How To Maximise Air Miles

Flying isn't the only way to earn miles. You can rack up your miles through everyday spending as well. Here are a few tips to get you started, and not having to pay out of your pocket for flights.

1. Pick your miles program

One of the easiest and most straight forward ways to earn points is by signing up for a rewards program like Asia Miles or Star Alliance rather than just choosing one airline. Reward programs like Asia Miles cover a number of airlines, as well offering lifestyle benefits. If you travel often and aren't signed up with a program yet, you are wasting potential free flights. So get on it! 

2. Choose your credit card wisely

Choosing the right credit card can make a big difference in the benefits you get towards airline miles. A few things to keep in mind before applying: first, choose a card with a big welcome offer. Cards such as Standard Chartered Asia Miles MasterCard offer up to 30,000 Asia Miles, that's already a return flight from Hong Kong to Tokyo. Check out the flight calculator for your next trip for inspiration.

You can earn air miles with every everyday spending. Some credit cards offer triple points with overseas spending. With each transaction you can earn points which you can then exchange for air miles.

Apart from comparing the welcome offers and air miles rewards, you also need to look at annual fees, penalty policies, and terms & conditions. You can use MoneyHero to do all the comparison work for you.

3. Dine for points

Register your credit or debit card with any airline’s dining program, and you’ll automatically earn points just dining at participating restaurants. These change regularly so check your program's website for new deals.

4. Make the most of your online shopping

While shopping at your favourite online stores seem like something you do on autopilot, if you take one extra step before shopping, you can be earning miles with every dollar you spend. Many airlines/rewards programs have online shop portals that allow you to earn points while you shop. Asia Miles iShop offers everything from Apple electronics to fashion, from ASOS and Net-A-Porter.

5. Work your way to a higher tier

Gaining elite status isn’t necessary, but definitely has its perks. By signing up with some airline credit cards, miles can be earned and automatically put toward qualifying you for the higher tiers. Earning status can take time and money, but once you’re there it will be well worth it. Perks include access to airport lounges, priority boarding, preferred seating choice, extra baggage allowance and free upgrades.

6. Redeeming points

Not only can you spend your hard-earned points on flights, you can redeem everything from hotel stays, car rental, to concerts and experiences or donate them to charities like UNICEF and Oxfam.