Are you planning your next adventure? Airline miles are a fantastic means to slash travel expenses or even score free flights. While a reliable travel rewards credit card is a go-to for earning miles, there are various other avenues, ensuring flexibility and perks. Let’s delve into 10 foolproof methods to accumulate airline miles, catering to cardholders and non-cardholders alike.
Let’s look at the 10 best ways to earn airline miles, catering to credit card users and those preferring different routes.
Ways to Earn Airline Miles With a Credit Card
1. Choose the Right Credit Card
Selecting a travel rewards credit card aligned with your needs is crucial. Different cards cater to specific spending habits, offering points or miles for every dollar spent. Whether it’s a co-branded card with exclusive airline perks or a general rewards card for flexibility, make a choice that complements your travel goals.
2. Earn a Welcome Bonus
Seize the opportunity of welcome bonuses by meeting the minimum spending limit within a specified timeframe. These bonuses can significantly boost your mileage account, varying from card to card. Look at lucrative offers like the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card’s 20,000 bonus miles or the Platinum Card® from American Express’s impressive 100,000 Membership Rewards points.
3. Use Airline Shopping Portals
Online shopping portals from major airlines like Delta, Southwest, and United provide a convenient way to earn extra miles. By redirecting your online purchases through these portals, you can accrue additional points on top of your credit card rewards. It’s a simple and effective method to enhance your bonus rewards rate.
4. Participate in an Airline Dining Program
Many airlines extend their rewards programs to dining establishments. You can earn extra points or miles by dining at specific restaurants, bars, or clubs affiliated with airline programs. Some programs even offer rewards for online purchases, adding another dimension to your mileage accumulation.
5. Take Advantage of Airline Partners
Major airlines often belong to alliances such as Oneworld, SkyTeam, or Star Alliance. Enrol in partner frequent flyer programs to accrue miles redeemable across the entire alliance. For example, if you’re a loyal United Airlines customer, sign up for partner programs with airlines like Air Canada, Avianca, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines to widen your mileage options.
6. Transfer Miles From Another Loyalty Program
If you’re shy of points for a specific redemption, explore transferring miles from another loyalty program. Many general travel rewards cards allow you to transfer points to partner programs, including airlines. This proves handy when you need just a few more points for that desired redemption.
7. Earn Miles Through Hotel Accommodations and Car Rentals
Extend your mileage opportunities beyond flights by earning miles through hotel stays and car rentals. Some companies collaborate with airlines, allowing you to accumulate miles with your accommodations or car hire. Be cautious of potential surcharges that might offset the benefits.
8. Pool Your Miles
Boost your mileage balance by pooling points with family or friends. Some airlines permit points pooling, enabling you to combine forces for a more substantial reward. JetBlue’s TrueBlue program, for example, allows members to pool points with up to six others, maximizing their collective earning potential.
9. Take Surveys
Share your insights and earn miles by participating in airline survey programs. Several carriers, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest, and United, reward customers with miles for completing surveys. While surveys may demand your time, they can bolster your mileage balance effortlessly.
10. Purchase Airline Miles
When your mileage balance falls short, consider purchasing miles directly through your credit card’s rewards online account. While this approach is straightforward, be cautious, as purchased points might cost more than their redemption value. Watch for sales or discounted miles offers to optimize your purchase.
Conclusion
Earning airline miles is not exclusive to credit card holders. From shopping portals to dining programs and survey participation, there are diverse avenues to boost your mileage balance. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a novice, explore these strategies to make your next adventure more rewarding.
FAQs
Can I earn miles without a credit card?
Absolutely! Utilize methods like online shopping portals, dining programs, and surveys to accrue miles without relying on credit card transactions.
Are there any risks associated with purchasing airline miles?
Purchasing miles can be costlier than their redemption value, potentially leading to financial losses. Keep an eye out for sales to make the most of your purchase.
How quickly can I transfer miles between loyalty programs?
Transfer times vary, ranging from almost instant to several days. Plan accordingly, especially if you’re close to booking a flight.
Can I pool points with friends from different airlines?
Policies differ among airlines, but some, like JetBlue, allow pooling with family and friends. Check the specific terms of your loyalty program.
Do survey programs offer enough miles to be worthwhile?
While filling out surveys is relatively easy, the miles earned may not be substantial. Evaluate the time commitment and decide if it aligns with your value proposition.