What are Points and Miles?

Points and miles are a magical currency that opens up doors to endless possibilities… well kind of, that’s the short answer.

The longer answer is that points and miles refer to types of reward currencies that are offered by individual loyalty programs. These programs, designed by a variety of companies, use points and miles to incentivise spending with that company, as well as continued loyalty to future spending.

 Different companies offer their individual currency, whether named points, miles, avios, or otherwise. Each currency functions similarly, so for the purpose of this article, think of them as the same.

Where Do They Come From?

Reward currencies are given to consumers by a measure of how much an individual has interacted with the company. For example, some programs give points based on the monetary cost of a purchase such as earning 5 points per dollar spent. Other programs give points based on the number of interactions with the brand such as earning a set number of points for every 3 transactions. Maybe the most logical concept, airlines award miles based on the distance flown.

There are also often partnerships among different companies to reward members of partner programs. For example, an airline might award miles to a airline member who chooses to rent a car with their partner. The limits for these partnerships are endless. From Ubers to coffee to bank accounts, you can likely earn points or miles for using that company’s product. 

Different Loyalty Programs

Some common programs that you may have heard about include American Airlines AAdvantage Miles, United Airlines MileagePlus Miles, World of Hyatt Points, or Marriott Bonvoy Rewards. At the end of the day, these programs collectively function the same way, just with their own quirks and differences. 

It’s these quirks and differences that can make these currencies so rewarding and open up doors to possibilities that would not otherwise be an option for many, if not most, individuals. One can obtain rewards from sources other than just airlines and hotels. However, because the central purpose of this website is to learn new information regarding travel, earning and using hotel points and airline miles will be the primary focus of this blog. 

What Can You Do with Points and Miles?

At the end of the day, the sky’s the limit for the use of points and miles. But, since you can often redeem points and miles for airline tickets, the sky really is the limit.

Points and miles can be used to redeem items such as free coffee, gift cards, event tickets and toasters to lie flat seats on airplanes and overwater bungalows on your next vacation. Sometimes it takes a little bit of strategy, but you can use points and miles to make dreams happen and reach your goals. 

The Last Point

Points and miles are just names for different rewards currencies that can be earned by interacting with a company, and then used for free goods and services (or for a reduced price) with that particular brand or one of their partners.

This blog is dedicated to maximizing points, miles and everyday travel for students and adults alike. Whether your goal is globetrotting in first class or just trying to fly coach to grandma’s house, let me help your travel dreams come true. 

Continue to read along with Nonstop Points, which will open the door to nonstop possibilities. Start earning now!!