Travel Hacks

Quick Summary on Combine Miles Across Programs Strategy vs. Direct Transfers: You cannot move miles directly between competitor airlines (e.g., American AAdvantage to Delta SkyMiles) The “Central Hub” Method: The optimal strategy …

Quick Summary of Airline Alliances and Partners The Concept: Airline alliances allow you to earn miles, redeem points, and enjoy elite perks across different airlines as if they were one global carrier. …

Quick Summary: The Efficiency Report The Gist: Hilton has integrated ~400 Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) properties. This opens up boutique luxury (formerly Hyatt’s turf) to Hilton’s massive point ecosystem. The ROI: While …

Quick Summary The Verdict: Hilton Honors points are worth less on paper (~0.5 cents) than competitors like Hyatt, but they are significantly easier to earn. The 2025 Sweet Spot: The integration with …

Quick Summary What they are: Fuel surcharges (YQ/YR) are arbitrary “carrier-imposed fees” that are rarely tied to actual oil prices. The Solution: The key to avoiding them is changing the loyalty program …

Quick Summary of the Marriott Bonvoy Program Marriott Bonvoy is the world’s largest hotel loyalty program, but size equals complexity. Here is the high-level system overview for 2025: Valuation: Aim for 0.7¢ …

Quick Summary: Top 3 Airport System Failures to Avoid Navigating an airport is a process with predictable failure points. After traveling through hundreds of airports in 62 countries, I’ve seen them all. …

Quick Summary: Apple Digital ID You can now add your U.S. passport to your Apple Wallet (on iPhone or Apple Watch) and use it for identity verification at select U.S. airport checkpoints. …

Quick Summary: The best programs for business class to Asia are Flying Blue, Singapore KrisFlyer, ANA Mileage Club, Air Canada Aeroplan, Alaska Atmos Rewards (formerly Mileage Plan), American AAdvantage, and Cathay Pacific …

Quick Summary: Your Qantas Program Playbook This Guide to Qantas Frequent Flyer program will show you that it is often misunderstood by travelers outside of Australia but I see it as a …