Alright, award trail aficionados, let's dive into today's happenings in the world of points, miles, and deals! It's a mixed bag of opportunities, from celebrating loyalty program anniversaries to dodging point expirations and stacking savings on everyday purchases. Are you ready to maximize your rewards?
First up, Flying Blue is turning 20 and throwing a HUGE party! A million points and miles are up for grabs. Seriously, could you even imagine what kind of trips that could cover! And Wyndham is offering easy status matches, potentially unlocking valuable perks like free breakfast and room upgrades. These hotel status matches are super valuable, especially if you already have status with another program. Don't sleep on these opportunities – free travel is the best travel!
On the other side of the coin, it's time for a points and miles health check! MGM Rewards members need to keep a close eye on their balances to avoid losing hard-earned points. This underscores the importance of staying active in your loyalty programs, even if it's just a small transaction. A little planning can prevent a lot of disappointment and lost value. We've also got SoFi giving away bonus cash, Instacart e-gift cards on sale at Sam's Club, and fee-free Visa gift cards popping up at Staples. The theme? Stacking savings and maximizing rewards on everyday spending. These are the kinds of small wins that can really add up over time.
Speaking of everyday spending, Staples is offering fee-free Visa gift cards, a golden opportunity to manufacture spend and earn rewards on purchases you'd make anyway! It's like getting paid to shop. And for those looking for a new checking account, Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust (Maxx) is offering a sweet $300 bonus, but it's currently limited to Iowa residents. Keep an eye on this one, though – these offers sometimes expand! Plus, don't forget that Verizon is giving away free Fandango money (again!), and &Pizza is offering a 30-day pizza pass (if you dare!). Always worth checking!
Finally, those wanting to escape the airport chaos, there's a guide to finding and using Escape Lounges. With Amex Platinum in hand, these lounges provide a much-needed oasis, especially in smaller, regional airports. So, what's the takeaway from today's award trail news? Diversification is key. Maximize opportunities to earn bonus points and cash back, but also stay vigilant about points expirations and program changes. Happy trails!