A common adage among frequent flyers and points and miles fans is “earn ’em and burn ’em.” This philosophy centers around the fact that these currencies rarely appreciate in value the way traditional investments might. Instead, they almost always diminish in value as airline loyalty programs raise the price of awards over time—so you might as well spend them right off the bat.
Recent news from the United States Senate has some travelers up in arms over the implications of the Durbin-Marshall credit card bill (as in, a bill about credit cards, not a literal credit card bill). The Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to host a public hearing regarding the proposed legislation on April 9—and the CEOs of Visa, Mastercard, United Airlines, and American Airlines have been invited to testify.
The bill, if passed, could put into jeopardy the ability to earn credit card rewards in the same fashion we do today. This could affect the more than three-quarters of Americans who possess and use credit card rewards, according to recent survey data from the US Tourism Economy Alliance. While experts see the bill as something of a long shot (airlines and hotels rely heavily on credit card partnerships to drive profits), it could still spook some travelers into using their points and miles earnings sooner rather than later. Hey, it’s as fair a reason as any to stop waiting and book that trip you’ve been thinking of.
To get you started, here’s what you need to know about April 2024’s latest points and miles deals and how to refill (or top up) your balance along the way.
Points and miles bonus opportunities
IHG One Rewards wants to plump up your account with extra points this spring. For every two eligible nights spent at an IHG property between now and the end of April, members can earn 2,000 bonus points. There is no limit to the number of points you can earn with this promotion, but be sure to register first. Extra points can really help if you want to check into some of the brand’s newest openings like the InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa in the Caribbean or the new Kimpton Aysla Mallorca in Spain.
And now that IHG has opened its third Atwell Suites property, IHG’s loyalty program has another reward for travelers that visit. For stays between now and May 31, guests can register to earn triple points at Atwell Suites, in addition to EVEN Hotels, avid hotels, or Garner, an IHG hotel, properties.
Hilton Honors fans should keep an eye on the brand’s numerous new hotel openings in the works. That’s because members can earn 1,000 bonus points per night at select properties, or 5,000 points for a stay of at least three nights. Check to see what new hotels are available in your destination using this search tool.
Need more Virgin points? Capital One is offering a 30% transfer bonus for moving miles from its program to Virgin Red between now and the end of April. If Flying Blue miles are what you need for an upcoming award redemption, Chase Ultimate Rewards is offering a 25% bonus for moving points to its mileage program.
Changes to credit card perks (good and bad)
Unfortunately, Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders will see a cut to their Priority Pass benefits by the end of June. Airport restaurant credits will no longer be included as a benefit for those that have Priority Pass through this credit card. However, it will still include access to nearly 1,300 traditional airport lounges.
