Ask Randy

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

Dear Randy,
I am currently evaluating frequent flier programs. I will be flying between New Jersey and Utah a couple times a month for the next six to eight months. I would appreciate your recommendations very much.

Your choice of airlines will probably be among Continental, Delta and Northwest, using airfare as a consideration. I recommend these three because they all are part of an alliance that will allow you to fly any of them and earn miles into a single frequent flier program. Do not split your miles among the airlines.

Because you’re going to be in the New Jersey area, it’s easy to recommend the Continental OnePass program, but because Salt Lake City is a hub for Delta, you might find better service there.

Of course, the answer would not be complete without knowing who’s paying for the ticket. If you’re personally paying, you may try and link to a low-cost carrier, though that would likely mean a very long day of connections. If your business is paying, then generally speaking, the schedule of service will be important, and thus my starting advice might work best for you.

The reason for recommending the first strategy is that you’ll have options for redeeming miles among the various airlines, options for comparing airfares and options for scheduling that fits you best—all with the luxury of having your mileage in a single account. Whether you choose SkyMiles, WorldPerks or OnePass is a personal choice based on what feels good to you, but remember, you really do not need to belong to the frequent flier program of the particular airline you are flying.

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.