Introduction
Are you flying with Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian, or other Star Alliance partners and wondering how to make the most of your loyalty? Or perhaps you’re looking for a powerful program to unlock global travel rewards? The Lufthansa Miles & More program is one of the best ways to maximize travel benefits.
The Lufthansa Miles & More program offers fantastic opportunities to earn and redeem miles, achieve elite status, and enhance your travel experience. However, its rules can sometimes feel complex, especially for those new to the program or looking to optimize their benefits. This comprehensive guide cuts through the confusion, providing you with the essential knowledge to navigate Miles & More effectively. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, we’ll show you how to earn miles efficiently, redeem them for maximum value, understand elite status, and avoid common pitfalls.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear roadmap to leverage the Miles & More program to its full potential. Armed with practical tips and insider knowledge, you can travel further, more comfortably, and affordably—turning every journey into a rewarding experience.
Understanding the Lufthansa Miles & More Program
Miles & More is the Lufthansa Group’s frequent flyer program, designed to reward loyal travellers with miles and status points. It’s a global loyalty scheme that offers benefits to Lufthansa’s passengers, its Star Alliance partners, and other affiliated airlines. This program allows travellers to accumulate miles, earn elite status, and enjoy various perks that make their travel experience more rewarding.
The Lufthansa Group’s Miles & More program includes Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and other Star Alliance members. This allows members to earn and redeem miles across a vast network of international routes, benefiting from the extensive reach of the Lufthansa Group and its partners.
Frequent flyers, business travellers, and those who regularly travel within Europe or internationally will benefit the most from the Miles & More program. Additionally, travellers who prefer long-haul flights and those with flexible travel schedules who can take advantage of promotional discounts will find immense value in the various earning and redemption opportunities.
For accurate and up-to-date details on the Miles & More program, always refer to the official Miles & More homepage. This will provide you with the most current program structure and offers. While Miles & More stands out for its deep integration with the Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance, it is important to compare it with other European frequent flyer programs such as Air France’s Flying Blue or Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles. Each program has its benefits, with Miles & More offering a unique mix of flexibility in earning and redeeming miles across a large network.
| Key Feature | Description |
| Miles Earning | Earn Award Miles and Status/Qualifying Points through flights, credit cards, and partner services. |
| Global Network | Access to Lufthansa Group, Star Alliance, and other partner routes for earning and redeeming miles. |
| Frequent Flyer Status | Achieve elite status through accumulating Status Points (Frequent Traveller, Senator, HON Circle), with increasing benefits like lounge access and priority services. |
| Diverse Redemptions | Use miles for flights, upgrades, hotels, cars, shopping, and other experiences via various partners. |
| Mileage Bargains | Monthly promotions offering discounted award flights with select airlines and routes. |
| Credit Cards & Partners | Earn miles through everyday purchases using Miles & More credit cards and shopping with partner brands. |
| Dynamic Award Flights | Award flights are now dynamically priced based on factors like route, fare class, and availability for select airlines like Lufthansa, SWISS, and Austrian Airlines. |
| Mileage Pooling | Combine miles with family or friends to redeem awards faster through Mileage Pooling (up to 6 people). |
Earning Miles: Award Miles vs. Status Points/Qualifying Points
Understanding the differences between Award Miles and Status Points (or Qualifying Points) is crucial for maximizing the benefits of the Lufthansa Miles & More program. These two types of miles/points serve distinct purposes but are essential to the program’s functionality.
Award Miles: For Redemptions
Award Miles are earned to be redeemed for various rewards such as flights, upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals, and more. Award Miles are primarily earned through flights, co-branded credit cards, and other program partners, such as hotels and car rental services. These miles can be used to book award flights, upgrade to higher classes, or secure other travel-related rewards.
Status Points/Qualifying Points: For Elite Status
Status Points (or Qualifying Points) are earned to achieve and maintain elite status, which grants additional privileges such as priority boarding, lounge access, and extra baggage. Status Points are earned primarily through flights with Lufthansa Group airlines and Star Alliance partners, based on fare class and distance flown. These points cannot be redeemed for rewards. Instead, they contribute to achieving various elite tiers within the program (Frequent Traveller, Senator, and HON Circle).
Clarifying the Difference Between Award Miles and Status/Qualifying Points
One of the most common questions among Miles & More members is the difference between Award Miles and Status Points, also known as Qualifying Points. Award Miles are the currency used for redemptions, allowing members to book flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and other travel-related rewards. On the other hand, Status Points are what help travelers earn elite status within the program. These points unlock benefits such as lounge access, priority boarding, and a range of exclusive perks that enhance the overall travel experience.
This guide is based on the latest Miles & More website information. For real-time updates and further program details, please refer to the official Miles & More homepage.
Redeeming Miles: Getting Value from Your Miles
Redeeming your hard-earned miles is the ultimate goal of any frequent flyer, and the Lufthansa Miles & More program provides a range of options to get value from your miles. From award flights to upgrades and even shopping or experiences, knowing how to redeem miles effectively is key to maximizing your loyalty benefits. This guide will walk you through the different redemption options and help you navigate the complexities of the program.
1. How to Redeeming for Flights:
The most popular and high-value redemption option in the Miles & More program is award flights. Members can use their miles to book flights with Lufthansa Group airlines, Star Alliance partners, and a range of other partner airlines. The number of miles required for a redemption depends on several factors. Long-haul routes generally require more miles compared to short-haul or continental flights. The class of service also plays a role, with Business and First Class redemptions costing significantly more miles than Economy. In addition, flight availability can vary, particularly during peak travel seasons, which makes booking early an important step to secure the best options.
Searching for Award Availability:
To get the most out of your redemptions, it is essential to know how to search for award flight availability. The official Miles & More website or app is the most straightforward option—simply log in, enter your route, and check for award seats directly. For more advanced searches, third-party tools such as ExpertFlyer and Point.me can be especially useful. These platforms offer broader search capabilities, including availability across multiple airline partners and even alerts when seats open up. While some of these features require a paid subscription, they can save time and increase your chances of securing the flights you want.
If you’re struggling to find award flights directly on the Miles & More website, third-party tools may provide more visibility into partner airline availability, potentially unlocking more options.
2. Mileage Charts vs. Dynamic Pricing
Historically, Miles & More relied on a Mileage Chart to show how many miles were needed for specific flights, but the program has gradually shifted toward dynamic pricing. With Mileage Charts, certain routes still follow fixed redemption rates, although these are limited and do not apply to all destinations. In most cases, travelers will encounter dynamic pricing, where the number of miles required is influenced by demand, seasonality, and the class of service. This approach means that award rates can fluctuate significantly depending on seat availability and the popularity of a particular flight.
Keep an eye on promotional offers and discounts, as they can offer flights at a lower mileage rate, even under dynamic pricing.
3. Booking Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The process of booking an award flight is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you do it correctly:
- Log in to your Miles & More Account
- Access your account via the official website or app.
- Search for Flights
- Enter your desired route and travel dates.
- Choose Award Flight
- Select an available flight from the results. You may have the option to pay with part cash and part miles for some flights.
- Confirm and Redeem
- After selecting the flight, confirm your redemption details and proceed to book.
- Receive Confirmation
- Once booked, you’ll receive an email confirmation with your flight details.
4. Fuel Surcharges (YQ/YR): Understanding and Managing High Fees
When booking award flights with Lufthansa or its partner airlines, one major consideration is fuel surcharges (YQ/YR), which can substantially raise the total cost of your ticket. These charges are not covered by miles and must be paid separately in cash. To manage this, it can be smart to book award flights with partners such as United Airlines or Singapore Airlines, as they often impose lower fuel surcharges compared to Lufthansa Group carriers. Choosing these partners strategically can help you minimize out-of-pocket expenses while maximizing the value of your miles.
When booking Lufthansa Group flights, always check the fuel surcharges beforehand. In some cases, booking a partner airline may offer a better deal with fewer or lower fees.
5. Mileage Bargains: Leveraging Discounted Monthly Offers
Lufthansa Miles & More offers Mileage Bargains, which are discounted award flights available on select routes each month. These special offers can provide significant savings in terms of miles required for specific destinations.
How to Find and Book Mileage Bargains:
A great way to stretch your miles further is by using the Mileage Bargains section on the official Miles & More website. Here, you can browse a regularly updated list of discounted routes that require fewer miles than standard award flights. Once you find a deal that fits your plans, you can book it just like a regular award flight, but with the added benefit of reduced mileage requirements.
Keep an eye on the Monthly Mileage Bargains promotions and plan your travel accordingly. These deals often have limited availability and can be an excellent way to stretch your miles.
6. Redeeming for Upgrades
Using miles to upgrade your seat is another excellent way to get value from your miles. You can use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business or from Business to First Class, provided there’s availability.
How Upgrades Work with Miles & More:
Upgrades with Miles & More can be a valuable way to use your miles, but there are a few factors to keep in mind. Upgrades are eligible on Lufthansa Group flights and select Star Alliance partner flights, giving you flexibility across a wide network. However, availability depends on open seats in the higher class of service, and on busy routes or peak seasons, upgrades may not always be possible. In terms of value, using miles for an upgrade can sometimes be a smarter choice than booking a full award flight, particularly when award seats are scarce or priced at very high mileage rates.
If you can’t find availability for an award flight or the mileage required is too high, consider upgrading your existing ticket with miles for a more comfortable journey.
7. Other Redemption Options
Besides flights and upgrades, Miles & More also offers a variety of other redemption options, including:
Hotels and Car Rentals:
Miles & More members can also redeem their miles for hotel stays and car rentals through program partners such as Hertz and Booking.com. The process works much like booking flights—you simply search for available options, select your preferred hotel or rental, and confirm the booking using your miles. This adds extra flexibility for travelers who want to use their miles beyond flights and enjoy a complete travel experience.
Shopping & Experiences:
Miles & More gives members the option to redeem miles not only for travel but also for lifestyle rewards. You can use your miles to shop for products, purchase shopping vouchers, or even enjoy unique experiences such as spa packages and event tickets. These options are available through the Miles & More shop and partner sites, where you can browse a wide selection of items and services that can be purchased directly with your miles.
8. Comparing Miles & More Flight Redemptions to Other Programs
When it comes to flight redemptions, it is useful to compare Miles & More with other major Star Alliance programs such as United MileagePlus and Air Canada Aeroplan to understand the true value of your miles. One key factor is mileage rates and fees—checking how many miles are required for similar routes across programs and noting differences in fuel surcharges and taxes can reveal significant cost variations. Another important aspect is redemption flexibility, since some programs allow easier changes or cancellations on award flights, which can make them more traveler-friendly. By weighing these factors, you can better assess which program offers the most value for your travel needs.
Many travellers struggle to compare the value of Miles & More redemptions to other programs. A good approach is to assess total costs (miles plus cash) and award availability for the routes you frequent.
9. Highlighting Lesser-Known Ways to Redeem Miles:
While award flights and upgrades are the most obvious redemption options, there are some hidden gems in the Miles & More program. For example, redeeming miles for lifestyle experiences or shopping vouchers can be a great way to use your miles for non-travel rewards.
| Redemption Option | Examples/Partners | Things to Consider (e.g., Fees, Availability) |
| Flight Awards | Lufthansa Group, Star Alliance (United, Singapore, etc.), Other Partners | Value is often highest; check for fuel surcharges (high on LH group, lower on some partners); availability can be limited. Typically, flights to long-haul destinations can cost between 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on availability. |
| Mileage Bargains | Specific routes are announced monthly. | Heavily discounted mileage cost; limited destinations & travel periods; still subject to fuel surcharges. Mileage Bargains for European routes can cost as low as 15,000 miles one-way, while long-haul destinations can be around 30,000 miles. |
| Upgrades | Lufthansa Group, some Star Alliance partners | It can offer good value if the paid fare is high; availability varies, and it typically requires specific fare classes. Upgrade costs can vary from 10,000 to 40,000 miles depending on the route, fare class, and cabin. |
| Hotels & Car Rentals | Various hotel chains, rental companies | Generally, the value is poor compared to flight redemptions; use only if miles are expiring or no flight options are available. Hotel stays can cost from 15,000 to 30,000 miles for a weekend stay, but redemption value is lower compared to flights. |
| Shopping/ Experiences | Miles & More Shop, specific partners | Very low value per mile; typically not recommended for most travellers. For example, 10,000 miles might only yield $50 worth of shopping or experiences. |
Elite Status in Miles & More: Unlocking Exclusive Benefits
Achieving elite status in the Miles & More program unlocks a range of benefits that can enhance your travel experience. From priority check-in to extra luggage and even exclusive lounges, elite status provides significant value for frequent travellers. Starting in 2024, the program will be transitioning to a new Points System for status, which aims to streamline the process of earning elite tiers.
Let’s dive into the key details of elite status, how it’s earned, and how the new Points System will impact your journey towards status.
1. The New Points System for Status
Starting in 2024, Lufthansa Miles & More will introduce a new Points System for achieving elite status, replacing the older Status Miles system. This transition is designed to simplify the process and make it more transparent.
Points in the Miles & More program are earned based on two main factors: the type of route and the travel class. Continental flights typically earn fewer points compared to intercontinental routes, and higher travel classes such as Business or First Class earn more points than Economy. Beyond standard Points, members also accumulate Qualifying Points and HON Circle Points through their flight activity. These additional points are key to reaching and maintaining elite status levels within the program, unlocking exclusive benefits and privileges for frequent travelers.
2. How Points, Qualifying Points, and HON Circle Points Accumulate Towards Status
The accumulation of Points and Qualifying Points (or HON Circle Points) is central to reaching the various elite tiers. The number of points you earn throughout the calendar year determines which status level you qualify for.
In the Miles & More program, different types of points play a role in achieving elite status. Regular Points are earned on flights and count toward your overall progress, with higher status tiers requiring a larger number of points. Qualifying Points are especially important, as they are earned on flights with Lufthansa Group and co-issuing Miles & More partners and are essential for reaching specific status levels. HON Circle Points, on the other hand, are a special category awarded only for Business and First Class flights, primarily with Lufthansa Group and HON Circle partners, and they are key to achieving the highest level of elite recognition in the program.
3. Status Tiers and Thresholds
Lufthansa Miles & More has three main elite status tiers, each with its own set of requirements and benefits. The thresholds for earning these tiers are based on the number of points you accumulate over a calendar year.
Frequent Traveller Status (FT)
To reach the Frequent Traveller tier in the Miles & More program, members must earn a required number of Status Points or Qualifying Points. The exact number of Qualifying Points depends on flights taken with Lufthansa Group and co-issuing partners. Once achieved, this tier comes with several valuable benefits. Frequent Travellers enjoy access to Lufthansa and Star Alliance lounges, making their travel more comfortable and convenient. They also benefit from priority check-in at dedicated counters, helping them save time at the airport. In addition, an extra baggage allowance is included, providing more flexibility for their journeys.
Senator Status
The Senator tier in the Miles & More program is achieved by earning a higher threshold of Qualifying Points and Status Points through flights with Lufthansa Group and other partners, making it a step above the Frequent Traveller tier. Reaching this level unlocks significant advantages, most notably Star Alliance Gold status, which provides priority services and lounge access across all Star Alliance member airlines. Senators also enjoy an increased baggage allowance beyond what Frequent Travellers receive, as well as broader lounge access within the entire Star Alliance network, enhancing comfort and convenience on every trip.
HON Circle Status
The HON Circle tier is the highest level of status within the Miles & More program and is reserved for the most frequent and loyal travelers. To qualify, members must earn a substantial number of HON Circle Points, which are collected exclusively by flying in Business or First Class with Lufthansa Group airlines or designated HON Circle partners. The rewards at this tier are exceptional, including access to dedicated HON Circle Lounges, offering the utmost privacy and comfort. Members also benefit from limousine transfers to and from the aircraft in select regions, along with top-tier service and personalized attention across the Lufthansa Group network, ensuring a truly premium travel experience.
4. Achieving Status: Tips and Strategies
Achieving elite status in the Miles & More program requires planning and consistency, and understanding the new Points System is key to making progress. A strong focus should be placed on earning Qualifying Points, as these carry significant weight in advancing through the status tiers, particularly with Lufthansa Group and co-issuing partners.
In some cases, minimum segment requirements must also be met, meaning you need to complete a certain number of flights to secure specific tiers—a factor especially relevant under legacy rules. For members who find themselves just short of qualifying for the next tier, a “status run” can be a practical strategy. This involves booking a few extra flights, ideally on routes that yield higher points, to push you over the threshold and secure your desired status level.
Focus on earning Qualifying Points on Lufthansa Group airlines and co-issuing partners, as this is the most efficient way to earn points towards status. Ensure you’re aware of the new Points system and the specific earning rates for your preferred routes.
5. Status Stars: Recognizing Long-Term Loyalty
In addition to the regular elite status tiers, Miles & More also offers Status Stars to recognize members with long-term loyalty. Achieving a certain number of Status Stars over the years demonstrates a sustained commitment to the program and can provide additional perks.
Understanding the Requirements and Benefits of Different Elite Status Tiers
Many travellers find it challenging to understand the specific requirements for each status tier, particularly with the introduction of the new Points System. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Frequent Traveller status is the entry-level tier of elite recognition in the Miles & More program, requiring fewer points than higher tiers but still delivering valuable perks such as lounge access and priority check-in. Senator status sits above it, demanding a higher threshold of points and rewarding members with more exclusive privileges, including Star Alliance Gold benefits that provide wider lounge access and priority services across the entire alliance. At the very top is HON Circle status, the most exclusive tier, which requires earning HON Circle Points through premium cabin travel. This level unlocks the program’s most prestigious benefits, such as limousine service and access to dedicated HON Circle lounges, offering an unmatched level of comfort and service.
This detailed guide has been crafted based on the official Miles & More program rules. For the most current information, always refer to the official Miles & More website.
| Status Tier | Requirements (Points) | Key Benefits |
| Frequent Traveller | 650 Points, incl. 325 Qualifying Points | Business Class check-in, Senator Lounge access (with flight), priority boarding, extra baggage allowance. |
| Senator | 2,000 Points, incl. 1,000 Qualifying Points | Star Alliance Gold status (worldwide lounge access), Senator Lounge access (any Star Alliance flight), higher baggage allowance, eJournals. |
| HON Circle | 6,000 HON Circle Points | HON Circle Lounges, First Class check-in, limousine service (select airports), highest priority. |
Key Terms & Definitions
| Term | Definition/Explanation |
| Award Miles | Miles earned for flights, and partners are used for redemptions (flights, upgrades, shopping, etc.). |
| Status Points | Points earned on all Star Alliance and Miles & More partner flights contribute to status (Frequent Traveller, Senator, HON Circle). |
| Qualifying Points | Points earned specifically on Lufthansa Group and co-issuing Miles & More partners are required for Frequent Traveller & Senator status. |
| HON Circle Points | Points earned on First/Business Class flights with Lufthansa Group and HON Circle partners are required for HON Circle status. |
| Mileage Bargains | Monthly promotions offering discounted award flights to specific destinations. |
| Star Alliance | A global airline alliance that includes Lufthansa Group, United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and others, offering benefits like shared award availability and status recognition. |
| Lufthansa Group | This includes Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings, and other subsidiaries, which form the core of the Miles & More program. |
| Segment | A portion of a flight itinerary is typically defined as one takeoff and landing. Miles & More tracks the number of segments flown. |
| Fuel Surcharge (YQ/YR) | Additional fees are added to award tickets, often significant on Lufthansa Group flights but potentially lower on partner airlines. |
| Open Jaw | A flight itinerary where you arrive in one city but depart from another (or depart from one city and return to another). |
| Stopover | A planned break in travel at an intermediate point for more than 24 hours. Rules vary by redemption type/carrier. |
| Companion Award | Discounted award tickets are available for a companion travelling with a Senator or HON Circle member (subject to availability). |
| Status Stars | Special recognition for long-term loyalty within the Miles & More program, typically earned after years of maintaining elite status. |
Avoiding Common Mistakes
To avoid the common mistakes outlined above, focus on tracking expiration dates, understanding fuel surcharges, and taking advantage of limited-time promotions. Planning your flights strategically and learning how to maximize earning opportunities can make all the difference in ensuring your Miles & More membership remains valuable.
Resources for Miles & More Members
As a Miles & More member, having access to the right resources can significantly enhance your ability to maximize rewards, stay informed on program changes, and navigate the complexities of the loyalty program. Below are essential tools, websites, and products that will help you make the most of your Miles & More membership.
1. Essential Tools and Websites
Official Miles & More Website (miles-and-more.com)
The Miles & More website is the primary source for all program-related information. It’s where you’ll find the latest updates on program rules, redemptions, and new promotions. Use this site to track your miles, view award availability, and explore the Mileage Bargains promotions that can save you miles on award bookings. Always check here for the most up-to-date program guidelines and official updates.
Lufthansa App / Miles & More App
The Lufthansa and Miles & More apps are essential companions for frequent travelers, making it easy to manage every aspect of your membership on the go. Through the apps, you can track your miles, view your current balance, and even book flights directly. Your digital membership card is also stored within the app, giving you seamless access to lounges and faster check-in at the airport. In addition, the apps send timely notifications about promotions, offers, and upcoming award miles expirations, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to maximize your benefits. Together, they provide a smooth and efficient way to book, track, and manage both your miles and status wherever you are.
- Download from: Lufthansa App or Miles & More App
Star Alliance Website
Star Alliance partners with Miles & More, and the Star Alliance website is a great resource to verify eligible partners and learn more about the benefits of traveling within the alliance. If you’re unsure whether a particular airline or route is eligible for earning or redeeming Miles & More miles, the Star Alliance website provides up-to-date information on its network of airlines and their participating benefits.
- Visit: Star Alliance Network
Award Search Tools (ExpertFlyer, Point.me)
Tools like ExpertFlyer and Point.me can be extremely useful for frequent flyers looking to maximize their Miles & More redemptions. They help you search for award availability across different airlines and dates, making it easier to find flights that suit your plans. These platforms also allow you to compare award seat availability across multiple airlines within the Miles & More network, giving you a clearer picture of your options. In addition, they provide insights into award costs in miles, helping you identify the best value deals. While some of their features require a subscription, the convenience and advantages they offer can be invaluable when navigating the often complex world of award bookings.
- Visit: ExpertFlyer, Point.me
Miles & More Credit Card Information Pages
The Miles & More credit card is one of the most efficient ways to earn miles for everyday spending. Visit the official Miles & More credit card information pages to learn about the various cards available, their earning rates, and the benefits each card offers. If you’re interested in maximizing your miles outside of just flying, this is an excellent way to boost your miles balance.
- Visit: Miles & More Credit Card
2. Staying Updated
Official Channels
Staying up to date with changes to the Miles & More program is crucial to making the most of your membership. The program regularly updates members about new rules, promotions, and important changes through different channels. One of the easiest ways is through email notifications—by subscribing, you’ll receive alerts directly in your inbox about upcoming offers and program adjustments. Another reliable source is the news section on the official Miles & More website, which is frequently updated with the latest announcements. By keeping an eye on these channels, you can ensure that you never miss out on opportunities or important updates that could affect your miles and benefits.
Make sure to follow these channels regularly to stay ahead of any changes that could affect your miles accumulation or redemption strategy.
3. Verification Date/Last Update
All information in this article is based on the latest available data as of June 2025. While this content has been verified to be accurate at the time of writing, we always recommend that members double-check any specific details, especially when planning significant redemptions or strategic mileage decisions. The Miles & More website and the Lufthansa App should be your go-to sources for the most up-to-date and official program guidelines.
4. Community Forums and Blogs (Optional)
While the official Miles & More resources should always be your primary reference, community forums and blogs dedicated to loyalty programs can provide valuable additional insights. These platforms allow you to learn from the experiences of other travelers who share their strategies for maximizing miles, spotting hidden award availability, or navigating tricky booking situations. Enthusiasts also frequently exchange tips and tricks about lesser-known features of the program, giving you a deeper understanding of how to make the most of your membership.
However, always verify any advice you read online with official sources, as information from forums and blogs can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate.
Conclusion: Unlocking the Full Potential of Miles & More
The Miles & More program offers incredible value to frequent travellers, providing a wealth of opportunities to earn and redeem miles. Whether you’re looking to earn miles through flights, credit cards, or non-airline partners or aiming to maximize your redemptions on premium flights and exclusive upgrades, the program has something for everyone.
By understanding how to strategically navigate the complexities of earning and redeeming miles, you can enhance your travel experiences, enjoy more luxurious benefits, and accelerate your path to elite status.
Key Takeaways for Earning and Redeeming Effectively
To get the most value out of the Miles & More program, it pays to be strategic with how you earn and redeem your miles. One effective approach is to maximize your miles by booking higher-earning fare classes and stacking rewards with your Miles & More credit card, as well as through other partner activities. When it comes to redeeming, look for award sweet spots by focusing on less busy routes and making use of tools like Mileage Bargains, ExpertFlyer, or Point.me to uncover hidden deals. You can also stretch your miles further by taking advantage of stopovers and open-jaw itineraries, which allow you to visit multiple destinations for the same redemption. Always calculate the cents per mile (CPM) to confirm that you’re getting solid value from your redemptions. Finally, keep yourself informed by staying updated on program changes and promotions through official channels so you never miss new opportunities to earn or save.
Start Maximizing Your Rewards Today. Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of the strategies for earning and redeeming with Miles & More, it’s time to take action. Start by visiting the Miles & More website to track your miles, explore new redemption options, or plan your next trip. With the proper knowledge and tools, you’re on the path to maximizing your rewards and elevating your travel experiences to new heights. Don’t wait—explore the program, start earning, and make the most of your miles today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the Miles & More program, using a Myth vs. Fact approach where applicable to help clarify common misconceptions.
1. Can I transfer Miles & More miles to other people or programs?
- Myth: You can transfer Miles & More miles to anyone at any time.
- Fact: Generally, Miles & More Miles are non-transferable to other members or programs. However, some exceptions apply, such as transferring miles between your own accounts or combining miles through family pooling (where allowed by specific program terms). Check the official rules for more details.
2. Do Miles & More miles expire? How can I prevent it?
- Myth: Miles in the Miles & More program never expires.
- Fact: Miles expire after 36 months for basic members unless you have qualifying activities, such as earning or redeeming miles or maintaining elite status or a credit card. To prevent expiration, ensure you engage with your miles by either earning them through flights, shopping, or redeeming them before the expiration date.
3. Why are fuel surcharges so high on some award tickets?
- Myth: The fuel surcharges are the same for all airlines.
- Fact: Fuel surcharges (YQ/YR) can be exceptionally high on Lufthansa Group flights because of the airline’s policy to include these charges with award tickets. While partners may have lower surcharges, it’s always worth checking the fees before booking, especially when flying with Lufthansa or its subsidiaries. Look for partner airlines to potentially reduce the surcharge.
4. Can I earn miles on flights booked through third-party websites?
- Myth: You can’t earn miles if you book through third-party websites.
- Fact: You can earn miles on flights booked through third-party websites (such as Expedia or Booking.com), but it depends on the fare class. You must book eligible fare classes that are valid for earning miles. Always check the Miles & More website or ask the third-party provider to confirm if the fare qualifies.