How to Maximize Frequent Flyer Miles
Airlines use frequent flier programs to enhance their visibility and build customer loyalty. There are many ways to earn miles and a seemingly endless variety of ways to spend them. Follow these tips to collect more miles and to learn how to spend them wisely.
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Instructions
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Visit the websites of your preferred airlines. You needn't limit yourself to one, but the fewer carriers you use, the quicker you will accumulate miles.
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Enroll in each airline's frequent flier program. Look for a link on the home page. Many airlines will give you bonus miles for signing up online.
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Read closely what each program offers. Many airlines will offer a credit card that earns you extra miles.
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Choose your miles awards carefully. Options with the most restrictions, such as requiring 21-day advance purchase or a Saturday night stay, will be the best value for your points.
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Spend your miles as soon as you can. Frequent flier miles can lose value as companies change the rules, often on an annual basis.
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Avoid using your miles on awards such as hotels or rental cars. You will always get a better value using them for flights.
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Tips & Warnings
Travel partnerships offer an excellent chance at earning points across many different carriers. Ask if your frequent flier program is a member of partner airline programs such as OneWorld or Star Alliance.
Most frequent flier programs will cancel all your accrued points if you cancel your agreement with them. If your agreement is credit-card based, be sure to use your points before you cancel the card.
