Consumers who are unable to use airline miles in a particular program may look to swap with another frequent flier. The growth of online exchange resources and other educational tools for rewards program members makes swapping miles simple. Here's how to leverage your airline miles and rewards points to get the most out of a swap.
Combine your knowledge of online trading websites with your desire to swap airline miles. Websites like Points are designed for rewards program members who need to swap airline miles for other points that can be used to greater effect (see Resources below).
Locate a trade partner who holds airline miles with your favorite airline. A swap of miles from a rewards program with a large network for miles from an airline-sponsored miles program can help you reach destinations unavailable during your blackout dates.
Assess the exchange rate between one rewards program and another before you make a swap. The problem of reduced airline miles during an exchange is common in larger rewards programs that have multiple tiers of membership.
Demonstrate patience as you adhere to waiting periods set by airlines and credit companies during miles swaps. These waiting periods are designed to cut down on administrative confusion that would occur with thousands of card members making daily trades.
Apply to airline and travel rewards programs that allow flexible swapping between accounts. The Hilton Honors rewards program allows account holders to exchange miles within multiple accounts without participating in other travel programs (see Resources below).
Figure out the simplest way to redeem swapped points after the transaction is complete. Most traders will hand you a voucher that entitles the holder to discounted air fare. Programs that require reimbursement after flights have occurred require complicated agreements between both parties.
