07-26-2013, 11:18 AM
I find the programs a necessary evil. The biggest benefit, IMO, is not the free flights but the treatment FF receive from being loyal customers. Getting to choose any coach seat on the plane, free baggage check, early boarding (this is huge if you have any carryon to stow!), all make it worthwhile. And I guess it wasn't too bad to be able to flight 3 people to my daughter's wedding this summer using the program.
However, in terms of rewards, I really value the Starwood's hotel rewards program. Often you can get a hotel room for 7000 points that might be worth $200 or more. Considering airplane rewards start at about 25000-30000 miles for perhaps a $350 flight, this is a very good deal indeed. Remember, when you take a trip, you only fly once, but you may stay in a hotel multiple nights. During the wedding, we camped out in the Sheraton and the 5th night was free!
However, in terms of rewards, I really value the Starwood's hotel rewards program. Often you can get a hotel room for 7000 points that might be worth $200 or more. Considering airplane rewards start at about 25000-30000 miles for perhaps a $350 flight, this is a very good deal indeed. Remember, when you take a trip, you only fly once, but you may stay in a hotel multiple nights. During the wedding, we camped out in the Sheraton and the 5th night was free!