IHG offers a fast track to elite status with as little as 2 paid nights

Chasing elite status with an airline or a hotel loyalty program can feel like a lot of work. Don’t you wish there were an easier way?

Right now, IHG One Rewards is offering a shortcut to Gold Elite and Platnum Elite status. During this promotion, you can earn elite status through December 2024 with as little as two nights.

Let's take a closer look at this promotion and what's included with IHG elite status.

IHG One Rewards status challenge details

Through April 30, IHG One Rewards members can enroll for a status fast-track with IHG One Rewards. You don't need to be an elite member with another program to participate, so any IHG One Rewards member can enroll in the status fast-track.

Once you register for the promotion, you'll have 90 days to stay either two nights to earn Gold Elite status or five nights to earn Platinum Elite status.

Gold Elite typically requires staying 20 nights or earning 40,000 elite qualifying points. Meanwhile, Platinum Elite typically requires staying 40 nights or earning 60,000 elite qualifying points.

However, note that you can also get Platinum Elite status by holding the IHG Rewards Premier Business Credit Card or IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card.

Key terms

Qualifying stays are those booked under a qualifying rate and the room rate must be $30 or more (or a local equivalent if staying in another country). Bookings through third-party sites are not eligible, and you can only earn credit for one room per night, no matter how many rooms you book. Also, if two members check in to the same room, only one will receive credit for the stay.

Qualifying stays are eligible at any participating IHG hotel or resort or Mr & Mrs Smith property worldwide, except for Six Senses hotels, resorts and spas that do not participate in IHG One Rewards and Iberostar Beachfront resorts that are not yet integrated into IHG One Rewards.

If you’re interested, you can enroll for this status challenge here. Remember that the 90-day clock starts ticking as soon as you register, so time your registration carefully.

Benefits of elite status tiers

With IHG Gold Elite status, you're entitled to 40% bonus points on IHG stays, priority check-in, 2 p.m. late checkout (when available) and rollover elite nights.

Meanwhile, Platinum Elite members receive 60% bonus points on stays with IHG. You’ll also receive room upgrades at check-in, when available, plus a welcome amenity of points or a drink/snack. Members are also eligible for all Gold Elite benefits outlined above.

Related: What is IHG One Rewards elite status worth in 2022?

Bottom line

This promotion likely comes at a great time for those looking to shift their hotel allegiance.

It’s a terrific option for those with upcoming stays at IHG properties, since this status challenge could help you attain Gold Elite or Platinum Elite status with significantly reduced stay requirements compared to normal thresholds. And while top-tier Diamond Elite status isn't included with this challenge, there are some real benefits to be found at the Platinum Elite level.

Meanwhile, if you might not spend enough nights with IHG over the next year to enjoy the benefits, this challenge probably doesn’t make sense. However, if you’ll be able to enjoy the perks conferred by your newfound status, then participating in this challenge to elevate your status with IHG One Rewards likely makes sense for you.

Additional reporting by Ryan Smith.