Travel rewards points and miles are a valuable currency for frequent travelers and vacationers. Most major airlines, hotels, and credit cards offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points or miles for your spending and travel. You can then redeem those points or miles for free flights, hotel nights, car rentals, and other perks.
The key to maximizing travel rewards is to earn as many points and miles as possible from multiple sources and redeem them strategically. Here are some of the best ways to boost your rewards balances quickly.
Sign up for the right credit cards that offer generous sign-up bonuses and rewards for your everyday spending. Some cards offer 50,000 points or more just for signing up and meeting a minimum spend requirement. Use those cards for all your purchases to rack up points on everything from groceries and gas to dining and entertainment.
Link your credit cards to airline and hotel loyalty programs to earn points and miles with every purchase. Most major airlines and hotel chains partner with one or more credit card issuers so you can double dip. Check with your preferred carriers to see which cards offer the most valuable point transfers and transfers.
Take advantage of bonus offers and promotions whenever possible. Most travel rewards programs frequently run special promotions awarding extra points or miles for purchases with select retailers, booking hotels or rental cars, or flying certain routes. Sign up for newsletters to stay on top of the latest offers.
Consider opening a travel rewards checking or savings account. Some accounts offer high rates of return as well as opportunities to earn airline miles or points with each debit card purchase or direct deposit. Compare accounts to find the best rates and rewards.
Look for ways to earn points and miles that don’t require spending money. Many programs offer points or miles for simple actions like watching promotional videos, taking surveys, shopping through their online portals, or following social media accounts. These activities are an easy way to boost your balances at no cost.
Redeem your points and miles for the best value. Don’t redeem for gift cards, merchandise, or other less valuable options. Save your rewards for free flights, hotel nights, and experiences. Compare the points or miles needed for different redemptions to get the best deal. Some programs offer bonus value for certain redemptions.
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