Family travel can be an exciting and memorable experience, but it can also be quite expensive. The cost of flights, hotels, and other expenses, can quickly add up. However, there is a way to save money and make your travels more affordable – by using points and miles. Earning and redeeming points and miles is a great way to pay for your travel expenses without dipping into your savings.
However, using points and miles is not always straightforward. In this post, we will highlight 5 common mistakes people make when using points and miles for family travel and provide tips on avoiding them. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a beginner, this guide will help you get the most out of your points and miles and ensure that your travels are a success!
1. Not booking in advance
One of the most common mistakes people make when using points and miles is not booking in advance. When you book last minute, the availability of flights and hotels may be limited, and you may have to settle for a less desirable option. Furthermore, some travel programs offer different redemption rates for booking in advance versus late. So booking last minute can result in a much higher redemption rate, meaning you will get less value for your points and miles.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to plan ahead and book your travel as early as possible. This way, you will have more options to choose from, you’ll also have time to research your options, compare prices, and make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.
Additionally, some providers even offer early bird discounts for booking early.
2. Not understanding the redemption process
Another common mistake people make when using points and miles is not understanding the redemption process. Understanding the rules and restrictions of your travel program is crucial to getting the most value for your points and miles.
Some programs have blackout dates when you cannot use your points and miles. Additionally, some travel programs offer different redemption rates for different types of travel expenses, such as flights, hotels, or rental cars. Studying these restrictions and specificities will help you avoid frustration and disappointment later.
3. Not comparing options
A third common mistake people make when using points and miles is not comparing options. With so many travel programs available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and choose the first option that seems good. However, you can miss out on better options and get a lower value for your points and miles.
It’s important to do your research and compare the different options available. Look at the different redemption rates, blackout dates, restrictions, and any other factors that may impact the value of your points and miles. Additionally, consider the cost of flights, hotels, and other travel expenses, and compare these costs across different travel programs to find the one that gives you the best value.
It’s also important to consider your travel habits when choosing a travel program. If you travel frequently, it may be worth signing up for a program that offers more flexible redemption options. On the other hand, if you only travel occasionally, a program with more straightforward redemption options may be a better choice.
One tool that can help with this process is MaxMyPoint. This website allows you to search for award availability across multiple hotel chains, making it easy to compare your options and find the best one for your family’s travel needs.
4. Not considering hidden fees
Another common mistake people make when using points and miles for family travel is not considering hidden fees. While redeeming points and miles can seem like a great way to save money, it’s important to be aware of the hidden fees that may be associated with these redemptions.
For example, some travel programs charge fees for booking flights or hotels using points and miles. These fees can add up quickly and significantly reduce the value of your points and miles. Additionally, some travel programs charge fees for making changes to your itinerary or for cancelling your trip.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to do your research and understand the fees associated with each travel program. Make sure to factor in these fees when comparing the different options and choose the one that gives you the best value for your points and miles, even with the fees included.
In short, don’t let hidden fees catch you off guard when using points and miles for family travel.
5. Not staying organized
The final common mistake people make when using points and miles is not staying organized. With so many points and miles programs, it can be easy to lose track of which points you have, when they expire, and how to use them.
Consider using a spreadsheet or app to keep track of your points and miles, and set reminders to use them before they expire. Maintaining your travel itinerary, including flight and hotel reservations, rental car bookings, and other travel expenses, is also important.
Don’t let poor organization spoil your family travel plans! By staying organized and keeping track of your points and miles, you will be able to maximize the value of your points and miles and have a successful and enjoyable trip.
Bottom line
Using points and miles to pay for family travel can be an amazing way to save money and make your trips more affordable. However, it’s important to avoid these common mistakes in order to get the most value for your points and miles. By booking in advance, understanding the redemption process, comparing options, considering hidden fees, and staying organized, you can ensure that your family travels are smooth and stress-free.
