Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! 🌍✈️ Today, let’s chat about a topic that has been my secret weapon for over two decades – 3 steps to building points and miles to roam the world for free. Trust me, it’s not rocket science; it just takes a bit of discipline and a nifty travel credit card or two or maybe three. Much has been written over the years from every travel writer out there, even though I have read these articles, I wouldn’t change my approach to how I build miles. The only thing I would do differently is to get more travel cards.
Table of Contents
Step 1 – Get a good travel credit card for your favorite airline or hotel brand
Step 2 – Use it as your ATM card and purchase everything with it.
Step 3 – Discipline is Key
Travel Credit Cards
So, step one: Get yourself a good travel credit card. Back in the late ’90s, my journey began with the Delta SkyMiles American Express. The sign-up bonus (SUB) was a cool 30,000 miles, and it kickstarted my mileage adventure. Patience is key; wait for a card with a substantial SUB to make it worth your while and offset that annual fee. Personally, I’ve been loyal to Delta, but feel free to explore cards from your favorite airlines or hotel chains. I’ll drop some links in this article for cards that have treated me well.
Eiffel Tower
Companion Cards
Now, here’s a pro-tip: Grab a companion card if you can. With my Delta Amex, I got one for my wife without any extra annual fees. Eventually, I even snagged a second for work expenses, keeping my purchases neat and tidy. By doing this I was on my way to building points and miles.
Niagara Falls, Canada (HorseShoe Falls)
Use it As an ATM Card
Step two: let’s not forget your trusty ATM card. I ditched my ATM card in favor of using my credit card for everything. American Express offers some fantastic protection perks, making it a no-brainer for me. Triple miles at the gas pump and double miles at the grocery store? Count me in!
Discipline is Key
Step three: folks, let’s talk about the magic word: discipline. Using my card for every purchase meant I sometimes faced a scary balance when the statement hit. To dodge those finance fees, I developed a habit of paying off my balance every week. Sure, it required a bit of tracking, but it became a breeze. Remember, you don’t have to pay it off weekly, but it worked wonders for me.
Now, why start now? Because there’s never a better time! Don’t procrastinate; the sooner you start, the more miles you’ll rack up. While I’ve raved about my Delta SkyMiles Amex, I’ve got a lineup of other travel cards in my arsenal – Chase Sapphire Reserve for lounge access, Bank of America Travel Card for years, and the Hilton Honors Amex for comfy hotel stays. I divide my usage wisely to maximize those free tickets.
Read my Beginner’s Guide to better understand the process. So, buckle up, folks! It’s time to build up those points and embark on your own epic travel adventures. Happy roaming! 🌟✨
Great post!