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Best Frequent Flyer Programs for Earning & Redeeming Points/Miles

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Best Frequent Flyer Airline Rewards Programs 2021

Booking your flights through travel engines might not get you the same airline. This might save you money now, but you will surely lose out on some sweet perks in the long run. Majority of airlines have frequent flyer programs that rewards with points or miles, redeemable for free flights, better seats, special treatment and other benefits.

If you travel often, definitely look into signing up for the airline loyalty programs. You can continue reading below to see our top five picks for the best frequent flyer airline rewards program to sign up for!

See the best hotel loyalty programs here.

If you do not travel often or don’t think that you will collect enough rewards, Points.com is there to help you. Through this site, you can buy, sell and exchange your loyalty program points/miles all for free. Click here to learn more at Points.com.

Finding The Right Airline Rewards Program

In order to get the best frequent flyer program, you have to take into consideration some personal factors such as:

  • Where you live
  • Where you want to fly to
  • How often you fly

You should also look at what exactly the program offers:

  • Is it easy to earn miles? Collect your miles quickly, and you’ll be well on your way towards a free flight.
  • What is each mile worth? The more valuable the miles, the more worthwhile the program. You’ll want to shoot for at least $0.01 per mile, on average.
  • Are miles easy to redeem? Go for a program that lets you cash in your miles easily. And watch out for those blackout dates, if any.
  • How fast can you earn elite status? Know what it takes to unlock valuable VIP benefits.

Best Domestic Frequent Flyer Programs

Here are some of the best frequent flyer programs that offers you the biggest perks for your loyalty:

1. United Airlines – MileagePlus

The Complete Guide To United Airlines MileagePlus

United Airlines Co-Branded Cards

2. Delta Air Lines – SkyMiles

The Complete Guide To Delta SkyMiles

Delta SkyMiles Co-Branded Credit Cards

3. Southwest Airlines – Rapid Rewards

The Complete Guide To Southwest Rapid Rewards

Southwest Rapid Rewards Co-Branded Credit Cards

4. American Airlines – AAdvantage

The Complete Guide To American Airlines AAdvantage

 5. Alaska Airlines – Mileage Plan

 The Complete Guide To Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

More Domestic Frequent Flyer Programs

Best International Frequent Flyer Programs

British Airways – Executive Club
Turkish Airlines – Miles&Smiles
Korean Air – SKYPASS
KLM/Air France – Flying Blue
 Lufthansa Group – Miles & More

More International Frequent Flyer Programs

Guide To Elite Status Programs

Additional Guides To Frequently Flyer Points & Miles

Tips & Tricks

Most frequent flyer programs have a good amount of value, to get the most for your money, see additional tips below:

Get a Co-Branded Credit CardSet Your Sights on Elite StatusTransfer to Partner Loyalty Programs

Apply for an airline credit card to achieve a free flight quicker. You earn additional miles for purchases, as well as bonus miles in welcome offering. Some cards even give you free checked bags, priority boarding and other airline-specific perks.

Elite status is what makes you feel like VIP. Depending on the program, you could get bonus miles, free checked bags, complimentary upgrades, priority check-in, lounge access, inflight freebies and more.

Transferring your miles to partner programs will make your rewards more flexible, from American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou and Marriott Bonvoy.
KeyBank Checking Bonus Banner
Chase Business Bonus Banner

Bottom Line

Signing up for a frequent flyer rewards programs might be more beneficial than you think. Keep in mind that each airline offer different loyalty programs so make sure you choose the one that best suit you location and lifestyle.

Furthermore, if you frequently travel outside of the U.S., you can check out which credit card offers no foreign transaction fee, so you don’t have to worry about paying extra. And while you’re here on HMB, you can see whether Miles vs. Cash Back card fits you better and learn how much credit card points are worth.

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