Hilton Diamond is the top tier of Hilton Honors (until Diamond Reserve launches in 2026), and it comes with perks that make traveling with a dog way easier — room upgrades, late checkout, free breakfast, and more.

Here’s how I got it and why it’s worth pursuing.

💎 How I Got Diamond Status

I earned Diamond status two ways:

First time: I hit the $40,000 spending threshold on my Hilton Surpass card through everyday spending — groceries, gas, dining, bills. Once you hit that number, Diamond status kicks in within a few weeks.

Now: I carry the Hilton Aspire card, which gives you automatic Diamond status just for having the card. No spending threshold, no stays required — you’re Diamond from day one.

If you’re serious about hotel travel, the Aspire is the easier path. If you’re already putting significant spend on a Surpass card, you might hit Diamond that way first.

⭐ Diamond Status Benefits

Here’s what you actually get:

🏨 The Perks I Actually Use

Room Upgrades

This is the big one. As a Diamond member, I’ve been upgraded to suites multiple times — including an ocean-view suite at the Embassy Suites in Panama City Beach. More space means more room for the dog to spread out, and a balcony is a game-changer for morning coffee while Ansel watches the beach.

Pro tip: When you book, add a note requesting an upgrade. It doesn’t guarantee anything, but it puts you on their radar.

Daily Food & Beverage Credit

At most U.S. Hilton properties, Diamond members get a daily F&B credit instead of free breakfast. The amount varies by brand (usually $15–$25 per person), and it applies to you plus one guest.

💡 Pro tip: These credits stack. Staying 3 nights? That’s 3 days of credits you can use whenever — save them up and have a nice dinner on your last night, or use them at the bar.

Late Checkout

When you’re traveling with a dog, late checkout is clutch. No rushing to pack up and get the dog out by 11am. I’ve gotten 2pm checkout at most properties just by asking at the front desk.

Executive Lounge Access

Where available, Diamond members can access the executive lounge for free breakfast, evening appetizers, and drinks. These are more common at international properties — in the U.S., they’re hit or miss. But when you find one, it’s a nice quiet spot to grab coffee or a snack.

Welcome Amenities

This varies by property, but I’ve received complimentary water bottles, snacks, and even treats for Ansel at check-in. Small touches that make you feel recognized.

🎯 Ways to Earn Diamond Status

For most people, the credit card path is the easiest. Unless you’re traveling for work constantly, hitting 60 nights is tough. But everyday spending on a Surpass or Aspire card? That adds up fast.

💳 The Credit Card Shortcut

Hilton Aspire ($550/year)

• Automatic Diamond status — no spend required
• Annual free night certificate
• $400/year in Hilton resort credits
• $200/year in flight credits (buy airline gift cards — they count!)
• 175,000 point sign-up bonus

Hilton Surpass ($150/year)

• Gold status automatic, Diamond at $40k spend
• $200/year in Hilton credits ($50/quarter — use at any Hilton property, even just for dinner)
• Free night after $15k spend
• 155,000 point sign-up bonus

If you want Diamond without the $550 Aspire fee, the Surpass path works — it just takes more spending. I did it for a couple years before upgrading to the Aspire.

For the full breakdown, check out my Best Credit Cards for Pet Travelers guide.

🌙 Free Night Certificates: The Secret Weapon

One of my favorite Diamond perks isn’t technically a Diamond perk — it’s the free night certificates from the Aspire card. But here’s what most people don’t realize:

These certificates work at almost any Hilton property.

I’ve used mine at resorts where rooms go for $400–$500/night. Some people have used them at properties charging $1,000+ per night. The certificate covers one standard night, regardless of the cash price.

So while you’re earning Diamond status and racking up points, those free night certificates are quietly saving you hundreds of dollars per year.

🐕 Why Diamond Matters for Pet Travelers

Here’s why I think Diamond status is especially valuable when you’re traveling with a dog:

1. Suite upgrades = more space. A regular hotel room with a 70-pound dog feels cramped. A suite with a separate living area? Much better.

2. Late checkout = less stress. Morning potty breaks, packing up dog gear, loading the car — it all takes longer with a pet. Late checkout gives you breathing room.

3. F&B credits = save money. Pet fees add up. Having your meals partially covered helps offset those costs.

4. Welcome amenities. Some properties include dog treats or pet welcome packages for Diamond members. It’s not guaranteed, but it happens.

📅 What’s Coming: Diamond Reserve (2026)

Hilton is adding a new tier above Diamond starting January 2026 — Diamond Reserve. It requires 80 nights or 40 stays PLUS $18,000 in eligible spend.

The perks include confirmable suite upgrades at booking, guaranteed 4pm late checkout, and 120% bonus points. For most travelers, regular Diamond will still be the goal — but it’s good to know what’s coming.

The good news: nothing changes for current Diamond members. All the existing benefits stay the same.

✅ The Bottom Line

Diamond status makes hotel travel more comfortable — especially with a dog. The upgrades, late checkout, and F&B credits add real value, and the credit card path makes it accessible even if you’re not a road warrior.

If you’re already staying at Hilton properties and putting spend on a Hilton card, Diamond is within reach. And once you have it, you’ll wonder how you traveled without it.

Have questions about earning or using Diamond status? Reach out — happy to help.

Read next: Why Hilton Is the Best Hotel Chain for Pet Travelers Read next: Quiz: Find Your Perfect Hilton Credit Card