Understanding Mile Earning with Credit Cards: A Beginner's Guide

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores the topic of earning miles through credit cards, with participants sharing their experiences and insights regarding different credit card options and the potential benefits and pitfalls of using them for travel rewards.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses curiosity about how earning miles works and mentions hearing others in their cluster who benefited from free plane tickets.
  • Another participant, identifying as Jill, explains that many credit cards offer miles for spending, highlighting the Alaska Airlines Card as popular in her area and noting the importance of discipline in managing credit card payments.
  • A different participant shares a cautionary perspective, stating that accruing miles can lead to higher interest costs if balances are not paid off monthly, sharing their personal choice to pay cash instead.
  • One participant mentions earning free miles through airlines directly and references specific programs like "ONE PASS" with Continental and Southwest's offerings.
  • Another participant inquires about the possibility of finding credit cards with favorable APRs while earning miles.
  • One user suggests Capital One as a potential option for earning miles without blackout dates, sharing their mixed feelings about the service.
  • Another participant recommends American Express as an option for earning miles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness and practicality of using credit cards for earning miles, with some participants sharing positive experiences while others express caution regarding potential pitfalls.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and opinions about various credit card options and airline mile programs, reflecting a range of perspectives on managing credit responsibly while seeking travel rewards.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants interested in understanding the nuances of earning travel miles through credit cards may find the shared experiences and insights relevant.

naekelsey
Gold Member
Messages
726
Can someone please explain to me how earning miles from credit cards works?

I have heard several in my cluster boast how they didn't have to pay for the plane ticket to this Nat Conf because they had enough miles to get it for free.

Does only a certain type of c/c do this? Which one is the best??
 
There are a million credit cards that will offer you miles for the money you spend (usually one mile for one dollar spent). Here in Alaska everyone carries the Alaska Airlines Card from Bank of America and uses it for everything. Caution: you need to be very disciplined if you try the "use it all month and pay it in full" trick to get miles quickly. I do NOT have the discipline! :cool:

Some of the cards offer miles on one airline only (Alaska Air) but there are some that you can use for any airline (my friend has a Capital One she really likes and we have a Wells Fargo card). You would want to check the cardholder agreement to get an idea how many miles you need to fly.

I hope this helps!

Jill
 
Please be careful when getting cc for the miles, many times if you don't pay the balance off every month you will spend more on interest in the long run than you would just buying a ticket to chicago in cash.

From someone who is not disciplined enough to have a cc! I pay cash!
 
U can also earn...free miles for free tickets with the airlines...

I have "ONE PASS" with Continental.com

Southwest use to have one, just to to "iflyswa.com"

most airlines use to offer and many do for free.

Good Luck.

Liz

naekelsey said:
Can someone please explain to me how earning miles from credit cards works?

I have heard several in my cluster boast how they didn't have to pay for the plane ticket to this Nat Conf because they had enough miles to get it for free.

Does only a certain type of c/c do this? Which one is the best??
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Thanks for the answers. Is there such thing of a good APR with earning miles?
 
Good LUck on that one :) maybe...
naekelsey said:
Thanks for the answers. Is there such thing of a good APR with earning miles?

Try Capital one??

they claim to have no black out dates, etc. I have them for most of my banking as my former bank Hibernia became Capital One, I"m not totally happy with them but they're ok.

Liz
 
Also, try American Express.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are credit card miles and how do they work?

Credit card miles are rewards earned through spending on travel-related purchases using a credit card. Each dollar spent typically earns a certain number of miles, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or other travel-related expenses. The more you spend, the more miles you accumulate, allowing you to save on future travel costs.

How can I maximize my mile earnings with credit cards?

To maximize your mile earnings, consider using a credit card that offers higher rewards rates for travel-related purchases, such as flights, hotels, and dining. Additionally, look for sign-up bonuses, and use your card for everyday expenses to accumulate miles faster. Always pay off your balance in full to avoid interest charges that can negate your rewards.

Are there any fees associated with earning miles on credit cards?

Yes, some credit cards may have annual fees, which can vary widely. It's essential to weigh the cost of the fee against the potential rewards you can earn. Additionally, be aware of foreign transaction fees if you plan to use your card abroad, as these can also impact your overall savings.

Can I transfer miles between different credit card programs?

Many credit card issuers allow you to transfer miles to airline or hotel loyalty programs, but the ability to transfer between different credit card programs varies. Check with your credit card issuer to see if they have partnerships with airlines or hotels that allow for mile transfers, and be aware of any restrictions or fees that may apply.

What should I consider before choosing a credit card for earning miles?

Before choosing a credit card for earning miles, consider factors such as the rewards rate, any annual fees, the types of purchases that earn the most miles, and the flexibility of redeeming those miles. Additionally, evaluate your travel habits and preferences to ensure the card aligns with your goals, such as whether you prefer airline-specific rewards or general travel rewards.

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