5 things frequent fliers should be doing right now, before it's too late
As the year rounds out its last two months, frequent fliers shouldn't let the last day of 2015 creep up on them. If you're aiming for elite status with an airline or simply stretching out the last few benefits that come with upgrade vouchers, the end of the year is an important marker to keep in mind.
1. Lock in status for next year. While elite status with an airline typically runs through the end of January, the period to qualify for the next year's status has a deadline of the strike of midnight on January 1. If you want to secure status for next year, review the rules for your airline's elite program. Many now require you to meet a minimum spend with the carrier in addition to the amount of miles flown. Airlines like Delta and United have made their programs a bit more confusing with these requirements, and some travelers may be caught next year with no elite status because they did not pour through the new rules of these programs. Take a look now while you still have enough time to complete the requirements; you may need to take a mileage run before the year is over.
2. Take note of your benefits. Many elite programs come with goodies like advance upgrade certificates, drink coupons, and lounge passes (many credit card companies offer these, too). ThePointsGuy has a cool feature that allows members to swap (it is against the rules to sell) these benefits with other travelers. Take stock of what you have, and if you can't use it, there may be a better home for it. And you may be able to score something that could be of use to you, too!
3. Say thank you. As the holidays approach (and things get crazy busy at the airport), take some time to say thank you to those employees that you see regularly. A note or small present is a nice gesture, but many airlines and hotels also provide "thank you certificates" to elite-level members. Rummage through your desk drawer, it's likely you received some from airlines and hotels, and they may expire before the end of the year. Might as well stock up on some goodwill, too.
4. Audit your account.ThePointsGuy offers another important tip. Fliers should review their accounts to make sure they received the points and miles that they rightfully earned. You may think you were credited with what you were supposed to receive, but things can go awry. This can also affect your status level for next year, so be sure to review your accounts and keep hold of receipts and boarding passes until points post.
5. Strategize for the year to come. Elite status and benefits don't just happen. They can sometimes take a little advance planning to get those perks flowing. Decide your goals for the next year, and plan accordingly. Want to shift gears and drop your loyalty program that just devalued and switched to revenue based for one that , still awards miles based upon distance flown? Want to get the Southwest companion pass? Want to take advantage of promotions offered by hotels and airlines through the end of the year? Start planning now.