By Lacey Pfalz, TravelPulse
The U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 Best Travel Rewards Programs, released today, identifies the best airline and hotel brand rewards programs and adds two new categories for hotel brands and airlines that provide the most benefit to business travelers.
“Whether travelers are planning for a family vacation or for a work trip, choosing the right loyalty program or travel brand can make a meaningful difference in both value and overall experience,” says Elizabeth Von Tersch, U.S. News’ senior travel editor. “The 2026-2027 rankings combine robust data and expert analysis to help consumers identify the airlines, hotels and rewards programs that best fit the way they travel.”
The rankings are determined by a comprehensive method evaluating everything from membership benefits, network extensiveness, ease of use, quality and more.
The best airline loyalty rewards programs
Taking first place and unseating Alaska Airlines’ 11-year spot in first place is American Airlines AAdvantage program.
The others in the top, listed in order, are listed below:
- Atmos Rewards
- United MileagePlus
- JetBlue TrueBlue
- Delta SkyMiles
- Southwest Rapid Rewards
The best hotel loyalty rewards programs
The best hotel loyalty program of the year is Wyndham Rewards, chosen for its strong redemption value and global footprint.
The other highly ranked program, ranked in order, are below:
- Marriott Bonvoy
- World of Hyatt
- Choice Privileges
- Sonesta Travel Pass
- IHG One Rewards
The best airlines and hotel brands for business travelers
The best airline for business travelers is United Airlines, which stands out amongst the others for its flight availability, elite benefits and overall traveler experience.
The other notables are below:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
Meanwhile, Marriott International ranked first among the best hotel brands for business travelers, chosen for its business perks, strong credit card offerings and its large global network of hotels and other accommodations.
The other best brands for business travelers are below:
- Hilton Worldwide
- IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Hyatt Hotels
- Choice Hotels
- Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
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