Is there anything better than getting perks for travel? There are multiple ways to get returns from your travel expenses.
Airline Loyalty Programs
Many airlines have loyalty programs the provide miles that can be redeemed for discounts, upgrades or even free flights. United Airlines, Air Canada, and Spirit Airlines are just a few of the companies that have loyalty programs. Sign up is typically very easy, and it’s best to do so before purchasing tickets. The order will have a field for the rewards program number. Keep in mind that some rewards programs only apply to one person. So if you are purchasing tickets for multiple people, you might night to create a rewards login for each person.
Airline Mile Credit Cards
Some airlines have their own branded credit cards that offer sign up bonuses and miles back for every purchase. Points can be redeemed for credit towards flights or even at some hotels. If you plan to fly with the same airline consistently this might be worthwhile given all the perks. However, if you are a bargain shopping and don’t fly with the same company more than once a year, it might be more beneficial to use a cash back card instead.
Hotel Loyalty Programs
If you travel for business or pleasure, when of the best ways to get a little something back is through hotel rewards programs. We’re a big fan of Bonvoy from Marriott which gives you points for each hotel stay. The points can then be used for free or discounted stays at hotels all over the world. If you have frequent overnight stay for work these can be saved up and used for accommodations when on vacation. Other chains offer similar program and at no cost to become a member it’s a no brainer.
Hotel Credit Cards
Some hotels also have credit cards that provide points for signing up and on regular purchases. Currently Marriott is offering 75,000 points for a credit card sign up when certain conditions are met. We have found some hotels, including the Courtyard brand, can be as low as 12000 points per night. So that’s potentially 6 free nights for getting the Bonvoy card. This card does carry a $95 per year fee. If you want to avoid the fee, there is another Bonvoy card that offers 50,000 points and no annual fee.
