Lost in the Clouds: How can you stop your frequent flyer miles from disappearing?

Airline loyalty programs are great for various reasons: They increase customer retention and purchase frequency, improve customer segmentation, and enhance brand reputation.

For customers, these programs are a great source of tangible rewards and incentives, personalized experiences, exclusive access and perks, cost-effectiveness, and a sense of community and belonging.

… but here’s the thing: Loyalty programs also have their fair share of cons (yes, you read that right).

That’s because many loyalty programs operate on a “use it or lose it” basis. If you’re not careful, your travel rewards could disappear before you ever get to enjoy them.

While some airline miles and hotel points never expire, others come with strict expiration policies.

The good news?

With the right strategies, you can keep your points alive and kicking for years to come!

Let’s keep reading below…

Photo from Wikipedia

Domestic Airlines Frequent Flyer Miles Expiration

If you’re a frequent flyer with a U.S.-based airline, your miles may be subject to expiration rules.

Here’s how some of the major domestic carriers handle their loyalty programs:

• American Airlines AAdvantage: Miles expire after 24 months of inactivity. However, any earning or redeeming activity—including making a purchase with an AAdvantage-linked credit card—can reset the clock. Travelers under 21 and active primary credit cardholders are exempt from expiration.

• Delta Air Lines SkyMiles: SkyMiles never expire. So, whether you’re a casual traveler or a frequent flyer, you don’t have to worry about losing your miles.

• Frontier Airlines Frontier Miles: Frontier operates on a stricter policy—your miles will expire after 12 months of inactivity. The only way to keep them active is by earning miles (flying with Frontier) or using a Frontier Airlines World Mastercard® at least once a year.

• Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles: Like SkyMiles, HawaiianMiles never expire. This offers travelers peace of mind when saving up for a big trip!

• JetBlue TrueBlue Points: Another winner for travelers—TrueBlue points never expire, giving you the freedom to use them whenever you please!

• Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards: Like Delta, Hawaiian, and JetBlue, Southwest points do not expire, making it one of the most flexible rewards programs in the U.S.

International Airlines with Mileage Expiration Dates

Meanwhile, if you’re racking up miles with an international carrier, pay close attention as some of these carriers have strict expiration policies:

• Air Canada Aeroplan: Points expire after 18 months of inactivity, but earning or redeeming points will keep them active.

• British Airways Executive Club Avios: Avios points expire after 36 months of inactivity. However, any earning or redemption activity will reset the expiration clock.

• Lufthansa Miles & More: Miles expire after 36 months, regardless of account activity—unless you hold certain elite status levels or a co-branded credit card.

• Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer: Miles expire 36 months after they are earned, with no way to extend them.

• Emirates Skywards: Miles expire after three years at the end of your birth month, so it’s best to use them before then.

Hotel Points Expiration Policies

Hotel loyalty programs also have expiration policies that vary by brand:

• Marriott Bonvoy: Points expire after 24 months of inactivity. You can keep them active by earning or redeeming points through stays or purchases.

• Hilton Honors: Points expire after 24 months of inactivity. Booking rooms with a mix of cash and points is a great way to keep them from expiring.

• World of Hyatt: Points expire after 24 months of inactivity, but earning or redeeming points can reset the clock.

• IHG One Rewards: Points expire after 12 months of inactivity unless you hold elite status.

Credit Cards Points Expiration

Some credit card rewards points expire, while others remain active as long as your account is open:

• Chase Ultimate Rewards: Points never expire as long as your account is open.

• American Express Membership Rewards: These points do not expire, but you lose them if you close your account.

• Citi ThankYou Points: Some expire after 36 months, depending on the card.

• Capital One Miles: These do not expire as long as your account remains open.

How to Keep Your Points from Expiring

To ensure your hard-earned miles and points don’t disappear, consider these simple strategies:

• Earn or Redeem Regularly: Even a small purchase through an airline’s shopping portal or dining program can keep your miles active.

• Use a Co-Branded Credit Card: Many airline and hotel credit cards automatically keep your points from expiring as long as you use the card.

• Book an Award Flight or Hotel Stay: Even if you’re not traveling, some airlines allow you to book and cancel a flight with no penalty, effectively resetting your points expiration.

• Donate or Transfer Points: If you're not using your miles, donate them to a charitable cause or transfer them to another account (if allowed).

• Buy Something from an Airline or Hotel Partner: Many loyalty programs have partnerships with retailers and restaurants—making purchases through these portals can extend your expiration date.

You see, loyalty points and miles are valuable travel assets, but they can disappear if you’re not paying attention.

That’s why understanding expiration policies and taking simple actions to keep them active ensures that when you’re ready to book your next getaway, your points will be there waiting for you.

So, whether it’s a weekend escape or a bucket-list adventure, a little planning goes a long way in maximizing your rewards.

Keep these tips in mind!

Happy travels!