5 Ways to Earn Miles Without Flying

You don’t need to board a plane to earn frequent flyer miles. There are many ways to earn miles that can get you on a flight to your dream destination, faster than earning them by flying. Ah, Bermuda sounds good right about now (shown above).

1. Sign Up Bonuses

Apply for a co-branded airline credit card. I’ve seen sign up bonuses that can earn you at least 30,000 miles, and even free companion flights. You can earn multiple points per dollar on some purchases as well.

Tip: Always use your credit cards on everyday expenses and never carry a balance.

2. Shop Through Online Portals

Every major airline has a shopping portal that allows you to earn miles at affiliated vendors. American Airlines’ shopping portal is aadvantageeshopping.com. Just create an account with your frequent flyer info before you shop. I make it a habit to check AA’s site before hitting “Proceed to Checkout.” Shopping at Williams Sonoma or Bed Bath and Beyond can earn you 2 miles per dollar.

The miles will appear in your account a few weeks after the purchase.

3. Earn Miles Dining Out

You can earn miles from airline dining programs. Each major airline has a dining program where you can earn miles for each dollar spent. Once you sign up for an account, you can register a credit card or debit card and find participating restaurants in your neighborhood. I use Delta’s skymiles.rewardsnetwork.com and have earned 3 miles per dollar spent at the restaurants I dine at most – whether dining in or taking out.

Tip: Be sure to add your airline credit card to earn more points. Also be sure to update your cards as soon as your credit card account number changes.

4. Promotions and Email Newsletters

Sign up for newsletters from major airlines and find out when these deals are available. You will receive an email with special promotions that can earn you a couple thousand miles for signing up for a service.