There are some well known travel writers who like to proclaim that points and miles are a big scam. Their evidence is based on the fact that many travelers cannot get the award flights that they want, at the mileage levels they were promised. And when they do, airlines impose enough surcharges and fees that the trip is hardly free.

As someone who has enjoyed over a hundred thousand dollars worth of award travel, I vehemently disagree that these programs are scams. But at the same time, I recognize that earning points and miles is not the best strategy for all reward cards users. For some credit card users, it can make more sense to earn cash back, or some type of loyalty points or miles with a fixed value. [click to continue…]

{ 0 comments }