How to Choose the Best Frequent Flyer Program? Answer is – The best frequent flyer program for you depends on your travel habits and goals. Consider where you live, where you want to fly, how often you travel, and what type of rewards you value most. Research different programs and compare their benefits, such as earning rates, redemption options, and elite status perks. Don’t be afraid to join multiple programs to maximize your rewards.
Summary
- Factors to consider: Location, preferred airlines, travel frequency, desired rewards (e.g., free flights, upgrades).
- Top U.S. programs: United MileagePlus, American AAdvantage, Delta SkyMiles.
- Benefits: Free flights, upgrades, priority boarding, waived baggage fees, lounge access.
- Earning miles: Flying, credit card spending, hotel stays, car rentals, shopping portals.
- Redeeming miles: Flights, upgrades, merchandise, gift cards, hotel stays, car rentals.
- Maximize rewards: Join multiple programs, use co-branded credit cards, take advantage of promotions.
Best Frequent Flyer Program
Why join a frequent flyer program?
Frequent flyer programs, also known as loyalty programs, are designed to reward travelers who consistently fly with a particular airline or group of airlines.
By joining, you gain access to a world of benefits that can enhance your travel experience and save you money.
These programs are essentially a “thank you” from airlines for your loyalty, and they incentivize you to choose their flights over competitors.
What are the benefits of frequent flyer programs?
The perks you receive as a frequent flyer member can significantly impact your travels:
1. Free Flights and Upgrades: Accumulate enough miles or points, and you can redeem them for free flights or upgrade your seat to a more luxurious class.
2. Priority Boarding and Check-in: Skip the lines and board the plane early, giving you more time to settle in and ensuring overhead bin space for your carry-on.
3. Waived Baggage Fees: Avoid those pesky checked bag fees, saving you money on each trip.
4. Lounge Access: Enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, Wi-Fi, and other amenities in airline lounges while waiting for your flight.
5. Exclusive Discounts and Offers: Gain access to special deals on flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel-related services.
6. Elite Status: As you earn more miles or points, you can reach elite status levels, unlocking even more benefits like bonus miles, priority customer service, and more.
How do frequent flyer programs work?
At their core, frequent flyer programs are simple:
- Join: Sign up for free with the airline(s) you fly most often.
- Earn: Earn miles or points every time you fly, use a co-branded credit card, stay at partner hotels, rent cars through partners, or shop through airline portals.
- Redeem: Use your accumulated miles or points to book flights, upgrades, or other rewards.
Each program has its unique earning and redemption structure, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the details of the programs you join. Some programs have different tiers of membership, each offering increasingly valuable benefits.
Brian Kelly Expert Opinion
According to travel expert Brian Kelly, The Points Guy, “The key to maximizing frequent flyer programs is to understand their intricacies and leverage their benefits to your advantage. It’s about more than just free flights; it’s about enhancing your entire travel experience.”
The Biggest U.S. Frequent Flyer Programs
1. United MileagePlus
United Airlines’ MileagePlus program is one of the largest and most well-established frequent flyer programs in the world.
With a vast network of destinations and a wide range of partners, MileagePlus offers ample opportunities to earn and redeem miles for flights, upgrades, and other rewards.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extensive network of destinations | Award availability can be limited, especially for saver awards |
| Miles never expire | Devaluation of miles over time |
| Variety of ways to earn miles (flights, credit cards, partners) | Dynamic pricing can make award redemptions unpredictable |
| Wide range of redemption options (flights, upgrades, merchandise, experiences) | Limited partner airline options compared to some other programs |
| User-friendly website and app | Customer service can be inconsistent |
| Elite status perks (e.g., priority boarding, upgrades, lounge access) | Qualification requirements for elite status can be challenging for infrequent travelers |
| Excursionist Perk allows for a free one-way award within select multi-city itineraries |
Best For
- Frequent flyers who value flexibility and a wide range of redemption options
- Travelers who fly to a variety of destinations, both domestic and international
- Individuals who want to earn miles through a variety of methods, including credit cards and partner activities
- United Airlines loyalists who appreciate the airline’s expansive route network and partner airlines
Summer Hull Expert Opinion
According to travel expert Summer Hull, founder of Mommy Points, “United MileagePlus can be a great program for travelers who prioritize flexibility and variety. The program’s extensive network and numerous redemption options make it a good fit for those who like to have choices when it comes to using their miles.”
2. American AAdvantage
American Airlines’ AAdvantage program is a titan in the world of frequent flyer programs, boasting a rich history and a massive network of destinations through its Oneworld alliance partners.
With a range of earning and redemption opportunities, AAdvantage caters to diverse traveler preferences.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extensive global network with Oneworld partners, offering flights to nearly 1,000 destinations worldwide. | Fuel surcharges on award flights can significantly increase the overall cost of travel. |
| Multiple avenues to earn miles: flying with American or partners, using co-branded credit cards, shopping through the AAdvantage eShopping portal, and more. | Award availability for saver-level awards can be limited, particularly on popular routes and during peak travel periods. |
| Relatively predictable award redemption rates, making it easier to plan and budget for reward travel. | Customer service can be inconsistent, with varying levels of responsiveness and helpfulness across different channels. |
| Elite status tiers offer valuable perks such as priority boarding, lounge access, and complimentary upgrades. |
Best For
- Frequent flyers who value a vast network of destinations and appreciate the flexibility offered by Oneworld alliance partners.
- Travelers who prioritize predictable award redemption rates and are willing to pay fuel surcharges for award flights.
- Individuals who frequently fly on American Airlines and can take advantage of elite status perks.
- Consumers who actively use co-branded credit cards and engage with AAdvantage partners to earn miles quickly.
Gary Leff Expert Opinion
According to travel expert Gary Leff, founder of View from the Wing, “American AAdvantage is a powerhouse program with a vast network and diverse earning opportunities. While fuel surcharges can be a drawback, the program’s strengths lie in its extensive reach and the potential for valuable elite status benefits.”
3. Delta SkyMiles
Delta SkyMiles, the frequent flyer program of Delta Air Lines, is a prominent player in the loyalty program landscape.
It boasts a substantial network of destinations, a robust selection of partners, and a range of benefits tailored to different levels of engagement.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extensive network of destinations, including numerous international routes through partnerships with SkyTeam alliance members. | Award pricing can be variable and sometimes expensive, especially for premium cabin redemptions and popular routes. |
| Varied ways to earn miles: flying with Delta or partners, utilizing co-branded credit cards, dining at participating restaurants, and more. | Award availability can be limited, particularly for saver-level awards, making it harder to find desirable redemption options. |
| SkyMiles Medallion elite status offers valuable perks like complimentary upgrades, priority boarding, and waived baggage fees. | No published award chart, meaning award prices can change without notice and can be difficult to predict. |
| User-friendly digital platforms, including website and mobile app, for managing accounts and booking award travel. | |
| Strong focus on customer service and personalized experiences for SkyMiles members. |
Best For
- Frequent flyers who value a vast network of destinations and appreciate the extensive reach provided by SkyTeam alliance partners.
- Travelers who prioritize a premium travel experience and are willing to invest in earning SkyMiles Medallion elite status.
- Individuals who frequently fly on Delta Air Lines and can take full advantage of the program’s benefits and perks.
- Consumers who actively use Delta co-branded credit cards and engage with SkyMiles partners to accelerate their mileage accrual.
Ben Schlappig Expert Opinion
According to travel expert Ben Schlappig, founder of One Mile at a Time, “Delta SkyMiles can be a rewarding program for travelers who prioritize a premium experience and are willing to invest in achieving elite status. While award pricing can be dynamic, the program’s extensive network and emphasis on customer service make it a valuable option for frequent Delta flyers.”
4. Southwest Rapid Rewards
Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards program stands out for its unique approach to frequent flyer rewards.
Unlike traditional programs that rely on miles, Rapid Rewards uses points for both earning and redeeming rewards.
This system emphasizes simplicity and flexibility, making it a favorite among many travelers.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No blackout dates for reward flights, meaning you can use your points for any available seat on any Southwest flight. | Limited partner airlines compared to other major U.S. carriers. |
| Points don’t expire as long as you earn points every 24 months through qualifying activities. | Primarily focused on domestic travel, with fewer international options. |
| Straightforward earning and redemption system, with points values directly tied to fare costs. | No traditional award charts, making it difficult to determine the exact value of points for different flights. |
| Companion Pass perk allows a designated companion to fly with you for free (excluding taxes and fees) after meeting certain requirements. | A-List and A-List Preferred elite status tiers offer fewer perks compared to other airline programs. |
| No change fees for flights booked with points or cash, providing flexibility for travel plans. |
Best For
- Frequent Southwest flyers who appreciate the airline’s no-frills approach and transparent reward system.
- Travelers who prioritize flexibility and want to avoid blackout dates or restrictions on reward flights.
- Individuals who frequently travel with a companion and can maximize the value of the Companion Pass.
- Budget-conscious travelers seeking value-driven reward redemptions without hidden fees or complicated rules.
Richard Kerr Expert Opinion
According to travel expert Richard Kerr, founder of The Points Guy, “Southwest Rapid Rewards is a program that prioritizes simplicity and flexibility, making it a great option for travelers who value transparency and ease of use. While it may lack some of the frills of other programs, its straightforward earning and redemption system, along with the valuable Companion Pass perk, make it a strong contender for frequent Southwest flyers.”
5. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan
Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan has consistently ranked among the top frequent flyer programs, garnering accolades for its generous earning rates, valuable rewards, and outstanding customer service.
Despite Alaska Airlines’ relatively smaller size compared to major U.S. carriers, its Mileage Plan offers significant value to members through its unique partnerships and award redemption options.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Generous mileage earning rates, especially for flights booked on Alaska Airlines and its partners. | Limited number of airline partners compared to major alliances like Oneworld, Star Alliance, or SkyTeam. |
| Miles can be redeemed for flights on a wide range of partner airlines, including some not affiliated with any major alliance. | Award availability for partner airlines can be less predictable and may require more flexibility when booking. |
| No blackout dates on Alaska Airlines flights, providing more flexibility for award travel. | Fuel surcharges on some partner airline award tickets can increase the out-of-pocket cost for redemptions. |
| Excellent customer service reputation, with knowledgeable agents and responsive support channels. | Fewer elite status benefits compared to some other major airline programs. |
| MVP Gold 75K elite status holders enjoy valuable perks like free upgrades, bonus miles, and lounge access. | |
| Unique “Famous Companion Fare” allows members to bring a companion for a discounted fare after achieving MVP Gold status. |
Best For
- Frequent flyers who value generous mileage earning rates and appreciate the ability to redeem miles for flights on a wide range of partner airlines.
- Travelers who prioritize flexibility and want to avoid blackout dates when booking award travel on Alaska Airlines.
- Individuals who frequently fly on Alaska Airlines and can maximize the value of the “Famous Companion Fare” and MVP elite status perks.
- Consumers who actively seek out and take advantage of the Mileage Plan’s frequent promotions and bonus mileage offers.
Tim Winship Expert Opinion
According to travel expert Tim Winship, former editor-at-large for SmarterTravel, “Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan is a hidden gem among frequent flyer programs. Its generous earning rates, valuable rewards, and outstanding customer service make it a top choice for savvy travelers who know how to maximize its benefits.”
6. JetBlue TrueBlue
JetBlue’s TrueBlue program is known for its customer-centric approach, offering a unique blend of simplicity and flexibility.
It has undergone significant changes recently, moving from a traditional points-based system to a “tiles” system where members earn tiles for spending on JetBlue and partner services.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple and transparent earning structure: Earn tiles based on spending, not just on flights. | Limited partner network compared to major airlines, restricting earning opportunities outside of JetBlue flights. |
| “Perks You Pick” allows members to choose the benefits that matter most to them. | Award flights can be pricey, especially during peak travel times or for premium cabins. |
| Family Pooling: Combine points with up to six other members to redeem rewards faster. | Mosaic elite status qualification requires a significant amount of spending or flight segments. |
| Mosaic status offers valuable perks like free checked bags, early boarding, and expedited security. | Award availability can be limited, especially for popular routes and last-minute bookings. |
Best For
- Frequent JetBlue flyers who appreciate the personalized rewards and flexibility of the “Perks You Pick” system.
- Families or groups who can benefit from the Family Pooling feature to earn and redeem rewards together.
- Travelers who prioritize a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience and value JetBlue’s amenities and service.
- Individuals who want a straightforward and easy-to-understand loyalty program.
Scott Keyes Expert Opinion
According to travel expert Scott Keyes, founder of Scott’s Cheap Flights, “JetBlue TrueBlue is a great program for those who want a more personalized approach to travel rewards. The Perks You Pick system allows members to tailor their benefits to their individual needs and preferences, and the Family Pooling feature is a unique advantage for families or groups who travel together.”
What to Consider When Choosing a Frequent Flyer Program
Choosing the right frequent flyer program is crucial for maximizing your travel rewards and benefits. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation; the best program for you depends on your individual travel habits and preferences. Here are three key factors to consider when making your decision:
1. Do you live in a hub city?
A hub city is a major airport where an airline has a significant presence and operates many flights. If you live in or near a hub city, it often makes sense to join the frequent flyer program of the airline that uses that airport as a hub. This will give you access to a wider range of flight options and potentially more opportunities to earn and redeem miles.
For example, if you live in Atlanta, it would be beneficial to join Delta SkyMiles since Atlanta is Delta’s main hub. Similarly, if you live in Chicago, United MileagePlus would be a good choice as Chicago is a major United hub.
2. Where do you want to fly?
Your travel destinations play a significant role in choosing the right program. Consider the following:
Domestic vs. international
If you primarily travel domestically, a U.S.-based airline program like United MileagePlus or American AAdvantage might be suitable.
However, if you frequently fly internationally, consider programs with extensive global networks and partnerships, such as Delta SkyMiles (SkyTeam alliance) or United MileagePlus (Star Alliance).
Preferred airlines and alliances
If you have a preferred airline or alliance, joining their frequent flyer program is a logical choice. Alliance partnerships allow you to earn and redeem miles across multiple airlines, expanding your travel options.
3. Do you want to fly in premium cabins?
If you aspire to fly in business or first class, choosing the right program can help you achieve this goal faster.
Some programs offer better earning rates and redemption values for premium cabin travel.
Additionally, achieving elite status in a frequent flyer program can unlock perks like complimentary upgrades, making luxury travel more attainable.
Scott Mayerowitz Expert Opinion
Scott Mayerowitz, Executive Editorial Director at The Points Guy, emphasizes the importance of considering your personal travel patterns when choosing a frequent flyer program. “Think about where you live, where you like to travel, and how you like to travel,” he advises. “The answers to these questions will help you narrow down your choices and find the program that’s the best fit for you.”
4. How easy is it to earn miles?
The ease of earning miles can vary significantly between programs. Some programs offer generous base earning rates for flights, while others may require more spending or travel to accumulate miles. It’s essential to consider the following:
Earning rates
Compare the number of miles or points awarded per dollar spent on flights across different programs. Look for programs that offer bonus miles for booking certain fare classes or for achieving elite status.
Partner airlines and credit cards
Explore the program’s partnerships with other airlines and credit card issuers. Co-branded credit cards often provide substantial welcome bonuses and bonus miles for everyday spending, helping you rack up miles quickly.
Tiffany Funk Expert Opinion
“Earning miles isn’t just about flying,” says travel expert Tiffany Funk, founder of One Mile at a Time. “Look for programs with diverse earning opportunities, such as credit card spending, hotel stays, and online shopping portals.”
5. How easy is it to redeem miles for flights?
The value of a frequent flyer program lies in its ability to redeem miles for meaningful rewards. Consider the following:
Award availability
Some programs have better award availability than others, meaning it’s easier to find seats for the flights you want using miles. Research the program’s reputation for award availability and flexibility.
Blackout dates
Some programs impose blackout dates, restricting when you can redeem miles for certain flights. Look for programs with minimal or no blackout dates, especially if you have flexible travel plans.
Redemption fees
Be aware of any fees associated with redeeming miles for flights, such as booking fees or fuel surcharges. These fees can significantly increase the cost of your award travel.
6. Are there fees to check bags?
Checked bag fees can add up quickly, especially for frequent travelers.
Some frequent flyer programs, particularly those with co-branded credit cards, offer perks like waived checked bag fees for the cardholder and companions.
Consider the program’s policies on checked bag fees, especially if you typically check luggage when you fly.
7. Other benefits and perks
Beyond earning and redeeming miles, frequent flyer programs offer a variety of additional benefits that can enhance your travel experience:
Elite Status
As you accrue more miles or flight segments, you may qualify for elite status tiers within the program. Elite status typically unlocks a range of perks, including bonus miles, priority check-in and boarding, complimentary upgrades, waived baggage fees, and access to exclusive lounges.
Lounge Access
Airline lounges provide a haven of comfort and convenience during your travels. Enjoy complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, showers, and other amenities while waiting for your flight. Some programs offer lounge access as an elite status benefit, while others allow you to purchase access or use credit card benefits for entry.
Priority Boarding
Boarding the plane early ensures you have ample overhead bin space and can settle in before takeoff. Many frequent flyer programs offer priority boarding as an elite status perk or allow you to purchase early boarding.
Matthew Kepnes Expert Opinion
According to travel expert Matthew Kepnes, founder of Nomadic Matt, “Don’t underestimate the value of elite status and other perks offered by frequent flyer programs. These benefits can save you time, money, and hassle, making your travels smoother and more enjoyable.”
How to Maximize Your Rewards
1. Choose the right credit card
Selecting the right credit card can supercharge your mileage or point accumulation, allowing you to reach your travel goals faster. There are two primary types of credit cards to consider:
Co-branded credit cards
These cards are affiliated with a specific airline or hotel chain, enabling you to earn miles or points directly in that program. They often offer bonus miles for everyday spending and travel-related purchases, along with perks like free checked bags or priority boarding.
For instance, the United℠ Explorer Card earns miles in the United MileagePlus program, while the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card earns miles in the Delta SkyMiles program.
Travel rewards credit cards
These cards offer flexible rewards that can be redeemed for travel across various airlines and hotels. They often provide bonus points for travel purchases and other spending categories, and many come with additional benefits like travel insurance and airport lounge access.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a popular choice, earning Chase Ultimate Rewards® points that can be transferred to various airline and hotel partners or redeemed directly for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® travel portal.
Jason Steele Expert Opinion
According to credit card expert Jason Steele, founder of WalletHub, “The best travel rewards credit card for you depends on your spending habits and travel goals. Consider the sign-up bonus, ongoing rewards rate, annual fee, and additional benefits when making your decision.”
2. Take advantage of promotions and bonuses
Airlines and credit card issuers frequently offer promotions and bonuses that can accelerate your mileage or point earnings. These can include:
- Sign-up bonuses: Many credit cards offer generous welcome bonuses for new cardholders who meet specific spending requirements within a set time frame.
- Limited-time offers: Airlines may offer bonus miles for booking flights during specific periods or for flying to certain destinations.
- Partner promotions: Keep an eye out for promotions with hotel chains, car rental companies, and other partners that allow you to earn bonus miles for your spending.
By actively participating in these promotions, you can significantly boost your mileage or point balance and reach your travel goals sooner.
3. Stack your rewards
“Stacking” refers to combining different methods of earning rewards to maximize your gains. For example, you could:
- Use a co-branded credit card: Earn miles or points for everyday spending and travel purchases.
- Fly with the airline: Earn miles for your flights.
- Stay at partner hotels: Earn miles for your hotel stays.
- Rent cars through partners: Earn miles for your car rentals.
- Shop through online portals: Earn bonus miles for purchases made through airline shopping portals.
4. Join multiple programs
Don’t limit yourself to a single frequent flyer program. By joining multiple programs, you can diversify your earning opportunities and take advantage of different airline partnerships and promotions.
For instance, you might earn miles in one program for domestic flights and in another program for international travel.
Stefan Krasowski Expert Opinion
“Joining multiple programs can be a smart strategy for frequent travelers,” says travel expert Stefan Krasowski, founder of Rapid Travel Chai. “It allows you to take advantage of the strengths of each program and maximize your overall rewards.”
5. Track your miles and points
Keep track of your mileage and point balances across all your frequent flyer and credit card accounts.
This will help you stay on top of your rewards, avoid expiration, and make informed decisions about how to redeem them.
Several online tools and apps can help you track your miles and points automatically, such as AwardWallet and TripIt Pro.
6. Be flexible with your travel dates
Flexibility is key when it comes to redeeming miles or points for flights. Award availability can vary depending on the date, time, and destination.
If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you’re more likely to find award seats for the flights you want.
Consider traveling during off-peak seasons or on less popular days of the week to increase your chances of finding award availability.
Summer Hull Expert Opinion
“Being flexible with your travel dates can open up a world of possibilities for award travel,” advises travel expert Summer Hull, founder of Mommy Points. “Don’t be afraid to try different dates or consider alternative airports to find the best deals.”
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the “best” frequent flyer program is the one that best aligns with your individual travel habits and goals. There’s no single program that suits everyone, so it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each option and consider how they fit into your lifestyle.
Take the time to research different programs, compare their earning and redemption options, and assess their additional benefits. Consider your home airport, preferred airlines and alliances, travel destinations, and desired rewards. Don’t hesitate to join multiple programs to diversify your earning opportunities and maximize your rewards.
By choosing the right credit card, taking advantage of promotions, and stacking your rewards, you can supercharge your mileage or point accumulation and reach your travel goals faster. Remember, flexibility is key. Be open to adjusting your travel dates and exploring different redemption options to get the most value out of your rewards.
FAQs
How do I choose the best frequent flyer program for me?
Consider your travel habits, goals, and preferences. Research different programs and compare their benefits.
Can I join multiple frequent flyer programs?
Absolutely! It’s a great way to diversify your earning opportunities and maximize rewards.
Do frequent flyer miles expire?
It depends on the program. Some miles expire after a certain period of inactivity, while others never expire.
What are the best ways to earn frequent flyer miles?
Flying, using co-branded credit cards, staying at partner hotels, renting cars, and shopping through online portals.
How can I redeem frequent flyer miles?
Flights, upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals, merchandise, and experiences.
