loyalty programs

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 …

Airlines like to reinvent themselves from time to time — new uniforms, refreshed cabin interiors, updated frequent flyer programs. In 2021, JetBlue decided to try something a little different: it …