loyalty programs

You’ve been working toward your dream trip for as long as you can remember. You set a goal, diligently saved your points or miles, and finally booked that coveted award …

Airlines have dramatically changed their policies on the expiration of loyalty program points. Previously, almost every plan required some activity in your account to keep your points active. There’s been …

Over the years, I’ve developed a system to get an upgraded room at hotels every time. It’s so easy that I’m hesitant to share it with you. But I figure …

We traveled much more in 2025 than in 2024. Last year, we logged 28 nights away (23 hotel nights + 5 cruise nights). In 2025, that jumped to 66 nights …

Most hotel loyalty programs do have a points-expiration policy — it just doesn’t always feel like one because it’s usually tied to account inactivity (not the age of the points). …

When you read angry posts from Marriott Bonvoy elites, the complaint is usually the same: “I didn’t get upgraded.” What people forget is that Marriott’s upgrade benefit is availability-based at …

If you fly even occasionally, it’s worth creating a frequent flyer account with each airline you use. Not only does it store your info for faster bookings, but it also …

As we enter 2026, many travelers are reflecting on their hotel loyalty program status and planning how to maximize their benefits for the new year. If you already hold elite …

Ever look at a contest, sweepstakes, or giveaway and wonder, “Why did they even bother?” That’s exactly what happened with a JetBlue offer I received via email about a week …

If I had to name the one skill that determines whether points & miles becomes a fun long-term hobby—or a short, expensive lesson—it wouldn’t be optimization. It wouldn’t be award …