So, you’re asking yourself – how can I get frequent flyer miles if I really don’t fly?! There are tons of ways to
earn miles even if you don’t step foot on an airplane [but that helps a lot if
you want to build miles fast]. A simple
rule of thumb for the miles game is to do things you normally do, but conform to
how the airline has it set up. Here is a brief overview of how to get closer to that free airline ticket quickly:
1. The Airline Credit Card: Let’s
use United Airlines as a test case as that is my airline of choice [with access to airlines in the
Star Alliance Network]. Depending on the credit card offer, you can earn 30,000
up to 50,000 miles just for signing up [and spending a certain amount on the
card to secure the full bonus]. From
that point forward, count on 1 mile per $1 spent which can really add up depending on your shopping habits. There usually is a yearly fee, but sometimes
that is waived for the first year. Depending on the size of the sign-on bonus, you could already be flying for free somewhere in the Continental United States or the Caribbean.
Just remember - don’t keep a
balance on that mileage credit card – if you do, that free ticket will cost you
thousands in interest charges.
2. Send flowers: Valentine’s Day is
right around the corner as is Mother’s Day.
Word to the miles wise – go through your airline’s online shopping ‘mall’
to secure your flowers purchase. Some companies offer 10-20 miles per $ spent
which could yield a few hundred extra miles into your miles account.
3. Eat a meal: Some airlines
offer a ‘Dining Program’ where you can earn 5-10 miles per dollar spent just
for going out to eat at your favorite restaurant [assuming you use your registered credit / debit card at these
participating restaurants].
Try those three things first to
get a head of steam going in your quest for a free airline ticket!
