Traveling can put a strain on finances, prompting many to seek ways to economize on trips. One popular strategy involves leveraging rewards programs to offset costs. However, the challenge remains in determining the most advantageous program among travel credit cards, hotel rewards, and frequent flyer schemes. A recent WalletHub study seeks to illuminate this path by evaluating the top 10 domestic airlines’ loyalty programs across 21 metrics, such as reward point value and blackout-date practices, offering clarity to prospective travelers.
Recognizing the diverse travel habits of consumers, WalletHub assesses these programs across three airfare budget levels, acknowledging that rewards are not universally applicable. Their research shows that the most effective frequent flyer programs are adaptable, catering to various traveler needs. The study includes a calculator where travelers can input their annual flight expenditure to discover the leading frequent flyer programs suited to their budget.
Best Overall Frequent Flyer Programs
According to the study, the top five frequent flyer programs for 2025 are:
- Alaska Airlines – Mileage Plan
- United Airlines – MileagePlus
- Delta Airlines – SkyMiles
- Hawaiian Airlines – HawaiianMiles
- American Airlines – AAdvantage
Destinations Offered
The quantity of destinations each airline covers varies, which might influence some travelers’ decisions. Although Alaska Airlines secured the top spot, it serves 128 destinations. In contrast, United Airlines offers 365, Delta provides 312, Hawaiian serves 30, and American leads with 406 destinations. Despite ranking second overall, United Airlines excels in destination availability, offering significantly more options than Alaska Airlines.
A Closer Look at Where Each Program Shines
Each airline rewards program offers unique benefits. United MileagePlus is renowned for its extensive domestic and international coverage. Delta SkyMiles, while not excelling in any single area, consistently performs well. HawaiianMiles stands out for its reward value and membership perks, whereas American AAdvantage is distinguished by its comprehensive airline coverage.
Which Programs Offer the Best Value?
Hawaiian Airlines delivers the best value, offering $12.55 per $100 spent, followed by Frontier Airlines at $11.75, and Southwest Airlines at $9.95. Hawaiian’s rewards remain consistent regardless of budget size. In contrast, Frontier and Southwest’s values decline significantly for average and light travelers.
Overall, frequent flyer programs have generally reduced value this year. Among the largest airlines, only JetBlue, Spirit, and Hawaiian have increased reward value for 2025 compared to the previous year.
Miles Expiration
Not all programs treat reward miles equally. Some expire due to inactivity within 12 to 36 months. However, programs from Alaska, Delta, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Southwest, and United do not expire, favoring long-term planners.
Other Factors to Consider
Programs from American, Delta, United, and Alaska prioritize members when determining who gets bumped from overbooked flights. Additionally, Alaska, United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, and JetBlue allow mile earning and redemption with partner carriers. Many programs offer the purchase of points, but it’s noteworthy that bought miles often cost significantly more than their earned value, with Delta, United, and Frontier having the highest markups.
Customer Service
Customer service remains a crucial factor outside loyalty rewards. Delta Airlines is recognized for its flexibility and responsiveness, contributing to the attractiveness of its rewards program despite not leading in individual categories.
Airline Rewards Programs in the Future
Looking ahead, airline rewards programs are expected to evolve with technological advancements. Increased personalization through AI will likely enhance the benefits tied to individual travel and purchase behaviors, along with providing a superior digital experience.
Choosing a Rewards Program
It’s vital to choose a rewards program that aligns with personal travel habits and financial goals. Utilizing tools like the WalletHub calculator and reviewing study data can offer valuable insights and contribute to more cost-effective travel planning.
Understanding the Impact
- Participation in a well-suited frequent flyer program can significantly reduce travel expenses, making vacations more affordable.
- Comprehensive destination coverage by certain airlines offers greater flexibility and options for travelers.
- The evolving nature of rewards programs, influenced by technology, promises more personalized and efficient user experiences in the future.
- Frequent flyer programs that do not expire points can offer long-term value and peace of mind for travelers who fly infrequently.
- Excellent customer service, as exemplified by Delta, can greatly enhance the overall travel experience, making loyalty programs more appealing.
