Frequent Flyer Program - Is it worth it?

[Bakes]

Hi,

I am flying overseas a couple of times over the next few months and unsure whether to join a frequent flyer program. I am hoping someone could give me a simple answer with a ballpark idea of what it would be worth to me in points and benefits (ie - is it really worth the joining fee).

My upcoming flights are;
Trip #1 (August)
Melbourne to Auckland
Return with QANTAS

Trip #2 (February 2014)
Melbourne to Hong Kong
Hong Kong to Sapporo, Japan
Return with Cathay Pacific

I don't have any other travel planned for 2014 at this stage. Maybe the odd domestic flight, but that's about all.

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
Bakes

 

[markis10]

I doubt you will get anyone saying no here, and you need to think about the fact that programs have matured to the point where the frequent flyer aspect is mainly in the name, points can be earned and redeemed on many different channels. If you were to start a Woolworths Everyday rewards account it gives you Qantas membership for free, those points from the trips would at worse value give you some Wish giftcards, given the no cost joining option what has it really cost you!

Be warned though, point collecting has been known to become an addiction, as has this site, welcome.

 

[Deleted member]

I think Markis10 has pretty much covered it all

 

[Limewood]

See if you can get a Plat card like ANZ or Amex many have sign on bonus points for QFF, the Amex gives me 1.5 FF points per $ spent, use it at Woolies, BP, Bunnings, PO etc. without additional charges like some restaurants.

If you fly in J then use lounges. Once Gold get in for free even if in cheapest Y, can join but its xy.

 

[Bakes]

Thanks everyone. I really appreciate getting so many responses so quickly. I didn't expect anything at all.
I have joined Woolies Everyday Rewards - being free I am already $82.50 ahead of where I thought I would be so thanks very much for the tip.
I owe you a beer for that.
Cheers,
Bakes

 

[ozbeachbabe]

I think one of the biggest misconceptions about being a member of a Frequent Flyer program is that you have to fly a lot for it to be worth it.

So many people here on AFF are living proof that certainly isn't the case. As already mentioned, a signup bonus with a credit card may give you up to 80,000 frequent flyer points so you're well on your way to a business class ticket somewhere.

If you put any credit card spend on a card that will earn frequent flyer points for dollars spent that will start to add up quickly also.

 

[samh004]

The only thing I'd like to add is just to make sure you earn some points at least once every 18 months to keep whatever points you have, active. Who knows what you'll use them for down the track, and at least with Qantas the expiry of all points is offset with activity every 18 months (a simple $31 shop at Woolworths with a swipe of the orange card).

 

[OATEK]

The only thing I'd like to add is just to make sure you earn some points at least once every 18 months to keep whatever points you have, active. Who knows what you'll use them for down the track, and at least with Qantas the expiry of all points is offset with activity every 18 months (a simple $31 shop at Woolworths with a swipe of the orange card).

You have done well with the EDR card, so that every time you make a minor (or major) purchase at Woolies, your QFF account keeps ticking over and the points won't expire. I have Optus crediting (Broadband, TV and Phone accounts) as well.