Meet the ultimate points expert
Gary Leff has been running his blog View from the Wing for over 20 years, and he’s earned the title of the internet’s biggest “travel nerd.” With millions of monthly readers, he knows exactly how to turn miles and points into unforgettable trips.
What makes him stand out? He’s a business traveler who treats loyalty programs like a second language. Instead of chasing random deals, he applies strategy, fine print reading, and years of experience to squeeze maximum value out of every point.
Here’s what I’ve taken from all of Gary Leff’s advice and shaped into this slideshow to help you out.
Start by signing up everywhere
Leff’s first piece of advice? Don’t leave miles behind. If you’re flying, booking a hotel, or even shopping online, make sure you’re signed up for the loyalty program first.
Even if you’re not loyal to one brand, those points add up. Programs are free to join, and once you’re in the system, you’ve unlocked opportunities for upgrades, perks, and discounts you’d miss otherwise.
Pick the right credit cards
Leff doesn’t count his credit cards; he keeps too many, but each serves a purpose. The trick is choosing cards with strong sign-up bonuses, bonus categories, and perks like lounge access.
Instead of putting all spending on one card, divide and conquer. Use one card for groceries, another for travel, and yet another for dining. That way, you’re earning at the highest rate possible every time you swipe.
Know the true value of points
Not all points are created equal. Leff says a Hyatt point is worth about 1.4 cents, while a Hilton point might only get you half a cent.
If you don’t know the value of your points, you might be overpaying. Always compare what you’d pay in cash against what the redemption costs in points. If the math doesn’t make sense, save those points for a better deal.
Treat points like a private currency
Leff compares miles to money with no central bank. Airlines keep printing more miles, which can lead to devaluation.
That’s why hoarding points isn’t smart. Spend them wisely, but don’t wait forever; use them before programs adjust their prices and your “currency” loses value.
Hunt for mistake fares
Some of Leff’s best wins came from spotting error fares, like a luxury villa in Thailand for just $33 a night. These happen when airlines or hotels misprice tickets due to technical or currency glitches.
You’ll need speed and sharp eyes. Following travel forums, deal sites, or even Twitter alerts can help you catch one before it disappears.
Learn from the fine print
Leff started young by reading every line of airline mailers. He figured out he could earn points by grabbing a soda at select restaurants, with no minimum required.
That habit of digging into details pays off big. Many travelers miss out because they skim, but the fine print is where bonus opportunities hide.
Always compare shopping portals
You don’t have to fly to earn miles. Leff recommends using airline shopping portals, where everyday online purchases also earn points.
Before checking out, compare portals like Cashback Monitor to see which offers the best multiplier. That simple extra click could mean thousands of free miles over time.
Track your accounts carefully
Points spread across dozens of programs can get overwhelming fast. Leff recommends tools like AwardWallet to keep everything in one place.
But even a simple spreadsheet or notes app can do the job. The key is not letting points expire, since some programs wipe them out if your account goes inactive.
Don’t ignore hotel programs
Airline miles aren’t the only game in town. Leff stresses the value of hotel loyalty programs, especially Hyatt, where points stretch further.
Hotels often give perks like free breakfast, late checkout, or room upgrades just for booking through their loyalty channels. Sometimes those extras are worth more than the points themselves.
Think like a business traveler
Leff blends his CFO mindset with his traveler side, treating every trip as an equation. For him, it’s not just about saving money but maximizing comfort and convenience.
Business travelers should look at perks like Wi-Fi, lounge access, and guaranteed late checkout. Those small wins can make long work trips far easier.
Diversify your strategies
Relying on one airline or one card can backfire. Programs change, perks disappear, and devaluations happen overnight.
Leff spreads his loyalty across many programs, keeping flexibility in mind. That way, he always has backup options when one redemption isn’t worth it.
Redeem for experiences, not things
Using points for gift cards or merchandise almost always gives the worst value. Leff says flights and hotel stays are where the real magic happens.
Booking an international business-class seat with miles could cost $200 in taxes instead of $4,000 in cash. That’s the kind of redemption that makes points worth chasing.
Be ready to act fast
Deals don’t sit around. Whether it’s a mistake fare, a limited-time bonus, or a disappearing award seat, hesitation can cost you.
Leff keeps alerts set up and reminders in his calendar to stay ahead. If you see a great opportunity, lock it in; most airlines offer 24-hour cancellations anyway.
Learn from other travelers
Leff built his blog by sharing deals and learning from a community of like-minded points chasers. Travel hacking is often a team sport.
Forums, blogs, and online groups are where secrets get spilled first. Travel hacks get smarter when you share the journey, so stay connected, stay alert, and get ready to learn the best times to book flights (and when not to).
Make travel a lifestyle
At the end of the day, points are meant to be used. Leff reminds travelers not to hoard forever but to spend smartly and actually enjoy the rewards. He approaches points and rewards with the same seriousness as his day job. That’s why he sees opportunities most people miss.
By making travel strategy part of your everyday routine, you’ll start to think like a pro, too. Smart travel isn’t just about earning points; it’s also about knowing when to splurge. Find out if that flight upgrade is really worth it.
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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
