Which airline gives more miles for international flights?

When it comes to traveling internationally, one of the perks that frequent flyers often look forward to is earning miles or points that can be redeemed for future flights or other benefits. These miles can add up quickly, allowing you to enjoy free or discounted travel in the future. But not all airlines are created equal when it comes to rewarding their passengers with miles.

In this blog post, we'll explore which airlines give you more miles for international flights and how you can make the most of your loyalty program memberships.

What are the top Airlines for Earning miles?

Delta SkyMiles

Delta Airlines is known for its generous miles program, SkyMiles. Passengers can earn miles not only for flights but also for using Delta's co-branded credit cards and participating in partner programs. The number of miles earned depends on your elite status within the SkyMiles program, but generally, Delta is a strong contender in the miles game.

American Airlines Advantage

American Airlines offers the AAdvantage program, which allows passengers to earn miles for flights and partner activities. American Airlines also has a vast network of international partners, making it easier to earn miles on international routes.

United MileagePlus

United Airlines' MileagePlus program is another popular choice for international travelers. It offers a wide range of options to earn miles, including flights, co-branded credit cards, and partner programs. United's extensive route network also makes it a strong candidate for international flights. The top rank determines the priority approval of the United Airlines Seat upgrade from Economy to Business or higher class.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

While Alaska Airlines might not be as big as some of the major carriers, its Mileage Plan is highly regarded among frequent flyers. Alaska Airlines has partnerships with several international airlines, allowing you to earn miles on a variety of routes.

Emirates Skywards

If you frequently travel to or from the Middle East, Emirates Skywards can be a lucrative program. Emirates is known for its luxurious flights, and the Skywards program offers substantial miles-earning opportunities for premium cabins.

How to choose the Best Flights?

Choosing the best flights for your upcoming trip is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. With numerous airlines, routes, and fare options available, making the right choice can be overwhelming.

Set Your Budget:- Before you start searching for flights, determine your budget. Knowing how much you're willing to spend will help you filter out options that are beyond your financial means.

Choose Your Travel Dates Wisely:- Be flexible with your travel dates if possible. Sometimes flying a day or two earlier or later can result in significant cost savings. Use fare comparison websites or apps to find the cheapest days to fly.

Select Your Destination Airport:- Consider nearby airports, especially if you're traveling to a major city with multiple airports. Sometimes, flying into a secondary airport can be more cost-effective.

Nonstop vs. Connecting Flights:- Decide whether you prefer nonstop flights or are open to connecting flights. Nonstop flights are more convenient but can be pricier. Connecting flights might be cheaper but could extend your travel time.

Flight Duration:- Check the flight duration, especially for long-haul flights. Factor in your tolerance for longer flights and potential jet lag when making your decision.

Choosing the best flights for your journey involves careful consideration of factors such as budget, convenience, and personal preferences.

What are the Strategies to maximize the miles?

Now that you know which airlines are more generous with miles, let's explore some strategies to maximize your miles earnings:

Join Frequent Flyer Programs: Sign up for the frequent flyer programs of the airlines you often use. This is the first step to start earning miles.

Use Co-Branded Credit Cards: Many airlines offer co-branded credit cards that give you bonus miles for everyday spending. Consider getting one if you're loyal to a particular airline.

Choose the Right Fare Class: When booking a flight, pay attention to the fare class. Some fare classes earn more miles than others, so select one that aligns with your mileage goals.

Take Advantage of Promotions: Airlines often run promotions that offer bonus miles for specific routes or during certain periods. Keep an eye out for these deals.

Utilize Partner Airlines: Look for opportunities to earn miles through partner airlines and alliances. For example, if you're a member of a Star Alliance program, you can earn miles on any Star Alliance airline.

Plan Mileage Runs: Some travelers intentionally take flights solely to earn miles. This is known as a "mileage run." If you have the time and flexibility, it can be a fun way to accumulate miles quickly.

Conclusion

Earning miles for international flights is a fantastic way to make your travel experiences more rewarding. While there are several airlines with generous miles programs, it's important to choose one that aligns with your travel preferences and goals. Additionally, implementing smart strategies like using co-branded credit cards and taking advantage of promotions can help you maximize your miles earnings.