Earning airline miles is one of the easiest things you can do. Whether it be directly through an airline program, or a rewards credit card, you can earn points with ease to be put towards your next flight.
Frequent flyer programs and rewards credit cards have changed dramatically within the last few years, offering you plenty of options to choose from.
While the points may seem “free”, the reality is you’re spending money to earn these points. But as the old saying goes, you need to spend money to make money
Here are the top 7 ways you can earn airline miles
Airline Mile Credit Cards
Making your purchases with a rewards credit card is one of the easiest ways you can rack up airline miles.
[It’s key that you choose the right credit card, one that will help you earn points faster, so you can book that dream flight as soon as possible.
There are two main credit card types that earn you points. To determine which type of card you should go with, you need to think about what matters most to you.
The first option is a credit card that is directly co branded with an airline company like the United Explorer Card. If you’re looking to cash in on airline miles only, then an affiliated airline credit card would be the choice for you as they generally offer better deals. Keep in mind if you fly with different airlines on a regular basis, an affiliated card will limit your options.
The second option is a credit card that is more of a general rewards card, but also offers airline miles, like the American Express Platinum Card, or Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. If you’re looking to earn points to be used on booking a flight, but also hotels, or gift cards, you may be happier with a more general rewards card.
Dining Out
Whether you dine out often or only on special occasions, you can earn valuable points.
If you’re signed up with a frequent flyer program through an airline, many of them have dining rewards programs. You can link your card to your account to earn points at select restaurant partners. Check out American AAdvantage Dining as an example.
If you have a more general rewards credit card thats not linked to an airline carrier, you can still earn points that can be used for booking a flight. Some of these cards may offer higher reward points if you dine with their listed partners.
Bonus Bonus Bonus
To entice you to sign up for their program or rewards card, companies are basically throwing free points your way.
Keep in mind, that you should read the fine print. Some cards may stipulate that you have to spend a certain amount prior to cashing in on your bonus.
Fly
Who would have thought… booking a flight to earn airline miles! This is one of the first ways consumers years ago earned points, and you still can.
Focusing on where exactly you’re flying can be important. Having all your airline miles under one airline carrier will take you further than having your points split up between multiple cards.
Fill Up Your Gas Tank
While this may not bring in the most airline miles, its a small thing you can do to help close the gap to your next points milestone. If you’re filling up on gas anyways, you might as well earn airline miles.
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards members can earn 1 point per gallon of fuel purchased at Marathon gas stations.
Use Online Shopping Portals
Most of the big airlines offer shopping portals where you can earn points off purchases. The Southwest Airlines shopping portal for example offers anywhere from 1 to 10 airline miles on purchases.
Hotel Stays or Rental Cars
Many airlines have partnerships with rental car companies and hotel chains. This means you can earn points during your vacation too.
The Final Say
There are over a dozen ways you can earn airline miles. With multiple options to choose from, deciding what is most important to you is key in determining how you can best earn your airline miles.
