From Points to Perks: Here’s How to Get the Most Out of 2024’s Top Travel Loyalty Programs!

Travel isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it is about the stories you gather along the way, the people you meet, and the unexpected detours that turn out to be the highlights of your journey.

Whether you’re seeking the thrill of exploring an unfamiliar place or the comfort of revisiting a beloved getaway, the art of travel has evolved into more than just moving from one point to another.

To make the most out of these trips, it helps to have a few tricks up your sleeve—like knowing which travel loyalty programs can take your adventures to the next level.

In the ever-evolving world of travel loyalty programs, one thing remains certain: Change is inevitable.

With fierce competition among companies eyeing for your dollars, these programs are continuously adapting to capture your attention and secure your loyalty.

As we journey deeper into 2024, these top travel loyalty programs in the United States are setting the standard for rewarding your adventures:

• Airlines

  While most airlines today award miles based on ticket cost, the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan stands out by continuing to calculate miles earned based on distance flown.

  This approach is especially beneficial for travelers who fly long distances on budget-friendly tickets, allowing them to accumulate more miles.

  Alaska Airlines has recently revamped its Mileage Plan, making it easier to attain elite status.

  The airline has also eliminated the requirement to fly a specific number of segments on their planes, allowing members to earn miles on over a dozen oneworld partners and various non-alliance partners.

  Any ticket purchased through the Alaska Airlines website guarantees a minimum of 100% of the distance flown, simplifying the process of tracking your rewards.

  Additionally, the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card offers a valuable perk for elite status seekers. Cardholders earn 4,000 Elite Qualifying Miles (EQM) for every USD 10,000 spent, further easing the path to elite status.

• Hotels

  The World of Hyatt Program should be on your radar for 2024, thanks to its 28 hotel brands and expanding global footprint.

  While Hyatt may have fewer properties compared to giants like Marriott or Hilton, its focus on delivering valuable benefits to frequent travelers keeps it at the forefront of loyalty programs.

  Hyatt’s Discoverist status is awarded to members after just 10 eligible nights, while its top-tier Globalist status is achieved after 60 nights in a year.

  The World of Hyatt Credit Card provides automatic Discoverist status and awards five nights toward higher status upon account opening and annually. Additionally, cardholders can earn two more qualifying night credits for every USD 5,000 spent while using the card.

  Recent enhancements to the World of Hyatt program also offer greater flexibility in choosing rewards.

  The revamped Milestone Rewards program, which begins at 20 nights and continues every 10 nights thereafter, allows members to choose from perks such as club access, suite upgrades, FIND experience credits, bonus points, and more.

• Rental Cars

  National’s Emerald Club offers a straightforward way to earn free rental days, which is especially appealing to frequent renters.

  Known for its “choose any car and go” policy, National makes getting on the road quickly and efficiently a breeze.

  As a base member, you’ll earn one free rental day for every seven rentals. Elite status reduces this to six rentals, and top-tier elite members can earn a free day after just five rentals.

  Thanks to National’s parent company, you can even rent a car with Enterprise and still earn credits toward your National Emerald Club status.

  For those holding The Platinum Card® from American Express, enrolling in Emerald Club Executive status is a smart move.

  This status level, typically requiring 12 rentals or 40 rental days per year, guarantees a free upgrade on full-size through luxury vehicle reservations.

  The Amex Platinum card also offers a host of additional benefits, including statement credits for hotel stays, airline fees, and first-rate travel services like Global Entry.

• Travel-Adjacent Brands

  Sometimes, a good cup of coffee can be as important as a flight or hotel stay, especially when you’re on the go.

  Delta and Starbucks have partnered to offer a unique loyalty experience where you can earn extra Starbucks Stars and Delta SkyMiles with every purchase.

  Once you’ve linked your accounts, you’ll earn double stars at Starbucks on days you’re flying with Delta, and you’ll earn one mile per dollar spent at Starbucks no matter what you purchase.

  This partnership adds value to your daily routine and makes it easier for you to earn rewards across different aspects of your travel experience.

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As your travel plans take shape, it's clear that the journey can be just as rewarding as the destination when you make the most of loyalty programs.

These programs are a powerful tool to enhance your adventures, offering perks and rewards that can turn ordinary trips into extraordinary ones.

From maximizing miles to earning free rental days, the right program can make all the difference.

So, until next time, stay savvy with these loyalty programs and turn every trip into something more memorable, rewarding, and worthwhile.

Travel far, travel often, and travel smart!