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The Myths About Frequent Flyer Points – Pt.1

More and more airlines are starting to offer frequent flyer programs. Unfortunately, many travellers are reluctant to sign up for these types of programs because of some of the misconceptions surrounding this type of program.

Failure to sign up for frequent flyer programs means you could be missing out on some amazing benefits. Members of frequent flyer programs receive all types of benefits that range from free food and complimentary upgrades to discounts on future flights and hotel accommodations.

In an effort to help travellers get the biggest bang for their buck while travelling, we have decided to debunk some of the myths surrounding frequent flyer programs with a two-part blog.

The Myths About Frequent Flyer Points - Pt1

The Myths About Frequent Flyer Points – Pt1                        Photo credit: Ryan McgGuire / gratisography

Myth #1: Every Frequent Flyer Program is the Same

At first glance, all frequent flyer programs appear the same. They all require you to collect points. Those points are then redeemed for rewards, such as free flights or seat upgrades. But that is where the similarities end.

Airline frequent flyer programs are not all the same. Some airlines have programs that tend to cater more towards the business traveller, while other programs will benefit the casual family who is off on their summer holiday.

Before signing your name on the dotted line, it is important to research the frequent flyer program you are about to sign up for. Doing so will allow you to make sure you are signing up for a program that best suits you – or your family’s – needs.

Things to consider and compare when enrolling in a frequent flyer program include:

  • The focus of the program – is it for business travellers or casual travellers
  • How points can be earned – is it only for flights purchased or are there other ways to earn points
  • How can points be used
  • Do the points expire

Myth #2: Frequent Flyer Programs are Only Designed for The Frequent Traveller

In the past, frequent flyer programs were only designed for the frequent traveller, but that has changed in recent years. Some frequent flyer programs will allow people to earn points by doing things they do on a daily basis, such as shopping at specific retailers or staying at certain hotel chains.

The ability to earn points for everyday activities allows you to quickly accumulate points that can be used when you do eventually travel.

Myth #3: Airlines Blackout Dates and Prevent You From Using Frequent Flyer Points

This is another myth that stems from the frequent flyer programs of the past. It used to be that airlines would designate certain dates – usually major travel days such as Christmas or Easter – as blackout dates. You would be unable to redeem your points for free flights during that time. Luckily, that has changed.

Instead of blacking out dates, airlines use a tiered system. People can redeem free or discounted flights on major travel days; they just have to use more of their frequent flyer points.

Understanding the truth behind frequent flyer programs will allow you to see just how beneficial they can be even to the casual traveller. The money you save in the long run may be better allocated to your duty-free allowance!

Understand more of the most common frequent flyer in Part 2 of our Frequent Flyer Myths blog, as we continue to debunk them, so you know the truth about this extremely valuable program.

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