If you’re like me and love to travel, you’ve probably accumulated a lot of airline frequent flyer points, whether through flying, credit cards, or promotions. But the trick isn’t just in earning them. It’s all about using those points wisely to get the best possible flights.
I’ve learned many strategies over the years, so let me share with you my top tips to get the most out of your hard-earned frequent flyer points!
1. Understand the Value of Your Frequent Flyer Points
One of the first things I always do is figure out the value of my points as not all frequent flyer points are created equal!
For example, 10,000 points with one airline could be worth a lot more on another, depending on the route, class, or availability.
I use tools like Points Guy’s valuation chart to get a quick sense of what a point is worth in cash terms. When I see a redemption rate that’s underwhelming, I usually hold off and wait for a better deal.
Knowing the value of your points will save you from wasting them on low-value redemptions.
2. Maximize Flexibility with Airline Alliances
I’ve found that leveraging airline alliances can open up way more flight options.
When I’m looking to book with frequent flyer points, I don’t just limit myself to the airline where I earned them. Instead, I look at their partner airlines in alliances like OneWorld or Star Alliance.
Sometimes, I’ll find a cheaper or more convenient flight on a partner airline, and it will still let me redeem my points. It’s a great hack for getting more options and flexibility.
3. Use Multi-City Hops to Your Advantage
Here’s one of my favourite strategies: the multi-city hop. Instead of booking a round-trip flight, I often plan my trips using a multi-city option.
This allows me to visit more than one destination on a single points booking. For example, I once flew from New York to Tokyo, but I managed to include a stopover in Hawaii for a few days – all for the same frequent flyer points as a round trip to Tokyo!
The multi-city feature really helps me stretch my points and experience more along the way. Plus, it’s great way to explore more than one destination on the same trip!
4. Book Early for the Best Deals
I can’t stress this enough: if you want the best flights, especially in business or first class, book as early as possible. Airlines release a limited number of award seats, and they get snapped up fast.
I’ve missed out on some great flights because I waited too long, but now I set alerts or check regularly for availability.
Being proactive can score you a dream flight for a fraction of the points.
5. Travel Off-Peak to Save Frequent Flyer Points
I’ve noticed that when I travel off-peak, I can save a ton of frequent flyer points.
Airlines tend to lower the point requirements when fewer people are flying, like during mid-week or non-holiday months. For example, flying to Europe in the shoulder seasons – say, late September or early April – can cut point costs by 30-40%.
If your travel schedule is flexible, this is a great way to get more bang for your points.
6. One-Way Flights Can Be a Better Deal
I used to think round-trip flights were the best use of points, but I’ve learned that sometimes booking one-way flights can be more efficient.
This is especially true for multi-destination trips. I’ll often book a one-way flight on one airline and then use points from another program for the return leg.
It gives me more control over my options and sometimes saves me frequent flyer points in the process.
7. Upgrade with Points for a Premium Experience
I love using points to upgrade rather than booking entire flights. If you’ve ever wanted to fly premium, business or first class but don’t have enough points for the whole fare, upgrading is an awesome option.
I’ve managed to score transatlantic business class seats for just a few thousand points more than economy – totally worth it for the added comfort, especially on long-haul flights.
This trick works best when you find a good deal on a cash ticket and then use points to upgrade.
8. Look for Sweet Spot Redemptions
Every airline has those “sweet spot” routes where you get exceptional value for your frequent flyer points.
For example, I’ve found that flights within Southeast Asia or between North America and Europe often require fewer points, especially during promotions. I always keep an eye on these sweet spots and plan my trips around them when possible.
It’s a great way to get more value without spending a fortune in points.
9. Avoid High Fees and Surcharges
One of the most frustrating things I’ve encountered when redeeming points is running into high fuel surcharges or additional fees. I once booked a flight using points, only to be hit with hundreds of dollars in extra charges.
Now, I’m careful about which airlines I choose when redeeming. Some carriers are notorious for tacking on fees, so I always research beforehand. Choosing airlines that have minimal surcharges makes a huge difference in how far my frequent flyer points go.
10. Short-Haul Flights Offer Great Value
If I have a stash of frequent flyer points and want to avoid paying for a last-minute flight, I often use them for short-haul domestic flights.
These flights usually require far fewer points than long-haul or international routes, and they can save me a lot of money, especially for quick weekend getaways.
It’s not as glamorous as using frequent flyer points for an international business class seat, but it’s definitely a practical and efficient way to use them.
11. Keep Track of Expiration Dates
Lastly, always keep an eye on the expiration dates of your frequent flyer points. I’ve been guilty of letting some expire before, which feels like such a waste.
To prevent this, I try to keep my points active by making small transactions or even redeeming a few points for something minor, like a gift card or a magazine subscription.
It’s an easy way to reset the clock and make sure you don’t lose any of your hard-earned frequent flyer points.
Summary
So there they are. These are the top tips I use to get the best flights with airline points. Whether you’re looking to score a multi-city adventure or upgrade to a luxury cabin, using your points strategically can open up incredible travel opportunities.
Hopefully these tips help you maximize your frequent flyer points and enjoy the perks of travel without breaking the bank!