Know the rules for each program

Even if you think you know what’s happening in each of the frequent traveler programs you belong to, a refresher might be in order. Some airlines and hotels have increased the number of points required for a minimum award, and some are imposing expiration dates. Some car rental companies are tacking on fees if you use points to reduce the cost of your rental.

I recommend: For links to most major loyalty programs, visit the Official Airline Guide (OAG) or Frequent Flier.com

Verify the current balances in your programs

Some travel vendors are better than others at crediting members’ accounts. Log on to your member programs from time to time to be certain the balances are up to date. If you find an error, contact that vendor immediately (note: you might be asked to provide proof that you took the flight (a boarding pass) or stayed at the hotel (a final accounting of your stay).

I recommend: Visit your airlines’ Web sites and log on to your membership program. Look into the current status of you hotel and rental car programs too. Consider a membership in MileageManager for an overview report of your points in each program you’re enrolled in.

Maximize each mile and point

Unless you have more than you’ll ever use in a lifetime, never waste points and miles on “cheap” rewards. Before clicking the “Submit” button, check the Internet for the best deals on that same ticket, hotel room or rental car to be certain you’ll receive maximum value for the points you’ll relinquish.

I recommend: For speedy air searches, use SideStep, Kayak, and Mobissimo (rated best for international carriers). Check Hotels.com, Hotwire.com and Quikbook for hotel deals. For a fast scan of rental car options from several companies, check out BreezeNet.

Know the ropes before using points for merchandise

If you’re thinking about using miles for merchandise, do your homework first! Major airlines have teamed up with a long list of shopping partners in an effort to get you to give up some of your miles for “stuff” rather than free seats. If your airline Web site has an Internet link directly from its membership page to a merchandise partner, be sure to also compare the cost of that item on the partner’s general Web site. You might find the cost at the “public” Web site is lower.

I recommend: Smarter Travel reviews the merchandise programs of three major airlines. Apply these same comparison techniques to your own programs.

Trade ideas with other frequent travelers

Whether you’re new to the rewards game or a long-time road warrior, it doesn’t hurt to ask other frequent travelers how they maximize the value of their programs.

I recommend: Log on to Flyer Talk  for opinions and answers. At Web Flyer, you'll find inside scoop on major programs (including short-term bonuses and promotions that you might otherwise miss), tips, and the tools to manage your mileage stash. Be sure to sign up for their Miles Link Newsletter too.