I use to be the kind of flyer who always chose whichever flight was the cheapest. I did not look at how long it took, how many stops or cared which airline I used. This all changed when I learned all the benefits that came with sticking to one airline or at least one points program. Did you know you can fly business class for free and get free access to lounges just by sticking to one airline? I didn’t! Once I learned this, I never went back to flying whichever flight was the cheapest.
I still remember the first time I flew business class. It really was life changing. It was a flight back from Hong Kong to Vancouver and I decided to pay for an upgrade for my husband and I as a birthday gift to him. The upgrade was expensive but being able to fly flat in a bed on a 13 hour flight was truly amazing. We were fed incredible hot meals, great drinks, and I actually got to sleep. After that, I knew I had to find ways to fly business class that I could afford. This is when I learned the importance of sticking to one airline.
Most airlines have a points program. I am a member of Air Canada’s Aeroplan program which is part of a larger group of airline points program called Star Alliance. By sticking to one airline or airline group such as Star Alliance you get extra benefits at most airports around the world where those airlines fly. These benefits included priority checkin, priority boarding, free seat selection, access to lounges, priority security clearance, and of course free upgrades. As an Aeroplan member, you collect points for every mile flown. You also gain points when you fly other airlines that are associated with the large group, Star Alliance. Once you reach a certain level, you get benefits. With Aeroplan, there are 5 levels- Altitude 25, 35, 50, 75 and 100. Your level is based on the miles you fly. Once you reach the first tier, you start getting benefits such as credits to use to upgrade your flights, access to lounges, bonus miles and free luggage. See their website here. These benefits make a world of difference when traveling. Getting access to lounges for free make being at the airport a lot more comfortable. They have free food and drinks and usually have showers where you can freshen up ahead of time. I also enjoy having the priority boarding so you know you will always have room for your carryon. Sticking to one airline or airline group helps with collecting points quickly. Not only do you get benefits while you fly, you can use the points to redeem flights and hotels. The last trip my husband and I went on, we flew business class completely for free using our points. Sticking to one airline really has changed they way I travel and has made flying a lot more comfortable.
P.S. There are many airlines points programs. Stick to the airline that you use the most or have access to where you live!
XOXO,
-D
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