Category Archives: Airline Miles Tips

Tips for Keeping your Miles from Expiring

If you plan to keep a lot of miles in your repertoire, you know that you are going to have some problems with keeping them current and keeping them from expiring. Many people don’t know that their miles expire and that they expire far more quickly than you expect. Using up your miles before they expire is always an option, but there are plenty more options that you might want to consider as well, especially if you are trying to save them.

Keep Track of Your Expiration Dates

Knowing the expiration dates of your miles will help you to keep track of them. Put all of the information that you can into a spreadsheet or at least make a reminder for yourself. Most programs have miles that expire after a year and a half of dormancy. Dormancy means that you have earned or spent any miles.

Know Where To Spend Your Money

If you are using a credit card to earn miles, you have to regularly spend money to earn your points. If you are trying to save money, it only takes a few dollars to keep your points active.

Learn which hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, or stores will earn you miles so that you can earn the quickly and easily and don’t have to risk losing your miles.

Be Smart About Choosing a Card in the First Place

If you are smart about choosing a card, you won’t have to worry about expiring points quite as much. If a card works with you, you will be able to get all that you want out of the card without having to worry about accruing debt. The best cards will actually save you money in the long run.

Buy Miles or Points

If you are really at the end of the road and you aren’t sure what to do, you can always buy more miles or points. This might be one of the easier ways to keep your points and miles active as it is easy to do. If you are interested in buying miles, learn more about how we offer a simple and safe way to do so.

Note that there will be a minimum purchase requirement for those miles and points as well.

When making a decision to sign up for a card, you want to read all you can and do enough research so that you feel confident keep your miles active.

If you pay attention to your account, make smart purchases, and research you card before you sign up for it, you will have great success keeping your miles from expiring.

Tips for Booking Your Vacation in 2018

Planning to take a trip in 2018? It is a great year to do so! There is a ton going on around the world and it is the perfect time to make memories. However, you do have to be smart about when, where, and how you book your vacations. If you are smart, you will be able to take better trips to create even more memories – or you may able to get another vacation out of the year.

Here are some of our favorite tips for booking your vacations in 2018:

Plan in Advance

Planning as far in advance as you can will help you to go at your ideal time, if you absolutely have to plan it all out. Certain destinations will book around the more popular times of the year, so if you dream about spending New Year’s in NYC or going to Disney in June, you want to plan as far in advance as you can.

Or Be Spontaneous

If you have more flexibility, you can consider going somewhere at the last minute. This often will get you the best deals on hotels, and you won’t have to worry about “overplanning” anything.

Think About Packages

One thing you might want to do is purchase a package deal. Getting a hotel and a flight packaged together will save you money in many instances. Sometimes, you’ll get the flight free if you book with a certain hotel. These aren’t always the best option, so you will have to do quite a bit of research on your own to crunch the numbers.

Buy Airline Miles

Another great option? Use the miles that you have with your credit card. With your credit card rewards program, you will get access to some of the best rates available. If you don’t have enough miles, you can always buy miles and use them – which will still often be less than buying an airline ticket outright.

Look Off the Beaten Path

If you want to go somewhere that a celebrity recently traveled, you probably will have to pay more than if you are going somewhere a little bit left of center. The most popular locations will always have high price tags because there will always be people who are willing to pay it. Going one town over or looking on the outskirts of town will help you to save some money, and maybe experience something more authentic.

The most important thing to do is relax and not stress out of your vacation bookings. When you do this, there is a chance that you will make a mistake.

Unique ways to earn airline miles and credit card rewards in 2018

Are you looking to earn more airline miles and credit card rewards in 2018? As many of us plan our financial futures and some of our “2018 bucket list” items, it seems apparent that the two aren’t always in sync with each other. However, there are some unique ways you can tackle both – by earning airline miles and credit card rewards at the same time. Here are a few new ways to work into your daily spending:

Change Someone’s Life

One of the most unique ways to earn airline miles or credit card rewards for a small fee. Kiva.org is an international lender where you can loan money to a pre-screened applicant from countries in need. The borrower pays you back over time and while Kiva does take a low rate, you are still doing good with your money, earning points, and getting it all back in the end. Make sure to read the fine print because it isn’t 100% guaranteed, so you want to do some soul searching and see if this is an option for you.

Enjoy Some Culture

Audience Rewards is a fantastic website that allows you to earn and win miles when booking tickets to some of the most popular shows on Broadway right now. Audience Rewards is a great source for people who see many Broadway shows because you can shop with those points or use them toward other tickets – so it is definitely something to consider.

Utilize Things You’ll Use Anyway

Even if you are trying to save money, it is likely that you will be purchasing food, hiring a babysitter, or using a contractor that you’d traditionally pay with cash. Instead, ask if you can pay them using a credit card, through Venmo or Paypal, or some other form of online payment. You can connect these accounts to your credit card and reap the rewards.

Search Before Buying

Everything from purchasing flowers to ordering take-out to watching television can earn you additional points. Before making any purchase, make sure to do a search to see if you can get a better deal or a deal that will earn you points.

Need points or credit card rewards? While it might seem like extra work now, eventually doing these things will become second nature and you will be able to do it automatically without seemingly any extra work.

Ways to earn frequent flyer miles without a credit card

Whether you are too young or you have been burned by a credit card before, not everyone wants to apply for a credit card just to earn miles. However, you still might have the dream to go somewhere exotic or beautiful without having to pay for all of the miles – and you can.

Here are a few different options that you have:

Online Shopping

So you might need a credit card to go online shopping, but you could also have a debit card – so online shopping can still work out for you (or work twice if you do want to use a credit card). Most airlines will have shopping portals where you can make your purchases to earn bonus airlines. Typically, you won’t pay anything extra and you’ll still gain miles.

Sometimes, the items will cost more on this website, so you do want to shop around and see whether or not it is worth it – just remember that you are getting miles on top of that.

Go To Restaurants

Some airlines will offer extra points if you dine at specific restaurants. You can sign up online and link a credit card to that restaurant. You can pay your bill (which you will do anyway) and earn miles. Of course, this does require a credit card.

Subscriptions

Some services, like Netflix, will offer you bonus airline miles just for signing up! While you shouldn’t sign up for things just because they offer miles, it is certainly something to consider.

Survey Says

While you are lounging on the couch, you might want to start using that time wisely. There are plenty of online survey sites, like eMiles and e-Rewards, where you can get points for taking surveys – mostly about your shopping habits.

Debit Cards

If you aren’t a fan of credit cards, you probably have a debit card. Since most people do prefer to use cards over cash, you may want to consider it. A debit card cannot get you into nearly as much trouble as a credit card does and you still get the miles that you want. Often, you have to go directly through the airline to get this kind of card, though sometimes banks will offer specials.

No matter what, the best way to get anywhere with your miles is to ensure that you use your miles properly and are smart about earning them. Only do what makes sense and always shop around for your miles to see what deal is the best.

Is it Possible to Get the Miles from Deceased Family Members

It is morbid to think about, but if you have a family member that has passed away and amassed a large amount of airline miles, you may want to use them. It is something to consider, even if it does seem a bit morbid – they spent time earning them, so someone should use them.

Is it possible to get airline miles from a deceased family member?

It Is – If You Have Your Affairs in Order

It is possible to get miles from a deceased family member if everyone has their information correct and you get a little lucky. For most airlines, it is up to the discretion of the airlines and can even vary depending on who you talk to about it all. It might cost you some time and effort, but if there are a lot of miles at stake, it is worth it. Make sure to read the fine print, because there are mileage transfer fees for some airlines.

Depending on the airline, there is a special form that needs to be completed and sent back along with a death certificate. Sometimes, you can fill the form out online and send the death certificate separately, sometimes it has to all be together.

Note that no airline is going to do this automatically – you will have to do your own research and do most of the footwork by yourself. You’ll want to act quickly, in any case.

Know Your Airline’s Policy

Each airline has a different policy. Here is an overview for some of the top airlines, but know that they can change at any time.

American Airlines: AAdvantage mileage credit is non-transferable. However, the airline has made exceptions in certain cases. Mostly, this is covered on a case by case basis and does require quite a bit of work on your part. Fees do apply.

Delta Air Lines: According to Delta, miles are not the property of any member. Miles may not be transferred after death.

United Airlines: Accrued mileage and certificates are not transferable after death. However, this another airline that will consider transfers on a case by case basis. Sometimes, the transfer is accepted with a $75 fee and valid death certificate.

Southwest: Points are not allowed to be transferred after death. Within 24 months (2 years) of the last active date, the points will officially disappear. However, there are some questions about whether anyone who has access to those points can use them – it may be worth a shot.4

At the end of the day, you are at the mercy of the airline. Your best bet, if there are quite a few miles there, is to just try and see what happens.

Is Booking First Class Flights Worth It?

When it comes to flying, almost everyone would prefer to fly first class. We’ve all flown economy class before and many of us have had the same problems: cramped, uncomfortable seats, people too close for comfort, yelling kids, crying babies, and a general lack of any sort of peace. While all of those problems can’t be mitigated by flying first class, many of them can be. Once some of the problems are gone, you will see that you will be able to deal with the others quite well.

Want a few more reasons to book first class flights? Here are some of our favorite reasons:

1. You need to get work done.

Many people try to fly and get work done at the same time. We feel like we need to use the time, especially if we are about to take a few days off. Working in an economy seat is almost impossible. There are (very rarely) working outlets, the lap desk is small, and you can’t really put your arms out to type.

First class is likely nicer than your actual office. You’ll get power outlets, fast internet, and even room to spread your elbows out and get to work.

Even better, if there are people in first class with you, you may be presented with a networking opportunity that hadn’t been around before.

2. If you are trying to relax.

Vacations are supposed to be restful. If you are going on vacation and want to start it off on the right foot (or continue it when the vacation is over), you absolutely have to book first class. You will get more perks, better people, and you may even be more relaxed on the airplane than you are in your own car.

Even better – you might find people who live in your destination or go there frequently and you can get some insider tips.

3. For the Perks

If you are in an airline rewards program, buying first class tickets is going to net you more rewards points than booking somewhere else. If you are using your points for something special (programs that you can only get through using points) this is a quick way to add everything up.

Even better, you can use your perks to then get other first class flights – it is a cyclical situation in which whatever you do helps you later. And once you get the taste of first class, you won’t want to go anywhere else.

Where will you fly when you book your first class flights?

Best Ways to Find Airline Deals

Flying in an airplane is one of those things that almost everyone does, so you will hear quite a few different opinions about how to get the best airline deals. However, there are only a few methods that are proven to work each and every time – they are the methods that work no matter what type of flight you are looking for – here are a few tips for finding the best airline deals:

Know What to Ignore

The first thing you need to do is know that many people will have gotten lucky with one website or one tip, but you probably won’t be able to replicate it. There is no cheaper “day” to buy airfare and there is no concrete evidence that searching while incognito works, and you don’t get better deals depending where you search. Sometimes these tips will work, but not always.

Pay Attention to Social Media

Sometimes the airlines and even travel agencies will run special promotions where you are able to sign up for special deals, put in a promo code, or just get a certain percentage off without really having to do anything. This is a great opportunity for people who know that they want to go away, but are open to a few different locations.

Get Alerts

Similarly, you can sign up for alerts from the social media of airlines or from the airlines themselves so that you know when there is a promo. This comes in handy for people who don’t go on social media all that often or those who like to fly with airlines who have short-period promos.

Be Flexible

If you can be flexible with your travel time, you will likely end up with a much better deal. If you can fly during the week, or take a flight that is a little bit earlier or later than most people would like, you will get a great deal that you can’t refuse.

Use Airline Miles

If you fly frequently (or you would like to), try to sign up for a credit card that offers reward miles or points. This will allow you to get airline miles for your regular spending – just make sure you sign up for one that offers you the most in return for your chosen airline.

Check Budget Airlines First

If you don’t feel the need to fly in luxury, you can fly on a budget airline which will bring the price down even more. You won’t get the most comfortable ride, but for locations that aren’t that far away, you shouldn’t have a problem.

Most importantly, make sure that you always check for fees, taxes, and baggage prices so that you don’t end up paying more than you would on a better airline or on a better seat.

Easy Ways to Save on your Trip to Europe

Going to Europe can be extremely expensive, especially if you want to do all of the touristy things while you’re there. You want to save where you can, even if you do have the money, because that means that you can do more.

Not quite sure where to save money? Here are some tips:

Get Your Passport in Enough Time

If you don’t have your passport, that is a huge expense you want to consider. Aim to get your passport in enough time so that you don’t have to pay for expedited shipping. This will save you a few hundred dollars right off the bat.

Public Transportation is Key

Renting a car or using Uber might be a better way to travel in style, but it isn’t a good idea for your bank account. Instead, do some research about the local public transportation systems and use them. If worst comes to worst, make sure to pack a comfortable pair of shoes so that you can walk from place to place. In some instances, walking will be much, much quicker than driving anyway.

Be Flexible on Your Travel Dates

Since you are planning ahead, you should be able to have some flexibility in your travel dates. Be smart about it and plan to fly during the week instead of on the weekends – you’ll get a better rate that can save you a lot of money. You also want to consider different times of the day when flying.

Look for Package Deals

Though they get a bit of a bad reputation, sometimes package deals, where you get a free rental with a hotel or a free flight if you stay in a slightly pricier hotel, will work out better than buying everything on its own. You’ll have to do some math and figure it out for yourself, but it shouldn’t be that hard to do with a phone calculator and some online searching.

Use Airline Miles

One of the most expensive things you will buy for your trip to Europe will be your plane tickets. While no one wants to admit it, flying overseas can be expensive and can be one of the top reasons why someone will decide against going on a trip to Europe.

Consider signing up for a credit card that will give you enough credits so that you can get a ticket, at least in coach.

Most importantly – look for free things to do. That’s the best way to save and you’ll still get a great feeling for the country you travel to.

Making Sure You Pick the Right Business Card

Picking out a business credit card for your company can be difficult because you have to weigh the pros and cons of each one – and there will be pros and there will be cons. A lot of it has to do with your spending habits, business habits, and even what you do in your personal life.

Here are a few tips for picking a business credit card:

Know Fees

Almost every credit card has fees. You have to look through the paperwork you sign, sometimes reading into the find print, to see what exactly you are paying for when you sign up for a credit card. Know about yearly fees, interest rates, and even penalties for not using your card. You may want to check out late fees as well – some are much higher than others.

Amount

What is the limit of your credit card? Each card will go about finding a limit for you in a slightly different way. It is up to you to determine how much you need. When you are just starting out, you might feel like you need more, but that isn’t always available. Do your best to seek out cards that will give you what you need, but won’t allow you to overspend.

Benefits

Sometimes, certain carts will give you benefits that you might not get anywhere else. Airlines, hotels, restaurants, and more will give you access to their ‘premier’ spaces just by using your card. SOmetimes you’ll get a free upgrade on your room, free breakfast, free wi-fi, or just a more private space to hang out while you wait for a flight. These might not make a huge different for everyone, but some people will enjoy the little perks.

Earning Miles

Do you travel quite a bit for work? If so, earning miles through your credit card points could be a great way to save you some money. Make sure to pick a credit card that goes with your favorite airline (they don’t all work together) and focus on which cards give you the most rewards.

Some cards will give you more points for shopping in grocery stores, office supply stores, or going out to eat at certain restaurants. These are all things you use in your daily life and your business life – so why not make them work for you?

The most important thing you can do when picking a business credit card is to focus on the cards that will do more for you.

Tips and Ways to Donate Airline Miles

Donating your airline miles can be one of the best ways to ensure that your miles don’t go to waste if you aren’t going to use them. It can be a little confusing at times, especially if you aren’t sure about the company you’re sending your miles to or the method through which you have to donate.

Know How Many Miles You Have

Knowing how many miles that you have can help you to make the most impact when you donate. Some airline mile donations can be in any increment, but some airlines will only allow you to give a certain amount or in certain amounts. Others will have a minimum and a maximum amount that you can donate.

Know how many miles you have and how many you want to donate:

Find an Organization to Fit Your Desires

When donating, you want to find an organization that fits in with your ideals and that you feel comfortable donating to. You can either go through the airlines themselves, but looking at their website and seeing which ones have programs (we’ve outlined a few below, but each airline will likely have their own system) OR by going to a charity’s website and seeing how you can submit miles. It is likely that the charities will push the airline that gives them the most for your donation.

American Miles For Kids In Need

One of the best organizations to send your miles to includes the American Miles for Kids in Need. This is a program that touches the lives of kids involved with many reputable charities, including Make-A-Wish, the Starlight Foundation, A Wish With Wings, and others. For every three miles you donate, American will contribute one mile as well. This is a fantastic way to ensure that children get your airline miles to live out their dreams.

For more information, you can call 800-882-8880 or visit http://www.aa.com.

Delta Skywish

Delta is another airline with their system. If you have over 5,000 miles, you  can donate them to SkyWish, which also helps selected charities, like the United Way, Make-A-Wish, and CARE. See their website for more information or call 800-325-3999.

Donating miles is a fantastic way to make a difference, especially if you don’t use your miles all that frequently. Just make sure that you follow all the rules of the donation so that it goes as far as you want it to go.