Frequent Flyer Miles 101 (2024)

06/09/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Some Final Words...

Well, it's the good news and bad news piece.

Good news: My (and a friend's) other blog, The Travel Game, is doing great. Starting off with a base of readers and competent developer definitely helped. I'm spending a lot of time over there.

Bad news: Given the time that I'm spending over
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/some-final-words/

Well, it's the good news and bad news piece. Good news: My (and a friend's) other blog, The Travel Game, is doing great. Starting off with a base of readers and

30/07/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Underrated Cities To Visit: Baltimore

And we're back! A little bit later than I expected, but back nonetheless.

Every so often, I like to do something different and talk about individual cities instead of the miles and points that you can use to get there. Today, I wanted to look at one of the country's most
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/underrated-cities-to-visit-baltimore/

And we're back! A little bit later than I expected, but back nonetheless. Every so often, I like to do something different and talk about individual cities

06/07/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Out Of Office Notice

Hi all.

I'm going to be out of town for the next couple of weeks. There will continue to be posts on LVA Travel, so keep up there.

https://frequentflyermiles101.com/out-of-office-notice-11/

Hi all. I'm going to be out of town for the next couple of weeks. There will continue to be posts on LVA Travel, so keep up there.

24/06/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Air Canada, Discover And Posts From The Week

Hmm, let's see, what's going on these days?

You could be an unfortunate Air Canada customer who got locked on the plane. Anxiety disorder or not, I really wouldn't want to wake up on an empty plane. And how did they miss a passenger?

Certain Discover cards offer 5% cash back bonus
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/air-canada-discover-and-posts-from-the-week/

A few notes from the industry this week as well as some of what we've been publishing at LVA Travel.

10/06/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Just How Loyal Is Your Loyalty Program?

Some of what we've published at LVA Travel:
Cash back shopping is a way to make your purchases work for you. Here's how it works.
Will your points and miles expire? Take a look at the expiration policies of some major companies. Added bonus: a picture of a monkey looking into
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/just-how-loyal-is-your-loyalty-program/

Some of what we've published at LVA Travel: Cash back shopping is a way to make your purchases work for you. Here's how it works. Will your points and miles

05/06/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Closing Old Credit Cards (And Some Upcoming Changes To This Blog)

Note: At the bottom of this article, I discuss some upcoming changes to the blog.

I came across an interesting article on CNBC today about closing credit cards. They offered a piece of advice that I don't see often but is often correct.
Should You Close Old Credit Cards?

You've got that piece
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/closing-old-credit-cards-and-some-upcoming-changes-to-this-blog/

Note: At the bottom of this article, I discuss some upcoming changes to the blog. I came across an interesting article on CNBC today about closing credit cards.

29/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Forget Previous Years' Empty Threats: This Summer Might Actually Be A Travel Disaster

Every year around this time, a media outlet or two writes an article predicting an upcoming "summer from hell," predicated on record passenger volumes and airport staffing shortages. And while summers are definitely tougher when it comes to wait times, we can generally fumble our way through. In fact, the
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/forget-previous-years-empty-threats-this-summer-might-actually-be-a-travel-disaster/

Every year around this time, a media outlet or two writes an article predicting an upcoming "summer from hell," predicated on record passenger volumes and

28/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Radisson Rewards Mid-Year Promotion: 3,000 Bonus Points Per Night

Radisson Rewards, the loyalty program for the Radisson Collection and six other brands, has announced its mid-year promotion. It’s pretty straightforward and lasts from May 27 — August 31. Starting with your second stay, you’ll earn 3,000 bonus points per night. It’s not the best promotion that I’ve ever seen from
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/radisson-rewards-mid-year-promotion-3000-bonus-points-per-night/

Radisson Rewards, the loyalty program for the Radisson Collection and six other brands, has announced its mid-year promotion. It's pretty straightforward and

24/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Clear: Your Accelerated Fast-Pass Through Security

I was flying out of Boston’s Logan Airport today when I noticed an addition to the TSA checkpoint: The airport is rolling out Clear lanes in Terminal A. I’ve talked about Clear before, but here’s a quick reminder, since it’s now closing in on four dozen locations.
What Is Clear?
If TSA
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/clear-your-accelerated-fast-pass-through-security/

I was flying out of Boston's Logan Airport today when I noticed an addition to the TSA checkpoint: The airport is rolling out Clear lanes in Terminal A. I've

21/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - American Airlines Lowers Some Bag Fees?

Well, this is something that you don't see every day. According to the Dallas Business Journal, American Airlines is lowering some bag fees. Don't get too excited if you are an everyday passenger, though. These fees are only on specialty oversized items such as certain musical instruments and sporting equipment.
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/american-airlines-lowers-some-bag-fees/

Well, this is something that you don't see every day. According to the Dallas Business Journal, American Airlines is lowering some bag fees. Don't get too

19/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Earn Hilton Honors Points With Lyft

I've had an email from Hilton and Lyft sitting in my inbox for a few days, but it's been a busy weekend, so I finally got around to opening it today. It turned out to be a promotional link between the two, so I'm glad that I did.

As you
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/earn-hilton-honors-points-with-lyft/

I've had an email from Hilton and Lyft sitting in my inbox for a few days, but it's been a busy weekend, so I finally got around to opening it today. It turned

14/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Delta SkyMiles Summer Flash Sale

Do you like it hot? If you don’t, then skip to the next post. But if the summer heat of the southeast appeals to you, then I’ve got a cheap way to get you there.

Delta just announced a SkyMiles summer flash sale to destinations in the southeast. A flash sale is one
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/delta-skymiles-summer-flash-sale/

Do you like it hot? If you don't, then skip to the next post. But if the summer heat of the southeast appeals to you, then I've got a cheap way to get you there

14/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Choice Hotels Promotion: $50 Gift Card For Two Stays

Choice Hotels? Trust me, you know them. The owner of brands such as Comfort Inn, Sleep Inn or Econolodge, Choice is one of the leaders in the budget and midscale segments.

This month, the chain has brought back one of its most popular promotions. Stay twice and receive a $50 gift card. Well, enough
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/choice-hotels-promotion-50-gift-card-for-two-stays/

Choice Hotels? Trust me, you know them. The owner of brands such as Comfort Inn, Sleep Inn or Econolodge, Choice is one of the leaders in the budget and

10/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - 250 Free United Airlines Miles From MyPoints

I've talked about MyPoints before but, after having gotten a reminder that they are offering 250 miles to sign up, I thought that it is worth mentioning again.
Free United MileagePlus Miles from MyPoints

MyPoints is a site that gives you rewards for taking surveys, shopping online, etc. Rewards typically come in
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/250-free-united-airlines-miles-from-mypoints/

I've talked about MyPoints before but, after having gotten a reminder that they are offering 250 miles to sign up, I thought that it is worth mentioning again.

08/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Delta Offers "Reclaim My Status" If Your Elite Level Tumbles

As we all know, life happens occasionally. And if your event results in diminished travel, it could have an impact on your elite status (not to mention numerous other consequences, which are best explored at a different blog). Until today, no network carrier had a plan in place to help.
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/delta-offers-reclaim-my-status-if-your-elite-level-tumbles/

Did your elite status lapse for a year? Delta is offering you a way to keep it.

07/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - IHG Relaunches its Accelerate Promotion

I love the term “loyalty program.” Kind of makes you seem like the merchant is giving you something for having done lots of business with them. It isn’t. But really, would you participate if they called it a "promotion to influence future travel decisions?"

IHG Accelerate

Here’s where it gets interesting: The
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/ihg-relaunches-its-accelerate-promotion/

I love the term "loyalty program." Kind of makes you seem like the merchant is giving you something for having done lots of business with them. It isn't. But

05/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Hilton Summer Promotion: One Step Up, One Back

Hilton has announced its summer promotion, called Get More. It's similar to Hilton's normal double points offers, but throws in a couple of twists. One is good, the other, not so much. The promotion runs from May 6 - September 8. Only base points are doubled. Any bonus points from
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/hilton-summer-promotion-one-step-up-one-back/

Hilton has announced its summer promotion, called Get More. It's similar to Hilton's normal double points offers, but throws in a couple of twists. One is good,

04/05/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Southwest Credit Cards Put Companion Pass Back Into Play

Two credit cards. $168. A year of free flights. How tough can it be? Southwest Airlines has increased its credit card sign-up bonuses,* and they're back up to a level where you'll want to look at them.
The Southwest Companion Pass

Southwest Airlines offers the most valuable perk in the airline business:
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/southwest-credit-cards-put-companion-pass-back-into-play/

Two credit cards. $168. A year of free flights. How tough can it be? Southwest Airlines has increased its credit card sign-up bonuses,* and they're back up to a

30/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Paying For Luxury Versus Nickel And Diming

So two pieces of news caught my eye this week. One reflects the ultimate in luxury, while the other is just penny-pinching annoying.
Four Seasons And The New Jet

Because sometimes, a Four Seasons hotel room isn't luxurious enough. And let's face it, the old jet was looking a bit outdated.

If you
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/paying-for-luxury-versus-nickel-and-diming/

So two pieces of news caught my eye this week. One reflects the ultimate in luxury, while the other is just penny-pinching annoying. Four Seasons And The New

28/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Best Western Rewards And Credit Card

On the weekends, I try to do something a bit different than what I did during the week. It may be something about the industry, or interesting events from the previous few days.

For hotel points, I generally talk about the major plans. So today, I'm going to talk about a
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/best-western-rewards-and-credit-card/

On the weekends, I try to do something a bit different than what I did during the week. It may be something about the industry, or interesting events from the

25/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Can Airlines Fix Their Own Service Issues? Yes, but...

Traveling in coach is like visiting the doctor: A best case scenario is that nothing happens. You want your flight to be forgettable. It's sad that we've gotten to this point, and the airlines can take credit for much of the decline in service standards. Recently, I began to think
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/can-airlines-fix-their-own-service-issues-yes-but/

Traveling in coach is like visiting the doctor: A best case scenario is that nothing happens. You want your flight to be forgettable. It's sad that we've gotten

21/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Virtual Disney: The Best Of The 3D And 4D Rides

The Walt Disney World theme parks are obviously known for their rides.It doesn't matter whether we're talking about slow ones, like "It's a Small World," or roller coasters, such as "Space Mountain." They tend to do everything well.

Over the past several years, however, I have noticed a shift in the
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/virtual-disney-the-best-of-the-3d-and-4d-rides/

The Walt Disney World theme parks are obviously known for their rides.It doesn't matter whether we're talking about slow ones, like "It's a Small World," or

13/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Getting Free Money From The Airlines For Volunteering

This morning, I packed up my family of four to go from Boston to Orlando, by way of Atlanta (As the old saying goes, it doesn't matter whether you're going to heaven or hell. You still have to change planes in Atlanta.). And, to my utter delight, there are only
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/getting-free-money-from-the-airlines-for-volunteering/

On a full flight? Here's a way that you can take advantage of it and earn some cash.

13/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Out of Office Notice

Hi all,

I'm going to be spending a week or so away, so posts will be few, far between or non-existent. Have a great week!
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/out-of-office-notice-10/

Hi all, I'm going to be spending a week or so away, so posts will be few, far between or non-existent. Have a great week!

09/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Airline Lounges: Your Airport Escape

Let's face it: Airports, particularly American airports, are not fun places to hang out. There are rude people, little comfort and exorbitant prices. But having access to a lounge can make the time fly by.
Airport Lounges
There are two types of airport lounges. First, you have those run by the airlines
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/airline-lounges-your-airport-escape/

Let's face it: Airports, particularly American airports, are not fun places to hang out. There are rude people, little comfort and exorbitant prices. But having

05/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Discover Deals Are Dead

I'll end the week with some sad news, although it really isn't news, since it happened six months ago. Discover Deals are dead.*
Discover Deals Have Ended

At the end of October, Discover folded its "Discover Deals (DD)" program. DD was a cash-back shopping portal that gave you money back for making
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/discover-deals-are-dead/

I'll end the week with some sad news, although it really isn't news, since it happened six months ago. Discover Deals are dead.* Discover Deals Have Ended At

02/04/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Finding The Best Seat On Your Flight

One of the most common questions that I see about flights is regarding which seat to book. Nobody wants to get stuck in the middle seat in front of the lavatory, of course, but how do you know which one has less legroom or limited seat recline.

Several months ago, I
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/finding-the-best-seat-on-your-flight/

One of the most common questions that I see about flights is regarding which seat to book. Nobody wants to get stuck in the middle seat in front of the lavatory

31/03/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Wow Airlines Shuts Down Operations

Last week, the inevitable happened, as Wow Airlines announced that it was ceasing operations. It happened overnight, as passengers woke up to a notice on the website. Over 1,000 passengers were stranded and advised to ask for "rescue fares" from other carriers. Here's what we know:
Wow Airlines

Wow was an "ultra-low
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/wow-airlines-shuts-down-operations/

Last week, the inevitable happened, as Wow Airlines announced that it was ceasing operations. It happened overnight, as passengers woke up to a notice on the

28/03/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - More Fun In The World Of Travel...

I haven't been posting as frequently, as I make some changes to the site, but that doesn't stop the world of travel from going on. Here are a few of the fun things that I have missed.
Wrong Way BA, ftw...
A British Airways flight caused a little extra Umweltverschmutzung when it
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/more-fun-in-the-world-of-travel/

I haven't been posting as frequently, as I make some changes to the site, but that doesn't stop the world of travel from going on. Here are a few of the fun

25/03/2019

New post added at Frequent Flyer Miles 101: Learning the Mileage Game - Should You Buy Miles From United?

Well, maybe.

Selling miles is an easy way for airlines to make some quick cash. Since there is no governor on mileage inflation, if too many miles get sold, they'll simply raise amount of miles that a ticket costs.

Apparently, it's that time of year, since United is winding down a mileage
https://frequentflyermiles101.com/should-you-buy-miles-from-united/

Well, maybe. Selling miles is an easy way for airlines to make some quick cash. Since there is no governor on mileage inflation, if too many miles get sold,

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