Anon10/17/25, 00:27No.2833223
Probably not, unless there’s a big sign-up bonus alongside whatever points/miles you’re offered for your modest spending. The bonuses are often at least theoretically big enough for a couple of domestic (US) flights or at least half of a R/T international flight. Or they might support some upgrades, although I feel like most rewards programs are increasingly demanding both points and cash for upgrades unless you’re a genuine frequent flier with status, which if you travel on a shoestring you are obviously not… meaningful status is mostly the province of people whose jobs send them on a lot of long-hauls in business class nowadays. (I briefly got status with an alliance only after something like a dozen transcontinental flights in coach inside of a year, which was a fluke).Anyway, varies by airline, time of year, lots of other factors, but international awards tickets might cost 80K R/T. Do the math on whatever mileage the card is offering you, remember that miles/points/etc. may expire, don’t forget that awards flights are often harder to book, and you can calculate for yourself whether you will ever get anything out of it.