Travelers are often working very hard to accumulate their frequent flyer miles and reward points, but sometimes are left clueless on how to actually use them. Some individuals might even shrug them off as useless, without being aware of the full extent of the rewards they're entitled to. Whether you have already amassed a good stash of miles, or are considering whether you want to sign up for one, here are six ideas on how best to use your frequent flier miles.
1. Fly
That's what your miles are primarily for: free flights. The most popular way to use up those miles is still to book free airline tickets. You may encounter some hurdles towards getting free flights, such as limited seat availability and some blackout dates. However, you can still use your miles to get huge discounts on airline tickets.
2. Upgrade
If you don't get to fly for free, at least you get to fly in style. Most airlines allow the use of miles in order to upgrade seats. Instead of flying coach, you can enjoy the benefits of First Class. Make sure to check if bumping up your seat will incur some hidden costs.
3. Hotel Stays
While it's not possible to directly convert your airline miles to free hotel bookings, you can find deals that allow you to exchange your miles for hotel loyalty points and awards. With your hotel points or trip vouchers, you can secure perks for your accommodations such as free reservations and room upgrades.
4. Car Rental
Most airlines are also affiliated with leading car rental agencies in order to provide more incentives to customers. You can redeem your free miles for car rental vouchers to get huge discounts, and even get a couple of rental days free.
5. Redeem Points for Products and Services
Though it's not possible to redeem your free miles for cash, airlines are often affiliated with products and services that allow you to claim vouchers. You can exchange your miles for store certificates and discounts, magazine subscriptions, free restaurant visits, and more. There are also some websites that have a marketplace for points exchange and trading. You can trade your miles for some other reward points here.
6. Give Them Away
If you have no intention of using your miles, it's best to give them away to someone who can benefit from them. You can transfer your miles to another account, and give it as a gift to friends or family. If you're feeling particularly generous, airlines allow you to donate your miles. You can give your reward points to charity organizations such as the Red Cross and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. These institutions use the free miles for their travel needs.
There are many other ways out there to use up your free miles. Whether you're on the lookout for free tickets, or hoping to get a hefty discount on some services, you know you've found the best use for your miles when you feel you have finally come across a really good deal.