
Points and miles have become the savvy traveler’s secret weapon, making free flights and luxury stays within reach. But is it all smooth sailing? While scoring a free trip sounds amazing, the world of rewards programs can be tricky to navigate. Let’s break down the pros and cons of using points and miles, so you can decide if it’s truly worth chasing those perks.
Pro: Free or Discounted Travel

One of the best perks of using points and miles is scoring free or deeply discounted flights, hotels, or car rentals. It’s a great way to stretch your budget and allow you to enjoy experiences that might otherwise be out of reach without the added cost.
Con: Limited Availability

While points can get you amazing travel deals, award seats and hotel rooms are often limited. Popular destinations or dates have little to no availability, forcing you to book further in advance or adjust your plans to find something that works.
Pro: You Can Avoid Paying Taxes and Fees

Some points and miles programs cover not just the base fare but also taxes and fees. This can save you even more money and leave you with a truly “free” trip. However, some programs still require you to cover taxes, so it’s important to check in advance.
Con: Restrictions and Blackout Dates

Many reward programs come with restrictions, including blackout dates around holidays or peak travel seasons. This can make it tricky to use your points when you want to, as the most desirable dates may be off-limits.
Pro: You Can Travel in Luxury

Using points and miles for upgrades is an excellent way to fly first class or stay in five-star hotels without breaking the bank. These premium experiences become much more accessible when you can use rewards instead of cash.
Con: Risk of Devaluation

Reward programs often devalue points over time, which means your points won’t go as far in the future. It’s a gamble—waiting too long to use them could mean needing more points for the same rewards, so it’s wise to redeem them sooner rather than later.
Pro: You Can Enjoy Perks Beyond Flights and Hotels

Points and miles aren’t just for flights or accommodations. Some programs let you redeem for experiences like concert tickets, tours, or dining, adding even more value. This flexibility enables you to customize your travel experience to suit your interests.
Con: Complicated Redemption Process

Redeeming points can sometimes be more complex than paying cash. With varying reward charts, multiple airline partners, and confusing rules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Research and patience are key to guiding these hurdles.
Pro: No Interest or Debt Incurred

Unlike paying for travel with a credit card that racks up interest, using points means no debt. You’re spending rewards you’ve already earned, so there’s no risk of financial strain later on—just the joy of enjoying your trip.
Con: Earning Takes Time

Building up a significant points or miles balance doesn’t happen overnight. It can take months or even years of careful planning, spending, and saving to accumulate enough rewards for a trip. This slow process requires dedication and patience.
Pro: Reward Credit Cards Offer Big Bonuses

Many travel credit cards come with large sign-up bonuses that can give your points balance a massive boost right from the start. These bonuses often translate into free flights or hotel stays after meeting a minimum spending requirement.
Con: Annual Fees

Most of the best points-earning credit cards come with annual fees. While the rewards can outweigh the cost if you travel often, it’s important to consider whether the card’s benefits are worth the price for your particular situation.
Pro: Flexibility in Booking

Points and miles often provide more flexibility in booking than traditional cash tickets. You might be able to change or cancel a reward booking with little to no fees. This gives you peace of mind if your travel plans shift unexpectedly.
Con: Hidden Fees and Surcharges

Some airlines or hotels charge hidden fees when booking with points, such as fuel surcharges or resort fees. These extra costs can take up the savings you expect to get from using points, so always check for these fees ahead of time.
Pro: Travel Insurance Benefits

Certain rewards credit cards offer travel insurance, covering you for delays, cancellations, or lost luggage when you book with points. This added protection can provide peace of mind to ensure that your trip is covered even if things go wrong.