Airline miles, frequent flyer miles, or travel points are all the same thing and these refer to an airline-specific currency that you can earn by booking flights with an airline or spending money with a credit card. People who air travel frequently are well aware of the fact that airline miles are highly valuable, as they can allow you to save substantial amounts of money on flights in the form of discounts.
But apart from getting a discount on your next flight or booking a flight, what are the ways in which you can use airline miles? Let’s find out!
Upgrade Your Seat
One of the best uses you can make of your airline miles is by upgrading your seat. Most airlines like Qantas Australia, that have frequent flyer programs offer various seat upgrades, from a premium economy seat, all the way up to business or first-class. Upgrading your seats through purchased airline miles is a more cost-effective way than for paying the upgrade in cash. By making an upgrade, you will enjoy a more comfortable flight and get access to premium features like priority boarding, lounge access, and better food and drink options.
Book a Flight
Instead of paying for the flight from your pocket, you can book a flight directly with your airline miles. Purchased airline miles provide travelers with the flexibility to book a flight of their choice, whether it is a one-way ticket or a round trip. The best thing about booking a flight through frequent-flyer miles or points is that these can help you get to your destination for free or considerably less. This is useful if you’re traveling during peak season or to a popular destination, where flights tend to be more expensive than usual.
Hotel Accommodation
Apart from flights, airline miles can also be used for accommodation to book hotel stays. Many airlines have partnerships with hotels, which means that you can use your airline miles to book a hotel for free. In case you are short on miles, you can use those miles to get the room at a discount. It is a great way to spend your airline miles and get the most out of them, as the rooms that you can book through airline miles are usually luxurious and comfortable.
Rent a Car
Just like hotels, many airlines like Air NZ have partnerships with car rental companies too. This allows you to use your airline miles to rent a car for your trip. With airline miles, you can cover the cost of the rental and save a substantial amount of money on your trip.
Buy Merchandise
Most people are not aware of this, but some airlines have their own merchandise stores too where you can buy things like electronics, clothing, footwear, and other accessories. Those frequent-flyer miles that you have can also be used to buy merchandise or any of these items. Some airlines even offer discounts or promotions when you use your miles to buy merchandise.
Cover Additional Fees
If you have already booked a ticket for yourself, you can use the bought airline miles to cover additional fees associated with air travel. Airline miles can be used to cover additional costs like taxes, baggage fees, and more. Instead of paying in cash, you can utilize your airline miles to cover additional fees.
Gift or Transfer Miles
Lastly, you always have the option to gift miles to a friend or family member. Gifting your miles can be a great way to show your appreciation for your loved ones and there are some airlines that do allow transfer for miles between accounts.