How to Travel Cheaply with Miles, Points, and Flexibility

For many travelers, the idea of jetting off to new destinations feels out of reach because of high flight and hotel costs. But with a little strategy, you can unlock big savings by using airline miles, hotel points, companion tickets, and a willingness to be flexible with your dates.

1. Leverage Airline Miles

Sign up for frequent flyer programs even if you don’t fly often. Miles add up through credit card sign-up bonuses, everyday purchases, and promotions. Redeeming them for flights—especially international or business class tickets—can save you hundreds or even thousands.

If....and ONLY IF...you're disciplined enough to pay off your spend EVERY month....use credit cards that provide points or miles for airlines or hotels. This helps build status in some cases and almost always provides some additional benefit in accumulation of either a point or mile that helps you save money later. If you're going to spend 10 dollars....why not get 10 mile/points as well.

But again.....BE DISCIPLINED. If you have to put the money in a cookie jar each day, write a check to the card company as soon as you're home....just don't let it be a way to make you feel like you have more money than you do!

2. Maximize Hotel Points

Hotels run loyalty programs much like airlines do. Collect points by staying within the same brand family or through co-branded credit cards. Look out for free-night certificates, which often come as part of annual credit card perks, and try “points + cash” bookings for added flexibility.

The same thing we listed for the airlines above applies to hotels. In recent years, the redemption ratios have made this less desireable to us but we still utilize it for short stays from time to time. Hilton has overvalued their points to the point (pun intended) that it's almost impossible to use them at any popular destination.

3. Don’t Forget Companion Tickets

Many airlines and credit card programs offer annual companion passes. These tickets let a partner, friend, or family member fly with you for free or just the cost of taxes and fees. Used wisely, this perk can cut your airfare costs in half.

Now this is an area we're very familiar with. We're Delta flyers and both of us (husband/wife) have their reserve card. Not gonna lie, it's an expensive sucker. I think the last renewal for EACH of them was $695. Now I know what you're thinking...."you're both idiots".....and while there could be an argument for that.....let me explain.

EACH of those cards comes with a yearly companion ticket for a first class ticket in all 50 U.S. states, the carribean, Mexico and Central America. To put that in perspective, a first class ticket to Honolulu from our home airport runs between $1800 and a bazillion dollars dependng on when you go. And we have two of these certificates. They work for regualr coach tickets as well and while the value isn't met usualy when purchasing the lower fares, it still works out when you consider many of the other perks the card offers...including lounge access at Skyclubs and Centurion lounges.

4. Stay Flexible on Dates and Destinations

Being rigid about when and where you travel is often the most expensive way to book. Instead, use tools like Google Flights or Hopper to explore the cheapest dates to fly. Sometimes shifting your trip by just a day or two can save hundreds.

This has to be the biggest factor. You have to be able to work your schedule to travel when prices are lowest (off seasons or undersold properties or flights. If you're expecting to vacation at a nice resort over a major holiday, you should probably consider adjusting your expectations if you think that's going to be the bargain of the century.

Final Thoughts

Travel doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By combining miles, points, companion tickets, and a flexible mindset, you can unlock opportunities to explore the world at a fraction of the cost. With a little planning, your dream trip may be much closer—and cheaper—than you think.

Get creative and talk to other travelers. Everyone knows something that might be useful at some point.