#8: Frequent Flier Miles
Sign up for every major airline alliance before you need them. Star Alliance, OneWorld, SkyTeam. Put the membership numbers in your phone's notes app so you can rattle them off at check-in without fumbling through emails. You don't have to fly constantly for this to matter. Miles accumulate slowly, then suddenly you have enough for an upgrade or a free domestic flight. I've gotten lounge access and extra baggage allowance just from having a number on file
It costs nothing to join. The only mistake is not signing up until after you've already flown ten times without tracking anything. Those miles are gone forever. Even if you're not loyal to any particular airline, at least pick the main one for each alliance and start building. Credit cards with travel rewards can accelerate this, but even without that, organic accumulation adds up over years. Check each alliance's website to find member airlines and sign up for their individual frequent flier programs directly.
Star Alliance • OneWorld • SkyTeam
