When my husband discovered “travel hacking” 10 years ago, he was determined to master it. We had a trip to Oregon coming up, so that was the first test of his newfound knowledge. It took about 6 months to plan, but sure enough, he booked us a round-trip ticket for free. Since then, he has taken more than 50 flights, most of which were free or nearly free using credit card points.
In the early days of travel hacking, I was worried that my credit score would go down, but my husband, Jeff, is an award-winning financial advisor and says the free flight method avoids potential problems. He assured me that there were only two rules needed. These steps are things you should already be doing. This means paying your credit card statement balances on time to avoid paying interest and keeping multiple credit cards for the long term.
With these two simple rules in mind, we'll show you exactly how to earn and use credit card points to book your dream vacation and fly for free.
Credit card points 101
In the simplest terms, travel hacking for free flights is simply a strategic approach to getting the most out of your credit card rewards and airline loyalty programs. You can earn points and miles by choosing a travel rewards credit card, meeting spending requirements to earn a generous sign-up bonus, and avoiding annual fees. These benefits can be redeemed for free or heavily discounted flights. This process involves planning, understanding your specific credit card terms, and taking advantage of available benefits to maximize the value of your accumulated travel rewards.
With that overview in mind, here are six steps to earning and using credit card points on free flights.
Step 1: Choose your destination and month you want to travel
Choosing your destination and strategically planning your travel itinerary is the first and most important step. Since you need to earn a significant number of points to cover the cost of your flight, it can take some time to earn points using your credit card. Jeff recommends that he choose his destination at least seven months in advance. This timeline allows you to accumulate the reward points you need and access a variety of flight options, giving you flexibility and efficiency in your travel plans.
Step 2: Research your flight
Another benefit of planning months in advance is that you can find the cheapest flight prices and maximize your points. Tailor your flight search based on your location to find airlines with competitive prices and availability in your area. Southwest Airlines and American Airlines are solid choices, but other airlines have had success as well. Use the calendar view on an airline's website to see the lowest prices for your desired month. If your initial search results are unsatisfactory, consider adjusting your travel itinerary or considering another airport that may save you money.
Step 3: Find a credit card sign-up bonus of at least 50,00 points or miles
A credit card sign-up bonus is your ticket to a free flight. Aim for a bonus of at least 50,000 points or miles, as bonuses can have significant monetary value when redeemed for airline tickets. Keep checking reputable websites like nerdwallet.com and thepointsguy.com for the latest credit card offers, and don't delay in applying as these promotions often have limited availability.
Credit card options to get started
A Advantage Aviator Mastercard: Earn 60,000 AAdvantage Miles in the first 90 days after your first purchase. There's no annual fee for the first year, and the first checked bag fee on domestic flights for you and up to four other people is waived.
chase united airlines explorer card: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months. Get your first year's annual fee waived, your first domestic checked bag fee free for you and your companion, and up to $100 in TSA PreCheck statement credits.
When choosing a card, be sure to evaluate the first sign-up bonus, annual fee, reputation of the card issuer, etc. before making your decision. Personally, I'm looking for a card that waives the annual fee for the first 12 months, like the two cards I suggested above, but offers like this are becoming less common. I am.
Step 4: Maintain or improve your credit score
Approval for most travel rewards cards requires a credit score of at least 690. Keep your credit score up to date by getting a free annual credit report from the three major credit bureaus at annualcreditreport.com. Regular inspections ensure that everything is correct and allow you to catch problems early.
Additionally, Jeff typically cancels his travel rewards credit card by the end of the first year after his trip ends. That way you can avoid the annual fee. As long as he has at least one other credit card with a three-year credit history, canceling his Travel Rewards card won't have a big impact on his overall credit score. For a better understanding of how credit scores work and tips on how to improve your credit score, visit thepennyhoarder.com.
Step 5: Earn your bonus
Meeting your credit card bonus spending requirements can be accomplished by redirecting your monthly spending to your new card. Beyond your daily purchases, consider making larger purchases within the first three months. Again, you need to use your card responsibly, including paying off your balance in full each month to avoid paying interest.
Step 6: Redeem your points
Once the bonus is credited to your account, consider the various redemption options your card offers. Some cards offer better redemption bonuses when you book through your credit card issuer's website, but most benefits are redeemed directly through your mileage account and the airline's website. When booking, be sure to check alternative dates and flight times to get the best value for your points. Book your selected flights now to secure the lowest prices and travel dates.
Notes on traveling abroad
This method works well for most domestic flights. You can also use points to book international flights, but the process is more complicated. For more information on international flights and additional tips to take your travel hacking to the next level, check out Jeff's super short e-book. 15 minute guide to free flights.
Bottom line: Your first free flight is just the beginning
Trying travel hacking can certainly be scary, but we have everything you need to take the first step. With a little planning, research, and strategic spending, free flights are completely within your reach. And the best part is that this isn't a one-time thing for him and can continue. When you win a free flight ticket, you may realize that you too are a travel hacker.
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