few points, which program forward?

[yogi]

Hi all,

A quick hopefully not too pressing question.

Long time United MP, but my points are down to basically a US domestic trip now and due to expire in a few months. Also with Velocity, but again irregular flyer and due to self paying, my rare o/s flights earn limited points.

So much of a muchness at the moment and not much of that!

I likely have to take a short Middle East trip next month and am loosely planning to spend some time, perhaps working, in the US next year.

Do I keep at the *A or stick with Velocity partners?

Thanks!

 

[yogi]

Just wondering if anyone had any opinions or advice?

 

[Fantic125]

I would suggest stay with VA.

Obviously for domestic flights you'll earn SC's and miles even though they may not add up to much, and you could always add a VA credit card to keep adding miles to use for flights or upgrades.

From my limited experience with VA (ADL-LAX return in December, booked in Y+, but upgraded to J for SYD-LAX) I was quite impressed with their service. In the USA I flew Delta (again not too bad compared to AA and UA/CO) and as a VA Gold I was able to access the DL SkyTeam lounges.

For your Middle East trip I would look for VA or SQ flights (I don't know if they fly there, I've never had the need to look) and credit to VA.


Edit: to keep your MP miles alive so you can possibly use them for a US flight just occasionally credit a hotel stay or car hire to them.

 

[dajop]

One of the key advantages of MP is no fuel surcharges. If not flying often - the savings from having none of that rubbish can be beneficial on international flights. Downsides with MP is that it locks out domestic VA redemptions, and no local credit card direct earn into MP.