When I go on vacation I like to maximize my comfort and the best way I have found to do that is to get high or highest tier status on the platforms you intend to uses services on such as airlines, hotels, and clubs.
I recently traveled for most of April and was amazed about how much of my comfort came from the travel ‘ecosystem’ perks I built so I decided I’d share some of that strategy although I won’t be too specific because when there is too much of a good thing, hordes of people tend to ruin it.
Clubs
The beginning of any journey usually begins with a stop at a busy, smelly, and chaotic airport. The few places I have found to escape the madness is often a club lounge at the airport. There are a few credit cards that offer access to club lounges and you’ll need to do your own research as to what best fits your needs, geography, airlines, and credit card accessibility.
When I travel I usually stop at the club lounge. Most lounges offer coffee, soft drinks and alcohol to their patrons and most also offer free food. If you’ve missed breakfast, lunch or dinner, these lounges can be a money saver since airport restaurants prices always have a premium due to captive audiences. Each visit easily saves $30+ in food & beverage especially if you have a companion or kids.
Airlines
After my stop at the lounge, I will hop on the plane. Some credit cards offer perks on priority boarding or free baggage. Since most airlines now charge upwards of $100 for bags, this perk easily pays for any airlines credit card annual fee. Some cards also pay for global entry and have monthly credits for dining out or using ride sharing services. Some cards now come with Instacart free for one year or similar services. Again, these perks pay for themselves if you use the services that are bundled with it. If you travel more than once a year, the benefits often pay for themselves.
Hotels
My favorite perk are hotel upgrades. On recent hotel stays I was upgraded to large corner suites with amazing views of the places visited. Additionally, the hotels often have a lounge that offers free booze and Hors d’Oeuvres or even light dinners. My stays usually include free breakfast buffets and adding it all up accounts for $1000 or more in free food during my stays.
Point Accumulation
The best part though is the accumulation of points which can be redeemed for free hotel nights, free flights, or other things like free car rentals.
Resources
Which ecosystems is right for you depends on which city/state/country/continent you live in and where you travel to frequently. I don’t recommend credit cards here because the perks and ecosystem that works for me probably won’t work for you but below is where you can learn more.
The Points Guy – Great starting point.
Flyer Talk – Great discussions on perks, pros and cons, and earning points/status.
Share The Wealth
Do you play the points game? Let me know in the comments below.