Earning frequent flyer miles can land you free flights, upgrades, and other travel perks. The most basic way to earn points is to fly often and with the same carrier. You can earn points without flying by signing up for a rewards credit card and using it and shopping with program partners.

In 2026, the most effective way to accumulate frequent flyer points is no longer just through flying, but through strategic credit card usage and "stacking" partner offers. While flying long-haul in premium cabins still yields significant miles, "land-based" earning often produces more points for the average traveler. The "Big Three" methods are: 1) Credit Card Sign-up Bonuses, which can grant 50,000 to 100,000 points in one go; 2) Shopping Portals, where buying everyday items through an airline’s online mall can earn 5x to 20x points per dollar; and 3) Dining Programs, which link your credit card to earn miles at local restaurants. Additionally, utilizing transferrable point currencies (like Amex Membership Rewards or Chase Ultimate Rewards) allows you to move points to the airline where they have the most value at the moment, protecting you from individual airline devaluations.