Let’s face it, travel can be expensive at times, and finding good deals seems more difficult than ever before. That’s why it’s important to take advantage of frequent flyer miles so that you can save yourself some money. Frequent flyer miles are easier to accumulate than you may think, and knowing when to use them and how to use them could help you to save money and possibly even allow you to go on more trips throughout the year.
Ready to learn more? Here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your frequent flyer program, including ways to earn miles, redeeming miles for upgrades, and tips for avoiding blackout dates.
What Are Frequent Flyer Miles?
Frequent flyer miles can be used to earn things such as free or discounted flights, seat upgrades, and more. These miles can be earned through frequent flyer programs offered by individual airlines and credit cards that partner with certain airlines. People who travel often may benefit from these programs as it gives them the chance to earn miles that can be used to get discounted travel.
What Airlines Offer Frequent Flyer Miles Programs?
Many people are surprised to hear that a majority of major airlines offer frequent flyer programs. A lot of airlines actually partner with credit card companies to allow travelers to earn miles when they use their credit cards to make purchases. Some airlines that offer frequent flyer programs include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Alaska Airlines. Some international airlines offer these types of programs too, so be sure to check with your chosen airline to see what they have available.
How Can I Earn Frequent Flyer Miles?
Depending on the program you enroll in, there are different ways that you can earn frequent flyer miles. For example, if you decide to apply for a credit card that has partnered with an airline, you can earn miles towards travel simply by using your credit card to make purchases. Some credit cards will even allow you to earn double or triple miles on certain purchases. You can also earn miles by purchasing flights through your chosen airline. Some programs offer additional ways to earn miles, so do your research in order to maximize your earnings.
What Can I Redeem Frequent Flyer Miles For?
There are usually a wide variety of things that you can redeem your frequent flyer miles for, but it all depends on which program you are enrolled in. Some programs may allow you to only redeem your miles for plane tickets, while others, like Delta, will let you redeem your miles for hotels and transportation, too. Additionally, you may also be able to use your miles to upgrade your airline seat. Some travelers will even save up their miles so that they can experience flying in first class!
Can I Use Frequent Flyer Miles For Upgrades?
When booking your flight, check to see if you can book a seat with your miles, rather than paying with money. This way, you can get your flight for free or get a discount on an upgraded seat. Some airlines will even allow you to use your frequent flyer miles to upgrade your ticket to first class. Although it may take you quite some time to accumulate that many miles, it could be worth it if you want to see what flying in first class is like, without having to pay a hefty price for your ticket.
How Can I Maximize My Miles?
When it comes time to redeem your miles, consider what you want to use them for, and then, think about how you can make the most of your miles. If you want to redeem your miles for a flight, you may want to consider booking a flight during the off season so that you can spend less miles and still get your ticket for free or at a discounted price. It’s the same if you want to redeem your miles to book a hotel. You can probably use less miles to book a night at a hotel if you choose to go during a slower time of the year rather than trying to travel during spring break or around the holidays.
Are There Blackout Dates for Using Frequent Flyer Miles?
It’s important that you do your research to see if the frequent flyer program that you’re enrolled in has blackout dates. Some of these programs won’t allow you to use your miles during certain days of the year, which could be a problem if you’re planning on using your earned miles to travel during spring break or around the holidays. Check your program’s policies in advance so that you’re not blindsided and end up having to change the dates of your trip.
Which Frequent Flyer Program Should I Choose?
There are so many frequent flyer programs out there that it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. If you aren’t sure which program to enroll in, we recommend doing your research, and seeing what each program has to offer. Some frequent flyer programs will give you more miles for completing specific tasks or purchasing certain items, so some programs may fit your needs better than others. Additionally, don’t be afraid to call a few airlines to ask questions about what benefits come with their frequent flyer programs.
Can I Transfer Miles Between Programs?
You typically cannot transfer miles between different frequent flyer programs. However, some programs will allow you to combine your points with other members of your family. For example, if you and your spouse both are part of the same frequent flyer program, you might be able to transfer your points from one person to another. This could be useful if the program you’re participating in allows you to use your points for things such as hotels, as you can earn free stays more quickly.
Are you enrolled in a frequent flyer miles program? If so, what are some ways that you maximize your miles?
