Do you get miles when you use points?

Do Your Points Earn You Miles? The Smart Traveler’s Guide to Double Dipping

The allure of rewards points is undeniable. Whether earned through credit card spending, hotel stays, or retail purchases, these points promise free flights, hotel nights, or even merchandise. But what many travelers overlook is the potential to leverage these points to earn even more – specifically, valuable frequent flyer miles.

The short answer is: yes, in many cases, redeeming your rewards points for flights does earn you miles. This “double dipping” strategy can significantly accelerate your progress towards elite status and premium cabin upgrades.

The most common scenario is redeeming points through your credit card’s travel portal. Many major credit card companies partner with airlines, allowing you to book flights directly using your accumulated points. Crucially, many of these bookings will still credit miles to your associated frequent flyer account. This means you’re essentially getting a “free” flight and accumulating miles towards future travel. Check your credit card’s terms and conditions carefully; the specific rules on mile accrual vary by card and airline partnership.

Beyond credit card portals, other rewards programs may also offer opportunities to earn miles when redeeming points. Some hotel loyalty programs allow you to transfer points to affiliated airline programs, although the conversion rates can vary widely and might not always be favorable. Always compare the value proposition of redeeming points directly for a flight versus transferring them to miles. A careful analysis might reveal that transferring points is less advantageous than simply using them for a flight booked through the rewards portal.

Strategic Point Redemption for Maximum Mileage:

To maximize your mile accrual, consider these strategies:

• Compare Transfer Ratios: Before transferring points to airlines, meticulously compare the conversion rates. A seemingly small difference in the ratio can significantly impact the number of miles you ultimately receive.
• Consider Airline Partnerships: Some airlines have closer partnerships with specific credit card companies or rewards programs, leading to better transfer rates or bonus miles upon redemption.
• Time Your Redemptions: Take advantage of promotional periods where rewards programs offer bonus miles for transfers or point redemptions for flights.
• Utilize Your Credit Card’s Travel Portal: Always check if your credit card allows for flight bookings via their portal, as this is often the most straightforward way to earn both points and miles simultaneously.

In conclusion, while not every point redemption guarantees additional miles, strategically leveraging your rewards can significantly boost your frequent flyer balance. By understanding the nuances of your chosen programs and employing smart redemption strategies, you can unlock the potential for double dipping and elevate your travel experience. Remember to always check the terms and conditions of each program to confirm mileage accrual rules before redeeming your hard-earned points.