How to Enroll in a Frequent-Flier Program

Joining the right frequent-flier program can help save you money and make frequent traveling a much more enjoyable experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Telephones
• Internet Access
• Frequent-flier Programs
• Postage Stamps
• Envelopes

1. Determine which airline has the most flights to and from the cities that you visit frequently. Consider destinations that you will visit as a paying passenger and destinations for which you plan to use free award tickets.
2. Look at surveys that rank the worth of frequent-flier programs, taking into consideration benefits such as mileage opportunities and customer service.
3. Consult travel newsgroups for opinions regarding programs.
4. Consider your traveling and purchasing habits and match them to the program with the most appropriate partners. These may include florists, hotels and rental car companies that can help you increase your miles.
5. Check for programs with mileage expiration policies that best suit your needs.
6. Contact the airline via the Internet, telephone, mail or in person at the airport, to enroll in the program of choice.
7. Provide the airline with your name, address and other requested information.

Tips & Warnings

• Some programs offer the option to donate your miles to a charity.