Loyalty programs can open up travel possibilities
Budget and planning are what keep most of us from achieving our travel goals. That’s why a travel loyalty program can be an interesting option, says Chris Wil
loughby, general manager, brand and member marketing, at Aeroplan. It’s about finding a program that can help you get there, in line with your lifestyle and shopping habits.
“If it requires too much effort, it’s probably not the right program,” he said. “Think of it as a kind of companion, one that provides tips and advice to achieve your travel goal as part of your day-to-day.”
Aeroplan, for instance, launched a web- based goalsetting functionality. When you enter your goals, Aeroplan uses the information to provide custom- tailored advice, i nformation and special offers aimed at helping you reach them more quickly.
But as in other areas of life, planning is key. Willoughby suggests first fine- tuning your goal, building a plan and then taking concrete action — maximizing a travel loyalty program as you go. Step one: Find a special occasion for travel
Desire is what supercharges goal attainment, experts say. Look around and get inspired. Perhaps you have a special anniversary coming up or want to reconnect with family or friends, for which you otherwise might not be able to justify spending for travel.
“Often, it’s not just about a destination. It’s about the experience and the people we want to share these moments with,” said Willoughby.
Thinking of strolling along the Champs- Élysées with your fiancé or heading to Halifax for a family reunion? Are you after outdoor adventure or an urban escape with your best friend, or perhaps an all-inclusive vacation package with the family? Perhaps you long to explore a place you’ve never been or revisit one with great personal meaning for you and your loved ones.
Focusing on a goal will cut the clutter for your attention. And one concrete objective is always easier to commit to than many, Willoughby says. Step two: Build your plan
Consider your budget and select a loyalty program that fits your habits but can also help you get there faster.
For example, after comparing Aeroplan miles required to travel before taxes, fees and surcharges to other loyalty currency required with other travel rewards programs, Aeroplan found that last year, on average, their members needed fewer miles to travel than with other travel reward loyalty programs in Canada.
Then, weigh all the options. You might want to explore alternate trips that are more accessible or require fewer miles. Like if a big ski vacation in Switzerland is out of reach, you might have enough for one in Whistler or Mont Tremblant, for example.
Don’t forget: Points or miles can be used for more than flights. Aeroplan miles can be used to rent a car or book a hotel room at your
destination, or even applied towards theme park tickets or a vacation package. Step t hree: Maximize all opportunities t o achieve your goal
Look for ways to earn as many points or miles as possible and keep abreast of promotions.
With Aeroplan, for instance, you earn miles every time you swipe your member card at some 150 partners, including online through the Aeroplan eStore.
Easier still: use an Aeroplan- affiliated credit card when purchasing almost anywhere — or at a partner retailer and get double the miles for doing so. This can also help to achieve status with Aeroplan that provides up to a 35 per cent discount on certain market fare flight rewards, enabling you to achieve your goal significantly sooner.
“Every step of the road leading to a goal should be a rewarding one,” said Willoughby. “For our members, Aeroplan can really make the journey an easy one.”
For more information, visit aeroplan.com