Travel Hacking: How to Use Points and Miles to Save Money on Travel

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Traveling doesn’t always have to burn a hole in your pocket. Many Indian travelers are now saving big by using something called travel hacking. It’s not as technical as it sounds. Simply put, it means using credit card points, airline miles, and loyalty rewards to cut down on travel costs.

This blog on Travelblog will explain how you can use points and miles in a simple way — no hard words, no complicated talk. Just friendly advice that helps you plan your next trip smarter.

What Is Travel Hacking?

Travel hacking is the method of using points, miles, and rewards to book flights, hotels, or other travel-related services at low or no cost. These points are collected mostly through credit cards or airline and hotel loyalty programs.

So, instead of paying full price for a plane ticket or hotel room, you can use your rewards and save money.

Step 1: Get the Right Travel Credit Card

Not all cards give travel rewards. You need to pick a credit card that gives points or miles every time you spend money.

Here are a few examples many Indians are using in 2025:

  • Axis Atlas Credit Card – You get EDGE Miles for travel spending.
  • HDFC Club Black Card – Gives reward points and free airport lounge entry.
  • SBI Elite Card – Offers free flight vouchers and lounge benefits.

Use your card for daily expenses like fuel, groceries, and online shopping. These regular spends will help you earn more points.

You can find more helpful suggestions on Travelblog, where we list good credit card options for Indian travelers.

Step 2: Earn Extra Points with Sign-Up Bonuses

Most travel credit cards offer bonus points when you first sign up. But there’s a catch — you need to spend a set amount in the first few months. For example, if you spend ₹50,000 in 90 days, you might get 20,000 reward points.

That’s often enough to book a one-way domestic flight or get one or two nights at a hotel.

Step 3: Join Airline and Hotel Loyalty Programs

Most airlines and hotel chains run their own loyalty programs. You can sign up for free and start earning points when you fly or stay.

Some popular ones for Indian travelers:

  • Flying Returns by Air India
  • KrisFlyer by Singapore Airlines
  • Skywards by Emirates
  • Marriott Bonvoy for hotel stays
  • IHG One Rewards for hotels

Always enter your membership number while booking tickets or hotels. That’s how the system adds points to your account.

You can read step-by-step instructions on joining these programs on Travelblog.

Step 4: Use Points to Book Flights and Hotels

Once you’ve collected enough points or miles, the best part begins — using them!

Here’s how it works:

  • Flights: You can log into your airline account, choose the “book using miles” option, and select your destination. For example, a Delhi to Mumbai flight may cost around ₹5,000, but with miles, you might only pay ₹500 in taxes.
  • Hotels: Hotel websites let you use points instead of money to book rooms. You just need to log in, search for dates, and select the “use points” filter.
  • Upgrades: If you’re flying economy but want extra comfort, many airlines let you upgrade your seat using miles.

Step 5: Other Travel Benefits You Can Get

Points and miles aren’t just for flights and hotels. Many cards give you extras that save even more money:

  • Free lounge access at airports
  • Extra baggage allowance
  • Free meals on flights
  • Hotel discounts and cashbacks

All these small savings add up. They make your trip more comfortable without extra cost.

To learn more, check our budget travel guides on Travelblog, where we explain how to use each benefit properly.

Tips to Get the Most from Travel Hacking

  • Pay Your Bills in Full: Never skip or delay your credit card payments. Interest charges can cancel all your rewards.
  • Don’t Spend Just to Earn Points: Buy only what you need. Earning points should not lead to unnecessary shopping.
  • Track Points and Expiry Dates: Use an app or simple notebook to note how many points you’ve earned and when they expire.
  • Book Early with Miles: Award seats get booked fast. If you’re using miles, try to book at least 2 to 3 months in advance.
  • Look for Offers: Many airlines and credit cards give double points during certain months. Keep checking their websites and your card statements.

Why Does This Work Well for Indian Travelers?

Flights within Asia don’t require a huge number of miles. Hotels in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, or UAE are also easier to book with points.

Even if you travel just once a year, this method can help you save thousands of rupees. You don’t need to be a frequent flier. You just need to plan well.

Travelblog shares more tips like these to help everyday Indians travel better without spending too much.

Final Words

Travel hacking sounds like a complex idea, but it’s really just about using the right tools and planning a bit ahead. You earn points when you spend, and you use those points when you travel. Simple and smart.

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family trip, or a solo vacation, travel hacking can help make your dream trip possible.

Keep reading Travelblog for more easy-to-understand tips, money-saving tricks, and travel guides. We write in a way that makes sense — no complicated stuff, just clear and useful advice.

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