How I Save Hundreds Annually Through Points Programs and Travel Subscriptions

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As the new year begins, it’s a good time to revisit frequent flyer programs and loyalty memberships. Engaging in this practice not only marks the start of a fresh year but also translates into significant savings and benefits. In the previous year alone, I accumulated over $1,000 in travel rewards and savings through memberships, many of which come at no cost and are specifically created to enhance the travel experience.

Even if you’re not a hardcore points collector, the insights I’ve gathered can assist even the most infrequent travelers in gaining both savings and added value for their journeys.

To start, there are three essentials that I firmly believe in: Clear, Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck. Although these services require a financial investment, I find the time savings justify the costs. Global Entry is valid for five years and includes TSA PreCheck, also good for five years, while Clear requires annual renewal.

Additionally, I recommend investing in a premium travel credit card, specifically the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which comes with a $550 annual fee. Cardholders can quickly offset this cost with up to $300 in travel-related statement credits applicable to diverse expenses like airline tickets, accommodations, car rentals, and cruises. Moreover, the card boasts other exclusive benefits including cell phone protection, luggage coverage, discounts on rentals from companies like Avis, Hertz, and National; plus, free enrollment in Lyft’s premium membership program Pink, yielding discounted rides and expedited pickups.

Airport lounges represent another excellent resource often overlooked. Some credit cards offer access to their lounge networks, and many high-end travel cards provide Priority Pass membership, which includes access to around 1,600 lounges globally. This access has proved invaluable, especially with soaring prices for food and beverages at airports.

In addition, free loyalty programs can yield impressive rewards. For instance, the SkyMiles program from Delta not only provides complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi but also allows me to earn bonus coffee rewards by linking it with my Starbucks Rewards account on flying days. Starbucks also collaborates with Marriott Bonvoy, which features benefits like better rates and free Wi-Fi. Furthermore, my Premier Gold status in United Airlines’ MileagePlus program guarantees me priority service through Avis Preferred.

Another enjoyable benefit is accessing digital materials from my public library through the Libby app. Recently, I downloaded the audiobook of Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing, which I found perfect for my journey to Atlanta.

A Free Option Comparable to Global Entry

For U.S. travelers, there is a valuable, free alternative known as Mobile Passport Control. This service can help expedite the customs process upon returning home from international travels. Initially somewhat obscure, it has gained considerable traction, leading to longer wait times yet remaining a better option than the standard lines. Additionally, if you’re a Global Entry user accompanied by someone who isn’t, having them download this app can be advantageous.

A version of this story first appeared in the February 2025 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline “How to Maximize Your Loyalty Perks.”

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www.travelandleisure.com