The debt gate applies double here
Travel cards carry the highest fees and rates. Carrying a balance for miles is paying 22% for a 2% souvenir. Full rule on the rewards page.
Flexible points beat single-airline jail
Bank points that transfer to many partners keep leverage; single-program miles devalue at the program's whim.
Fare alerts beat point hoards
A $49 fare sale outruns most redemptions. Deal newsletters and flexible dates are the real elite status.
Hotel loyalty pays mid-tier
Free-night certificates and fifth-night-free perks arrive at attainable tiers for ordinary travelers.