Points vs. Airline Miles: Which Is the Best Option for Travelers?

Discover the main advantages and differences between points and airline miles for travel. Learn how to choose the best option and maximize your benefits on flights, accommodations and more!

Introducing the world of points and miles

Points Miles
With points and airline miles you can get free stays and flights! Photo by Freepik.

Airline miles and points are powerful tools that have become essential in our times. Although some people may not fully understand them yet, and may even have some reluctance due to perceived complexity, they are actually practical and straightforward.

Through points and miles, customers can enjoy numerous travel discounts, complimentary dinners, free flights, complimentary stays, and much more! This system offers great advantages and security for travelers.

If you’re already accustomed to traveling, or if you want to make travel a more regular part of your life, miles and points are an excellent gateway. Keep reading to understand everything about them and how to earn each.

What Are Points and Airline Miles?

As mentioned earlier, points and miles are essentially exchange currencies. You earn them in return for your spending and, in turn, gain numerous advantages.

What Are Points?

Points are benefits that have become increasingly common with credit cards, particularly travel cards. These points are primarily accumulated through specialized credit cards designed for travelers, which help people save money and obtain exclusive perks.

Here’s how it works: the more you spend on your travel card, the more points you can earn. These points can be accumulated and later redeemed for numerous rewards, especially travel-related benefits like discounts on hotel stays, car rentals, dinners, and more.

With credit card points, you can unlock exclusive benefits that make your trips more economical and enjoyable.

Credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Capital One Venture Rewards are great options for earning more points and getting introduced to the world of rewards. If you don’t already have a travel card, these can be good options.

What Are Airline Miles?

Airline miles are also an exchange currency that you can accumulate through co-branded credit cards (those partnered with airlines) and airline loyalty programs. Miles are typically more specific to airfare benefits and often provide the highest value for long-haul flights.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Points

Flexibility of Points

Points are highly flexible and can be used across a wide range of categories, from accommodations to car rentals, and even for products. This versatility is ideal for those who want more options beyond airfare, with the added benefit of transferability to travel partners.

Value of Points

The value of points varies depending on how they’re redeemed. They tend to be more valuable for flights and hotel stays but may offer less return for products and experiences. Evaluating the point value in each program is key to maximizing benefits.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Airline Miles

Best Redemption Options for Airline Miles

Airline miles are especially advantageous for booking flights, particularly in premium classes and for international travel. Frequent promotions for mileage redemptions also increase their value.

Limitations of Airline Miles

Airline miles come with limitations such as restricted seat availability, specific dates, and shorter expiration times. These restrictions can make them less flexible compared to points.

How to Choose Between Points and Airline Miles

Here are a few tips to help you decide if it’s best to focus on miles or points:

  1. Evaluate Your Traveler Profile: Self-assess your travel style. Do you travel frequently? What do you spend most on during trips? What do you value most in a good trip? By answering these questions, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of which option best aligns with your needs.
  2. Analyze Your Credit Card Program: If you already have a travel credit card, review what your card emphasizes or rewards more. This varies greatly from card to card. If you don’t yet have a card, this is something worth considering before choosing one.

Summarizing

The choice between points and airline miles is highly personal and should be made after careful analysis. Both are intelligent tools that should be used wisely to help you get the most out of what they offer.

For information on the best credit cards for frequent travelers, check out:

Top Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024
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Top Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024

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About the author

Victoria Lima