Are you booking your flight using your points or money?

More than 30 years ago, the flyer programs and the airline industry underwent many changes. There is an excellent way to get big rewards or waste time collecting points you will not use. But with today’s programs, you will look at it differently from those a few years ago. It can be the best thing or not where; it will depend on the type of traveler you are. When flying in an economy class, you will benefit less than before. But there are changes on the horizon where there are some of the best ways to earn airline miles.

Get premium travel

When you book a premium travel like the first class or business flights, you will get points and miles, which makes sense. It is the same as expensive luxury hotels where getting points can be better than paying thousands of dollars per night. When you get points for premium travel, it is way better than cash, where you have to compare the rates and ensure that you get good value for your points.

Save money

Most travel experts say you can save miles for the expensive redemption value, but it will tell you the opposite. You must do what is good for you, even if it means getting points when cash prices are low. When your main goal is to save money, you must use your points when buying a ticket. Some people only like to fly first class or stay in an expensive resort; others prefer to use points to reduce expenses.

Points are expiring

When you let your points and miles expire, it will be the worst thing you can do to your points. Many loyalty programs and member rewards do not use a no-expiration policy, and they can expire after 36 months of inactivity. You must earn or redeem miles within this cycle to use your hard-earned points. When your points and miles are near expiring, getting them will make sense, even if it is a rate.

When to pay cash

There are better ideas than miles and points to save money on travel. Sometimes, when you are booking a trip with money, it is way cheaper. Paying cash is direct and beats looking for the best loyalty programs for the ideal deals. Book a hotel or flight without thinking about blackout dates or inventory restrictions. Season travelers like cheap airfare and hotel packages that are worth it over traditional awards. There are some scenarios where booking travel using your money will make sense compared to points.

Get elite status goals.

When you are booking travel with money, it makes sense when you want to meet your elite status goals. Some airlines will not consider awarding flights when you get an elite status requirement. When you need more hotel nights or flights, booking using your money, other than using points, will make sense. The benefits of getting an elite status can exceed the money you spend booking a flight.

Both cash and points are the best ways to save money on travel. Some points are helpful during peak season or premium travel experiences. Using them on your travel budget will provide the best way to spend less on tickets and hotels.

Gennaro Murazik