Best Airline and Hotel Rewards Programs of 2024? Answer is – Loyalty programs for airlines and hotels offer fantastic savings and perks for frequent travelers. In 2024, competition among these programs is fierce, with top contenders constantly changing their offerings. Factors like your travel style, desired destinations, preferred brands, and how you like to redeem your points and miles will determine the best programs for your needs. Understanding these programs’ earning structures, perks, partner networks, and redemption options is key to maximizing your travel benefits.

Best Airline and Hotel Rewards Programs of 2024

What are Travel Rewards Programs?

Travel rewards programs, commonly known as loyalty programs, are designed by airlines, hotels, and credit card companies to incentivize repeat business.

Essentially, you earn points or miles based on your spending or travel activity. These points can then be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including free flights, hotel stays, upgrades, exclusive experiences, and even merchandise.

Benefits of Loyalty Programs in 2024

The landscape of travel rewards is constantly evolving, and 2024 brings a compelling set of benefits for savvy travelers:

Combatting Inflation: As travel costs rise, points and miles can offset expenses, making your trips more affordable. Points often hold their value better than cash during inflationary periods.

Unlocking “Aspirational” Travel: Whether it’s a first-class flight or a luxury hotel, loyalty programs can make those dream trips a reality, often at a fraction of the cash cost.

Personalized Perks: Elite status tiers within programs provide tailored advantages like priority check-in, airport lounge access, complimentary room upgrades, and more, enhancing the travel experience.

Flexibility is King: Many programs have widened reward options. Beyond flights and hotels, you might redeem points for car rentals, cruises, exclusive events, or even donate them to charities.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Rewards Programs

Choosing the right loyalty programs for you in 2024 requires careful consideration. Here’s what to examine:

Your Travel Habits: Do you primarily fly one airline or stay loyal to a hotel brand? Do you travel domestically or internationally? Programs focused on your typical patterns will yield the best results.

Earning Potential: How do you want to earn points? Distance-flown models reward travel volume, while revenue-based systems focus on how much you spend. Consider your budget and travel frequency.

Redemption Value: Point values vary across programs. Research how far your points will stretch for flights, room nights, and other rewards that are important to you.

Elite Status: Do you travel enough to qualify for elite status tiers? Unlocking those can significantly enhance your experience. Evaluate the requirements and benefits carefully.

Partnerships: Programs collaborate with other airlines, hotels, and businesses. A robust partnership network greatly expands your earning and redemption opportunities.

Sarah Nelson Expert Opinion

“Choosing rewards programs is not one-size-fits-all,” explains Sarah Nelson, travel blogger. “It’s about understanding what kind of traveler you are and aligning your loyalty with the airlines and hotels that match those needs.”

Best Airline Reward Programs of 2024

Choosing the best program in the ever-changing loyalty space depends on your travel habits and goals, but a few programs consistently offer outstanding value and flexibility:

1. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

Why it Excels: Alaska Mileage Plan remains a favorite among frequent flyers for several reasons:

• Generous Rewards: It still uses one of the few remaining distance-based earning models, meaning you accumulate miles based on actual distance flown rather than money spent.
• Valuable Partners: Alaska is not part of a major airline alliance, but its strong partnerships include global powerhouses like Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, and Qantas. This expands earning and redemption options worldwide.
• Excellent Award Availability: Mileage Plan is known for reasonable redemption rates and good award availability for both domestic and international travel.

Who Benefits Most: Travelers who consistently fly Alaska, those based on the West Coast, and those desiring to redeem miles for international premium cabin experiences.

Ethan Steinberg Expert Opinion

“Alaska Mileage Plan’s sweet spot is using their miles for long-haul international flights in business or first class on their partner airlines,” says Ethan Steinberg, founder of Points Passport. “You can often find incredible deals, especially compared to other major U.S. airlines.”

2. Delta SkyMiles

Why it Excels: Delta SkyMiles has undergone significant changes in recent years, making it both complex and potentially rewarding depending on how you utilize the program.

• Dynamic Pricing: Delta has moved to dynamic award pricing, meaning the mileage cost of flights fluctuates based on demand. This can lead to either extremely good deals or frustratingly high prices.
• Flash Sales: Delta often runs “SkyMiles Deals”, offering heavily discounted award flights to both domestic and international destinations. Being on the lookout can snag great value.
• Amex Transfer Bonuses: Delta is a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards. Frequent transfer bonuses can boost the value of your Amex points when redeemed for Delta flights.

Who Benefits Most: Frequent Delta flyers, Amex cardholders, and travelers open to flexibility in dates and destinations to maximize value from flash sales.

3. United MileagePlus

Why it Excels: MileagePlus holds appeal due to a few key factors:

• Global Reach: As a member of Star Alliance, United offers one of the largest route networks in the world, making earning and redeeming on many international partners possible.
• Excursionist Perk: This unique feature allows you to essentially “squeeze in” a free one-way flight within a multi-city international itinerary under certain conditions. This can add amazing value.
• No Fuel Surcharges on Many Partner Awards: When redeeming United miles for flights on certain partners, those pesky fuel surcharges are often waived, saving you potentially hundreds of dollars compared to other programs.

Who Benefits Most: Those who frequently travel internationally, especially on Star Alliance airlines. Travelers who value flexibility with the Excursionist Perk benefit as well.

Kyle Stewart Expert Opinion

“United may not always have the cheapest award prices, but the Excursionist Perk and lack of fuel surcharges can be huge money-savers when used strategically for the right itineraries,” notes Kyle Stewart, travel expert at The Points Guy.

4. Southwest Rapid Rewards

Why it Excels: Southwest’s program is beloved for its simplicity and focus on valuable domestic travel.

• Revenue-Based Earning: Points are tied to the price of your ticket. Those who purchase higher-priced fares will earn (and redeem) points faster.
• Companion Pass: This coveted benefit allows a designated companion to fly nearly free with you for up to a year after qualification. If you often travel with someone, its value is immense.
• No Blackout Dates: Southwest doesn’t impose blackout dates on award flights. If there’s a seat for sale, you can generally use points to book it.

Who Benefits Most: Travelers focused on domestic U.S. flights, and those who often travel with a partner or companion, can take major advantage of the Companion Pass.

5. American Airlines AAdvantage

Why it Excels: American’s program offers a blend of potential value and convenience:

• Extensive Network: As a member of the Oneworld alliance and through its own route map, American offers a massive network of destinations both domestically and internationally.
• Web Specials: American frequently publishes ‘Web Special’ awards, offering good value for select routes and dates.
• Diverse Partners: AAdvantage maintains partnerships across various sectors, from hotels and car rentals to shopping portals and more, allowing for flexible ways to earn beyond flying.

Who Benefits Most: Frequent American Airlines flyers, travelers seeking a mix of domestic and international flights via Oneworld, and those who prefer a variety of ways to earn and redeem miles.

Gary Leff Expert Opinion

“Don’t overlook AAdvantage, especially for those seeking off-peak award flights on American itself. The Web Specials can sometimes surprise you with excellent deals,” advises Gary Leff, prominent travel rewards blogger at View from the Wing.

6. JetBlue TrueBlue

Why it Excels: JetBlue’s program shines in specific areas:

• Family Pooling: TrueBlue allows families to pool points together, making it faster to earn enough for award flights.
• Points + Cash Option: You have the flexibility to use a combination of points and cash to book flights, stretching your points further if your balance is low.
• Mint Redemptions: JetBlue’s premium ‘Mint’ cabin redemptions on select routes can sometimes be found for reasonable points prices, offering a way to experience lie-flat seats for less.

Who Benefits Most: Families, East Coast-based travelers (JetBlue’s hub network), and those who enjoy the option of booking awards even with a smaller points balance.

7. Frontier Miles

Why it Excels: Frontier Miles shines brightest for budget-conscious travelers and those who prioritize low award redemption rates.

• Focus on Ultra-Low Fares: Frontier is known for its ultra-low fares. While earning rates on flights are modest, award redemptions can start as low as 10,000 miles one-way, offering good value for the price.
• Family Pooling: Similar to JetBlue, families can pool Frontier Miles together, accelerating the path to award travel.
• Discount Den® Membership: For an annual fee, Discount Den® members have access to even lower award prices and other perks.

Who Benefits Most: Infrequent flyers, families, and budget-minded travelers who mainly fly Frontier domestically will find value here. Discount Den® membership can enhance benefits further if Frontier serves your typical travel routes.

JT Genter Expert Insight

“If you usually pay cash for the cheapest economy ticket, Frontier Miles can be surprisingly rewarding. The low redemption rates mean even small balances can go far,” suggests JT Genter, points and miles expert at The Points Guy.

8. HawaiianMiles

Why it Excels: HawaiianMiles offers outsized value for those seeking travel to and within the Hawaiian Islands.

• Distance-Based Earning: Hawaiian remains one of the few U.S. airlines with a distance-based earning model, rewarding those who take longer flights
• Sweet Spot Inter-island Awards: Flights between the Hawaiian islands start at just 7,500 miles one-way. This makes island hopping on points very attainable.
• Unique Partner Network: Beyond the standard airline and hotel partners, HawaiianMiles has specific collaborations with local Hawaiian businesses, offering more localized ways to earn and redeem.

Who Benefits Most: Travelers who adore Hawaii, those based on the West Coast with easy access to Hawaiian Airlines flights, and anyone seeking to discover multiple Hawaiian islands during a trip.

9. British Airways Executive Club

Why it Excels: While complex, the Executive Club can be extremely rewarding when used strategically:

• Sweet Spots for Shorter Flights: Due to its distance-based award chart, short-haul flights on British Airways partners (like American and Alaska within the U.S.) can offer excellent value.
• Oneworld Alliance: As a member of Oneworld, award redemptions across a large network of global airlines are possible.
• Transfer Partnerships: British Airways is a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy, providing multiple avenues to boost your Avios (their points currency).

Who Benefits Most: Frequent flyers taking short-haul partner flights. Travelers who focus on Oneworld airlines and savvy points strategists leveraging transfer partners offer maximum value.

Angelina Aucello Expert Opinion

“The key with British Airways is in the sweet spots. Their distance-based chart can unlock fantastic deals on specific routes if you know where to look,” emphasizes Angelina Aucello, travel rewards expert at NerdWallet.

10. Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer

Why it Excels: KrisFlyer is widely considered one of the best airline programs due to:

• Excellent Award Availability: Singapore Airlines is known for releasing a good amount of award space to its KrisFlyer members, especially on its own flights..
• Premium Cabin Aspirations: KrisFlyer miles are often the best way to book luxurious Singapore Suites or First Class on coveted routes at reasonable redemption rates.
• Diverse Partners: Their Star Alliance membership, combined with unique partnerships, provide global earning and redemption possibilities

Who Benefits Most: Travelers desiring to fly in premium cabins, especially in sought-after Singapore Airlines suites. Those who value a vast network of partners and good award availability.

Best Hotel Reward Programs of 2024

Choosing the right hotel loyalty program depends on several factors – your favorite brands, where you travel, and how you like to redeem points. Here’s a breakdown of two programs offering a lot of value for a wide range of travelers:

1. World of Hyatt

Why it Excels: World of Hyatt frequently ranks highly for these reasons:

• Valuable Points: Hyatt points are some of the most valuable in the industry. Redemptions at top-tier properties often offer incredible value compared to cash rates.
• Milestone Rewards: Earn bonus points and other perks for hitting spending or stay thresholds.
• Excellent Top-Tier Status: Globalist status provides suite upgrades (subject to availability), free breakfast, lounge access, waived resort fees and more, delivering a luxurious experience.
• Partnerships: Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio. Hyatt has a solid partnership with American Airlines, along with smaller collaborations like Lindblad Expeditions for unique redemptions.

Who Benefits Most: Travelers aiming for luxury stays, frequent Hyatt customers, and those who prioritize attainable top-tier elite status.

Spencer Howard Expert Opinion

“Hyatt points carry serious weight. When used strategically at aspirational properties, you can unlock a truly elevated travel experience for less,” notes Spencer Howard, founder of the travel rewards website Straight to the Points.

2. Marriott Bonvoy

Why it Excels: The sheer size and diverse brand portfolio are Bonvoy’s main draws.

• Massive Footprint: Marriott has the largest global hotel network. From budget-friendly options to ultra-luxury brands like Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis, there’s something for nearly every traveler.
• Fifth Night Free: Elite members enjoy a fifth night free on award stays.
• Varied Credit Card Options: Bonvoy has a robust co-branded card lineup, catering to different spending habits and offering ways to earn points quickly.
• Experiences: Bonvoy Moments allows you to redeem points for unique experiences like concerts, culinary events, and sporting event access.

Who Benefits Most: Travelers wanting maximum flexibility with location and hotel brands. Those willing to leverage the program’s complexity can find value in free nights and varied redemption options.

3. Hilton Honors

Why it Excels: Hilton Honors offers accessibility, flexibility, and unique redemption options:

• Global Presence: Hilton has a sizable footprint of hotels worldwide, ranging from budget-friendly options like Hampton Inn to luxurious brands like Waldorf Astoria.
• Fifth Night Free: All Hilton Honors members enjoy the fifth night free on points redemptions of five nights or more.
• Co-Branded Credit Cards: A wide array of Hilton credit cards with varying bonuses and perks cater to different spending styles.
• Points + Cash: The ability to combine points and cash for stays adds flexibility if your point balance is low.

Who Benefits Most: Travelers seeking a wide selection of hotels around the world, those willing to utilize co-branded credit card benefits, and anyone valuing the fifth night free perk on longer stays.

Ariana Arghandewal Expert Opinion

“Hilton Honors can be incredibly rewarding when you take advantage of their generous credit card signup bonuses and promotions,” explains Ariana Arghandewal, travel expert and founder of Pointchaser.

4. IHG One Rewards

Why it Excels: IHG One Rewards, revamped in 2022, has emerged as a compelling program with its focus on achievable elite status and straightforward earning structure:

• Milestone Rewards: Starting at just 20 nights, you unlock valuable perks like free breakfast, bonus point earning, and confirmed room upgrades.
• Reward Nights Now Count: Award stays now count towards your elite status progression, meaning you can climb tiers faster.
• Partnerships: IHG partners with Chase Ultimate Rewards for point transfers and offers several co-branded credit cards with enticing perks.
• Diverse Brands: From Holiday Inn to luxury InterContinental properties, IHG covers various budgets and styles.

Who Benefits Most: Travelers who can strategically hit the Milestone Reward thresholds to unlock meaningful benefits. Those who enjoy IHG brands and value a clear path to rewarding elite status.

5. Wyndham Rewards

Why it Excels: Wyndham stands out for its simplicity and focus on budget-conscious travelers.

• Vast Network of Budget Hotels: Wyndham boasts a massive collection of economy and midscale brands like Days Inn, Super 8, La Quinta, Travelodge, and more. This means wide availability, especially in smaller towns and roadside locations.
• Straightforward Points: Wyndham uses a flat-rate award chart. Most properties cost 15,000 points per night, with some at 7,500 or 30,000 points.
• Vacasa Partnership: You can redeem Wyndham points for vacation home rentals through Vacasa, offering unique accommodations outside traditional hotel settings.

Who Benefits Most: Road trippers, travelers seeking affordable stays in numerous locations throughout the U.S., and those interested in vacation home redemptions

Emily McNutt Expert Opinion

“Wyndham shines when you need reliable, no-frills accommodations in locations where other major hotel chains may not be present . The predictability of their point redemptions simplifies planning,” says Emily McNutt, travel editor at The Points Guy.

6. Choice Privileges

Why it Excels: Choice Privileges caters well to budget travelers and those seeking wider international coverage compared to Wyndham.

• Focus on Economy Brands: Similar to Wyndham, Choice has an extensive portfolio of budget brands like EconoLodge, Rodeway Inn, and Comfort Inn, along with some upscale options.
• Points + Cash Flexibility: Choice frequently offers Points Plus Cash redemptions, allowing you to stretch your points further if your balance is low.
• Global Reach: Choice has a surprisingly large footprint outside the U.S. This can be useful for travelers venturing abroad on a budget.

Who Benefits Most: Budget-minded travelers needing accommodations both in the U.S. and internationally, and those who want the flexibility of points combined with cash for award stays.

7. Best Western Rewards

Why it Excels: Best Western Rewards offers value and flexibility for travelers who favor a mix of independent hotels alongside familiar brands:

• Diverse Portfolio: Best Western spans a wide range, from budget-friendly options to upscale boutique-style properties under the BW Premier Collection and BW Signature Collection.
• “Status Match…No Catch”: Best Western readily matches elite status from other hotel programs, potentially unlocking immediate perks.
• No Blackout Dates: You’ll generally find award availability, even during peak periods, if the hotel has rooms to sell.
• Points Don’t Expire: As long as you have some account activity within a year, your Best Western points will remain safe.

Who Benefits Most: Travelers who split their stays between major chains and independent hotels, road-trippers seeking locations off the beaten path, and those wanting a straightforward program without blackout dates.

Clint Proctor Expert Opinion

“Best Western Rewards can surprise you. If you find a unique Best Western property in a location without many other hotels, the points redemption rates can often be a good deal,” comments Clint Proctor, points expert and editor-in-chief of BoardingArea.

8. Radisson Rewards

Why it Excels: The newly revamped Radisson Rewards program offers solid earning potential and unique redemption options.

• Two Program Tiers: Radisson Rewards Americas and Radisson Rewards (for the rest of the world) offer slightly different perks and earning rates, depending on your location.
• Cruise Partnerships: A unique feature is the ability to redeem Radisson points for cruises on lines such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises or Norwegian Cruise Line.
• Generous Promotions: Radisson frequently runs promotions that boost earning or offer discounted points redemptions

Who Benefits Most: Travelers who often stay at Radisson properties, especially its upscale Radisson Blu and Radisson RED brands, cruisers seeking alternative redemption options, and those who want to take advantage of promotions.

9. Accor Live Limitless (ALL)

Why it Excels: Accor boasts a diverse portfolio of brands worldwide, offering value potential for a range of travelers.

• Global Presence, European Strength: Accor has hotels from budget-friendly Ibis brands to luxurious properties like Fairmont, Raffles, and Sofitel. It’s particularly strong in Europe.
• Flexible Earning: You can earn ALL points through hotel stays, dining, car rentals, and even experiences booked through their portal.
• Status Accelerator: Accor often runs promotions allowing you to earn elite status faster.
• Partnerships: Accor has solid partnerships, including airlines like Air France/KLM Flying Blue, opening up additional earning and redemption avenues.

Who Benefits Most: Frequent European travelers, those enjoying a mix of budget and luxury experiences, and anyone who can leverage promotions for status-boosting stays.

Daniel Eriksson Expert Opinion

“Don’t overlook Accor, especially if you travel to Europe often or seek unique hotel experiences in far-flung destinations. ALL points can offer good value in places where other major chains may be scarce,” advises Daniel Eriksson, founder of travel blog FlyGosh.

10. Shangri-La Golden Circle

Why it Excels: Golden Circle excels in delivering top-notch service and recognition for those who favor Shangri-La’s luxurious hotels and resorts.

• Focus on Luxury: Shangri-La properties are known for refined elegance, spacious rooms, and excellent service, especially throughout Asia.
• Unique “Experiences” Awards: Shangri-La goes beyond hotel nights, allowing redemption for exclusive dining experiences, spa treatments, and local tours.
• Jade Status Perks: The mid-tier Jade status offers valuable benefits like complimentary upgrades (when available), early check-in/late checkout, and generous dining discounts at the hotel.

Who Benefits Most: Luxury travelers, especially those focused on Asia, who prioritize service, spacious accommodations, and unique on-property experiences.

Understanding Program Specifics

1. Earning Rates

How you earn points or miles is a foundational aspect of any loyalty program. Two main models dominate the landscape:

Distance-Based: Historically, many airline programs used this model. You earn miles based on the actual distance flown. A 5,000-mile flight earns you roughly 5,000 miles (often with a base minimum per flight segment).

• Example: Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan is one of the few major U.S. airlines still using a distance-based system.
• Pros: Rewards long-haul travel proportionally.
• Cons: Short flights can earn meager rewards.

Revenue-Based: This model has become pervasive, adopted by airlines like United, Delta, American, and most hotel programs. Your earnings are tied to how much you spend.

• Example: Spend $1,000 on a flight, earn 5,000-10,000 miles (depending on the program and your elite status).
• Pros: Big spenders are rewarded, even for short flights.
• Cons: Long flights in cheaper fare classes may earn disproportionately few miles.

Gary Schmidt Expert Opinion

“Revenue-based earning models have flipped the script. It’s no longer just about where you fly but how much you’re willing to pay,” points out Gary Schmidt, travel rewards blogger at Milestomemories.

2. Elite Status Tiers and Benefits

Most loyalty programs have tiers you progress through by spending more or staying/flying a certain number of nights or segments. Benefits typically get better as you move up. Common perks include:

Bonus Points/Miles on Spending: Earn at a higher rate than base members.

Complimentary Upgrades: Get upgraded to premium cabins on flights or nicer rooms at hotels (subject to availability).

Priority Services: Think priority check-in, early boarding, and dedicated customer service lines.

Lounge Access: Escape the airport crowds with entry into airline or partner lounges.

Waived Fees: Enjoy perks like free checked bags on flights or waived resort fees at hotels.

3. Points/Miles Redemption Options

Here’s where the fun starts! Common redemption options include:

Flights: The classic – redeem miles for award flights on your chosen airline or its partners.

Hotels: Exchange your hotel points for free nights at various properties within their portfolio.

Upgrades: Use points or miles for upgrades on paid flights or hotel rooms.

Experiences: Some programs offer redemptions for events, dining, activities, or exclusive access.

Merchandise: While rarely the best value, some programs let you redeem for goods through their catalog.

4. Co-branded Credit Cards

Credit cards tied to airlines and hotels are powerhouses for earning points and miles. Consider:

Welcome Bonuses: These can jumpstart your balance with tens of thousands of points/miles after meeting initial spending requirements.

Everyday Spending: Earn points/miles on groceries, dining, gas, etc., depending on the card.

Program Perks: Benefits like free checked bags, lounge passes, or even elite status can be included.

Ashley Rossi Expert Opinion

“Choosing the right co-branded card is often more powerful than the base earning structure of the loyalty program itself,” emphasizes Ashley Rossi, travel expert at SmarterTravel.

Additional Factors

1. Transfer Partners

Beyond earning directly within an airline or hotel program, transfer partners open up a world of possibilities to top up your balances strategically. Here’s the gist:

Major Banks: Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Capital One Miles often partner with multiple airlines and hotels. Your points in these programs can be transferred at various ratios.

Other Rewards Programs: Sometimes even other hotel programs can become transfer partners. For example, Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to various airlines.

Why It Matters: Transfer bonuses, where banks offer limited-time boosts (e.g., a 20% bonus when transferring to United), can make those points far more valuable.

2. Travel Goals and Preferences

Your ideal loyalty programs are as unique as your travel habits. Consider these questions:

Luxury vs. Budget?: Do you relish spacious suites and premium service, or do affordability and location matter most? Programs cater to both ends of the spectrum.

Domestic vs. International?: Some programs shine with a focus on a specific region, while others offer a sprawling global network.

Airline Alliances?: Understanding Star Alliance, Oneworld, and SkyTeam will help you choose programs unlocking the most destinations.

Flexibility Is Your Friend: Do you plan far in advance or like last-minute trips? Programs with good award availability and no blackout dates (like Southwest or Best Western) may be better for you.

Julian Kheel Expert Opinion

“Don’t just chase the biggest signup bonus. Align your loyalty focus with how and where you actually want to travel,” advises Julian Kheel, senior travel writer at The Points Guy.

3. Ease of Use

A loyalty program may be amazing on paper, but if it’s complicated to understand and utilize, the value diminishes. Consider:

Website/App Functionality: Can you easily search for awards, understand redemption rules, and manage your account online?

Award Availability: Are you consistently frustrated trying to find award flights or hotels for your desired travel?

Customer Service: If something goes wrong, is it easy to get help from the loyalty program?

Rules and Restrictions: Do blackout dates, complicated award charts, or expiration policies create hurdles to using your points and miles?

What Does This Mean for Travelers in 2024

Research is Paramount: With programs constantly shifting policies and award values, staying up-to-date is critical. Relying on outdated information could mean missed opportunities or frustration when redeeming points.

Resources: Blogs like The Points Guy, One Mile at a Time, and View from the Wing track changes and publish news about loyalty programs.

Potential for Unlocking Incredible Value

While complexity has increased, those willing to put in the effort can reap major rewards in 2024.

• “Aspirational” Travel: Points and miles can make once unattainable dream trips – think international business class or overwater bungalows – a reality.
• Offset Inflation: As travel costs rise, strategic use of loyalty programs can help your travel budget go further.

Flexibility is Essential: Locking yourself into a single program may not always be the best move. Diversification can be your friend.

Strategies for Multiple Programs

Here’s how to manage loyalty in various programs without getting overwhelmed:

Focus on Your Mainstays: Pick one or two airlines and hotel chains where you consistently stay or fly. Prioritize earning meaningfully with those brands.

Complement with Transferable Points: Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards add flexibility because of their multiple airline and hotel transfer partners.

Target Your “Why”: Do you mainly collect miles for international premium cabins? Do you need hotel points for an upcoming road trip? Tailor your earning efforts accordingly.

Don’t Let Points Sit Idle: Inactivity often leads to expiration. Even if you aren’t traveling soon, consider small redemptions or activity-generating methods to keep balances active.

Katie Genter Expert Opinion

“Think of loyalty programs like a toolbox. You need the right tools for the job. Don’t get caught using a hammer when you need a screwdriver,” quips Katie Genter, points and miles expert at The Freebie Guy

FAQs

Q: “I’m not a frequent traveler. Are loyalty programs still worth it for me?”

Absolutely! Even infrequent travelers can benefit. Focus on programs aligned with where you typically stay or fly, and consider a co-branded credit card for its welcome bonus and everyday earning potential. Look for programs without blackout dates and points that don’t expire.

Q: “Isn’t it too overwhelming to keep track of multiple programs?”

It can be! Start slowly with one or two programs that fit your main travel patterns. Award tracking services like AwardWallet can help you monitor balances across various programs.

Q: “Do I get better perks from booking directly with the airline/hotel?”

Sometimes. Some hotels offer exclusive rates or promotions for direct bookings. However, you often can’t use points this way. Weigh the value of those perks vs. the value of your points and potential elite status benefits.

Q: “Can I use points and cash together for a trip?

Many programs offer this flexibility. It can be a good strategy if your points balance can’t cover the whole trip, or if cash prices are low, but award availability is limited.

Q: “What happens to my points/miles if I cancel an award trip?”

Most programs will reinstate them, though some may charge a small redeposit fee. Always read the cancellation policies carefully before booking.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of travel rewards in 2024 requires effort but offers the potential to significantly enhance your travel experience. Here’s a recap of the most important points:

• No One-Size-Fits-All: The best programs depend entirely on your individual needs, travel preferences, and spending patterns.
• Do Your Homework: Research current program benefits, earning structures, award pricing trends, and partner networks before diving in.
• Flexibility is Your Ally: Be willing to diversify programs and utilize tools like points transfers to maximize value.
• Think Beyond the Basics: Consider earning potential with co-branded credit cards, shopping portals, dining programs, or other partners of loyalty programs you select.
• It’s a Journey, Not a Destination: Embrace the learning curve, stay aware of program updates, and view loyalty programs as a long-term strategy to unlock exceptional travel experiences.