by Rob Whitley

Created on: June 26, 2008

Frequent Business Travelers Maximize the Value of Your Frequent Flyer Miles and Hotel Award Points

AIRLINES Get the most from your frequent flyer miles

Traditional airlines are scrambling to survive soaring fuel prices, a weak economy and cheap tickets from the deep discount competitors. This is great news for those of us who are frequent business travelers. Yes, the planes are packed with passengers, restrictive carry-on baggage rules are a pain and flights are rarely on time. I'll address those issues another day. For now, let's look at how to get the most from your frequent flyer miles.

Make reservations using travel awards several months in advance. You may save as much as 50% over points needed for a regular booking. With that much of a discount, it's worth the risk that your plans may change. Fees for changing itineraries or reinstating your points range from $25 to $150 depending on airline and your frequent flyer status.

Leverage the purchasing power of your mileage points. Check the company website for discount promotions and bonus awards. Some last minute flights may be discounted 50% or more even first class. Special offers on the major airlines' websites are updated daily.

Not a Member? The prospect of free travel should in itself be enough to motivate frequent travelers join loyalty programs and become experts in their policies and procedures but there are other benefits worth considering as well:

Occasional free upgrades
Priority boarding
Priority standby
Chances of being bumped from an oversold flight is reduced
Enhanced coach seating with extra legroom and electrical power outlets for laptops
Promotional discounts, introductory offers and bonus points on travel partner products
Un-advertised promotions
Free companion tickets
Exclusive toll-free travel assistance

HOTELS - Free Upgrades and Free Nights are Available. Just ask.

Hoteliers are incredibly creative in their efforts to attract and retain highly valued business travelers. Even if you have no frequent travel status with the hotel you may still be able to obtain an upgraded room or complimentary services and amenities. All you have to do is ask.

Set the tone. At check in, always ask if a complimentary room upgrade is available. By asking this simple question you have distinguished yourself as a seasoned business traveler. The person at the front desk may comply with your request without hesitation, thinking they have an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to superior service toward business people and potentially swing your loyalty from a competitor's program. On the other hand, they may respond that there are no upgrades available. Not to worry. You're not finished yet. Ask details about the room you've been assigned to. Is it close to noisy areas such as elevators, ice machines or meeting rooms? Does the room have a view? Is the bed a king? Unless the hotel is sold out, response will almost always be "let me see what else is available". This line of questioning is particularly effective because the desk person is no longer being pressured to provide an upgrade. They may appear only to be accommodating your personal preferences by giving you a more convenient room. In reality you obtained the complimentary upgrade without spending any points.

If you plan to extend your stay, check the company website in advance for weekend specials, promotional offers and bonus points. Steep cash and points discounts, upgraded rooms and free nights may be available.

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