coupons affiliate programs

By admin, January 28, 2010 6:08 pm

Are frequent flyer programs worth the hassle?

I do maybe about 15,000 miles of flying every year on all different airlines. Generally, my tendency has been to look for cheap flights on Orbitz or Kayak and book those- this has resulted in me flying many different airlines just a few times each but saving a lot on each ticket.

I signed up for frequent flyer programs for AA, Continental, and US Airways. I noticed that these programs also give points for making purchases through affiliates (like 1800flowers) and dining at certain restaurants.

However, I am looking for some advice as to whether these programs are worthwhile. Say I buy some flowers and earn triple points. So I’ve earned 150 points, but that doesn’t count for much in these programs. I almost feel like I am better off scouting the web for sales, coupons, and discounts than by trying to rack up frequent flyer miles and using them.

Do you guys agree? Am I missing something?

These programs are pretty good if you have the opportunity to use them when you earn them.

As far as earning more through affiliates like 1800flowers, it is not usually the best deal for you. Often, those deals you get pale in the comparison to the offers and coupons you can get outside of your frequent flier program. There are some that have terms and conditions that ban you from using coupons.

Obritz and other fare-savings websites are a great place to start. You will get great deals through them. Use a coupon site like http://www.24houredeals.com/home/ to save on your purchases through affiliates like 1800 flowers. They will get you 15% off your 1800flowers purchase. Something you may not have an opportunity to save if you use your frequent flier program. That way you save now, not later.

Do the math on your savings and pick the best program. I have seen several FF programs that do not allow this stacking, or you need to go through customer service to secure them, and that can be a severe headache.

Good Luck.

Legacy Learning Systems Affiliate Coupons in the ShareASale Network