I am new to travelling and I am trying to figure out how to use frequent flier miles. The problem is that most of the podcasts and blogs I have found, while are really useful for the basics, are from an US prospective. I am from the UK and want to travel internationally but I don't know which are the best miles to get. Does BA always have a fuel surcharge when flying internationally? Could I get United miles and use them? Should I get Avios points instead?

The trip I plan on taking this year is travelling Latin America for six months to a year so I would need to get to either Cancun, Mexico or La Paz, Bolivia and Avianca seems like the best airline to get to La Paz which is part of Star Alliance. This is why I thought it might be better to try to get United miles as I could use the to travel while over there too.

Also I have no idea how hard it is to get a credit card used to build up a US airlines ffm while living in the UK. Do you just join their program then apply for a credit card from them using a UK address?

As you can see I am a little lost so if anyone can shed some light on the issue I would appreciate it.

Hi

I am a UK traveller

1. What is most important to you in a frequent flyer program (FFP)?
upgrades, priority services, baggage allowance, good award redemption rates, better award access, lounge access, etc.

Good award redemption rates, better award access, upgrades.

2. How many miles do you usually fly each year? How many flights/sectors?
less than 25000 miles, 50000+ miles and 20-25 flights, etc.

I will be flying approx 15000 miles. Not too bothered about flights being indirect.

3. What fare class do you usually buy?

Cheapest

4. Are you able to choose your airlines and/or class of service? Do you travel for work and/or pleasure?

Travel will be for pleasure. I will be able to choose my own airline & class.

5. Which routes do you fly most often?

International

6. What is your home airport?

Manchester but can use Heathrow if necessary

7. Do you have status in any FFP? What is it? How miles do you have banked in each FFP, if any:

None

8. What are your preferred airlines, if any?

I do not have a strong preference.

Thanks
James