The 5 Best Frequent Flier Programs of 2023

Carol McPherson is an Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @cj_mcpherson.

A member of SmarterTravel since 2019, Carol is an eco-friendly travel enthusiast with a passion for exploring historical sites and trying new things (especially new foods!) She’s lived in Boston and Rome, and hopes to call more cities home in the future.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: “Noise cancelling headphones. I can handle a flight of any length if I have my headphones and a good podcast.”

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Hiking trip in New Zealand."

Travel Motto: “You never know until you try!”

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: “Aisle for long-haul flights, window for short. Does anyone pick middle?”

See recent posts by Carol McPherson

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Savvy travelers know the value of a good airline loyalty program. With perks like airport lounge access, seat upgrades, and free or discounted travel, it pays to rack up those frequent flier miles. WalletHub recently released their annual study ranking the best frequent flier programs to help travelers decide which airline best meets their needs.

The Best Frequent Flier Programs for 2023

Woman walking towards plane on tarmac — vladteodor | Adobe Stock

WalletHub compared ten major domestic carriers using 21 key metrics—such as number of international destinations, earning limits, and booking blackout dates—factoring in the travel needs and budgets of light, average, and frequent fliers. Use WalletHub’s Frequent Flier Miles calculator to get a personalized recommendation on what frequent flier program best suits your travel style.

Rank	Airline	Program Name	Do Miles Expire?
1	United Airlines	MileagePlus	No
2	Alaska Airlines	Mileage Plan	No
3	Delta Airlines	SkyMiles	No
4	Hawaiian Airlines	HawaiianMiles	No
5	American Airlines	AAdvantage	Yes

United Airlines: MileagePlus

United Airlines’ MileagePlus overtook Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan to become the best frequent flier program for 2023. Mileage Plus offers the most award destinations of any reward program and MileagePlus Premier members have access to even more perks, such as seat upgrades and complimentary baggage check. Sign up here.

Alaska Airlines: Mileage Plan

Award travel with Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan starts at 5,000 miles, and members earn up to 30% more miles on their travel than with competitor programs. Earn miles by flying Alaska Airlines (one mile earned for every mile flown), booking with one of their travel partners, or shopping with an Alaska Airlines credit card. Sign up here.

Delta Air Lines: SkyMiles

SkyMiles are earned with every Delta flight at the Main Cabin level or higher, by booking with a SkyMiles partner, or by making purchases with a SkyMiles American Express card. Sign up here.

Hawaiian Airlines: HawaiianMiles

HawaiianMiles can be earned by flying Hawaiian, shopping with a Hawaiian Airlines credit card, or booking with one of Hawaiian’s airline, hotel, car rental, or shopping/dining partners. Miles can also be purchased, with a limit of 30,000 miles. Sign up here.

American Airlines: AAdvantage

AAdvantage recently introduced a rewards level below Gold, with membership starting at just 15,000 miles and including perks like guaranteed group five boarding, preferred seat coupons, and priority privileges. Earn miles by flying American, booking with airline partners, or signing up for an AAdvantage credit card. Sign up here.

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