Start Earning Points and Miles for Travel

You’ve likely seen many travelers out there who claim they jet set around the world in style, all for free, thanks to playing the points and miles game. While that game can be a difficult (and costly) one, it doesn’t hurt to start earning your points and miles for travel now, even on a small scale. When you’re able to redeem your miles for a free flight, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to get started.

The first thing to do — sign up for loyalty programs with the airline and hotel brands you use most. It’s free, it’s easy and you’ll start earning points and miles almost immediately. Plus, many loyalty programs come with free perks, like free checked luggage or WiFi. Loyalty programs are additionally often linked to dining programs and shopping portals, so you can eat or shop and earn points just for doing so, but then put the purchase on your credit card, earning points that way as well.

However, you have to start using the right credit cards. Many cards (like the Platinum Card from American Express) allow you to transfer your points to use during travel. Others are directly related to a specific travel brand, like the Starwood Preferred Guest Credit Card, or the United MileagePlus Explorer Card from Chase. Research your cards to determine which ones earn you the most points or miles for the brands you prefer.

Lastly, earn points the smart way with these cards — as in, don’t think you have to rack up a large amount of debt on your credit cards in order to get your points. Instead, put your purchases on your card, but then immediately pay them off. Don’t wait until you acquire interest. Both your points and miles totals and your credit score will thank you.

The United Explorer Card recently relaunched and now offers two times miles earned at restaurants and hotel accommodations, 25 percent back on in-flight purchases and up to $100 as a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck services every four years.