Ask Randy

Randy Petersen answers reader questions about how to maximize travel-related loyalty programs.

Dear Randy,Where can I find information on how many miles I need to get different services (free ticket, upgrade, etc.) in different programs?
I can think of three places for this information offhand. It depends on whether you are seeking just the details of each program, advice on how to use the programs or a general guide somewhere in the middle.

Let’s start with the most obvious: the actual frequent flier program. Here you will find in black and white the details of the program. You’ll find award charts, listings of partners and the rules of the program. The downside is that you’ll have to visit each of the Web sites of the various airlines to collect this information, and at the end of the day, you’ll have to sit down, go over the information and decide on your own what it all means. It can be a daunting task.

Another suggestion might be to visit various Web sites that have been blessings for members such as yourself. These Web sites often have information with comments comparing the programs. Many even feature chat boards, which will allow you to ask questions, speed up your education and help you discover which programs might be the best value for you. These Web sites come in all sizes and shapes, but three that I recommend are webflyer.com, frequentflier.com and flyertalk.com. Each is different, and I’m positive you’ll find the answers and advice you are looking for.

And finally, there is something in the middle.

Flyertalk.com sponsors a growing encyclopedia of frequent flier information called the FlyerTalk Wiki. Essentially, it is an online repository of frequent flier knowledge contributed by members of various frequent flier programs. You’ll find listings of award charts and many other types of information that you might not find on the other sites. I would suggest going there first, since it will help you understand the lingo of how and why these programs work. That way, when seeing information on an airline’s Web site or asking another frequent flier a question, you’ll feel more comfortable. The Wiki can be found online at flyertalk.com/wiki.

Ask Randy.

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RANDY PETERSEN is publisher of Inside Flyer magazine and is president of Frequent Flyer Services. Email Randy at editor@executivetravelmag.com.