See Greg's old post about the Apple Card here
(12:48) - Have any of you proactively lowered the credit limit on a card?
(17:17) - Do you think that the Bilt leak is real or fake? There are 3 different leaks right now
Find coffee break episode 86 about Bilt leaks here
(18:44) - I started with Chase (I'm newer to points), but I'm curious what you all think are the best uses of each of the ecosystems and/or what you personally use them for?
Learn more about Citi transfer partners here
(23:05) - Last October, I booked a stay at the Hyatt Regency Rome for mid-April 2026, not realizing it was a new hotel. The website now shows reservations starting May 1, 2026, with no availability in April. I’m concerned about whether my reservation will be honored. If the hotel isn’t ready, will Hyatt relocate me, and how soon would I be notified? I’ve booked a backup hotel, but would appreciate any tips
(25:25) - Do the miles and points conventions mention things that aren't normally discussed in free podcasts like yours?
(26:53) - Alaska miles redemption for Europe often entails BA metal that has high fees. Any tips on European redemptions? Or are Alaska miles mainly for AA or Asian partner awards?
(35:22) - Does that PLAT airline credit still work for United Travel Bank this year?
See our "Amex airline reimbursement fees...what still works?" post here
(36:53) - Venture X travel credit is a discount rather than a credit. If I have two bookings and have to cancel the one booked with the discount, can I retroactively have them lower the second booking?
(37:25) - What is everyone's US Bank strategy? I cashed mine out at 1.5x
(42:00) - If you have to pick, which elite status would you prefer, American or Alaska?
Find our podcast episode about American vs Alaska here
(48:01) - Find coffee break episode 86 about Bilt leaks here
(48:24) - Tim - In what cases is it worthwhile to keep both Atmos cards (Summit and Ascent)
(54:10) - For 2026, any new programs you’re prioritizing for earning or status? E.g. Citi to PHR, Atmos, etc?
Visit https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe/ to get updated on in-depth points and miles content like this, and don’t forget to like and follow us on social media.
Music Credit – “swappin’ back n’ forth” by up @ night
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