The best travel loyalty programs, ranked

U.S. News & World Report has released its 2026–2027 Best Travel Rewards Programs rankings, highlighting top airline and hotel loyalty schemes and introducing two new categories focused on hotel and airline programs that deliver the most value for business travelers. The methodology weighs membership benefits, network reach, ease of use, and redemption quality, combining “robust data and expert analysis.” In the airline category, American Airlines AAdvantage takes first place, replacing Alaska Airlines’ 11-year run. The top five includes Atmos Rewards, United MileagePlus, JetBlue TrueBlue, Delta SkyMiles, and Southwest Rapid Rewards. For hotels, Wyndham Rewards leads, followed by Marriott Bonvoy, World of Hyatt, Choice Privileges, Sonesta Travel Pass, and IHG One Rewards. For business travelers, United is the top airline and Marriott International tops hotel brands.