✨ New to Points & Miles? Start Here.
Welcome to the world of travel rewards! If you’ve ever wondered how people fly business class for free, stay at luxury hotels without paying a dime, or take multiple vacations a year on a budget—it all comes down to points and miles.
The good news? You don’t need to be rich or travel constantly to make this work. You just need a strategy. Here’s how to start:
💳 1. Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses: The Fastest Way to Earn
The easiest and most powerful way to earn tons of points fast is through credit card welcome bonuses.
Most travel credit cards offer 50,000 to 100,000+ points when you meet a minimum spend in the first 3–6 months.
Example:
• Sign up for a travel card offering 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in 3 months.
• That’s enough for a round-trip flight to Europe or multiple domestic flights—just for using your card on everyday purchases.
✅ Pro Tip:
Start with one or two cards that match your travel goals. Don’t apply for too many at once.
✅ Look for:
• Transferable points (e.g., Chase Ultimate Rewards, Amex Membership Rewards)
• Travel perks like lounge access, hotel credits, or no foreign transaction fees
🛒 2. Maximize Points from Everyday Spending
Once you have a great card, the next step is to earn more from what you’re already spending.
Most cards offer bonus points in specific categories like:
• Dining (3x–5x points)
• Groceries (2x–4x)
• Travel (2x–5x)
• Gas or streaming services
Example:
• Use a card that earns 3x points on dining every time you eat out or order takeout
• Pay for utilities, subscriptions, and bills with your card (if no fee)
✅ Pro Tip:
Use the right card for the right purchase. Even small spending can add up quickly with the right strategy.
🌍 3. Maximize Earnings While Traveling
You don’t stop earning once you’re on the trip—smart travelers earn even more while they’re away.
Here’s how:
• Book hotels and flights through your card’s travel portal for bonus points
• Use cards that offer extra points for travel purchases (e.g., taxis, tours, Ubers)
• Stack rewards with airline/hotel loyalty programs and travel apps (like Rakuten for cashback + points)
Example:
Book a hotel through your Amex or Chase portal and earn 5x points, then use your hotel loyalty number for bonus nights or perks.
✅ Pro Tip:
Use cards with no foreign transaction fees to keep earning abroad and save money.
🎯 Ready to Level Up?
Start with one solid card, put your spending to work, and be intentional about how you use your points. With just a little planning, you’ll be on your way to free flights, luxury stays, and unforgettable adventures.