American Airlines AAdvantage Explained: Best Redemptions & Earning Tips

Have you taken flight with the American Airlines AAdvantage program yet? In this episode, Bryce is joined by Emily and Matt to unpack the program details—from earning and redeeming miles to status tiers and program quirks.

 

Earning AAdvantage miles can be tricky, so the crew is breaking down their thoughts on how to maximize the benefits of the program, including partner information to get the most of your miles. They're also sharing favorite sweet spots, clever redemption strategies, and a few laughs along the way (including a debate on how "AAdvantage" is pronounced).

 

Tune in to learn if American Airlines AAdvantage is for you, and how you can take advantage of this program today!

 

Figure out where to credit your flights: wheretocredit.com

 

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

00:07 Discussing American Airlines AAdvantage Program

00:19 Fun Banter and Personal Updates

02:21 Deep Dive into AAdvantage Program

07:24 Earning AAdvantage Miles

16:08 Redeeming AAdvantage Miles

24:36 Award Booking Tips and Strategies

28:07 Understanding Hold Policies

29:15 Sweet Spots in the AAdvantage Program

29:18 Qatar Airways QSuites

31:30 Flying to Japan with JAL

33:53 Traveling to Australia and Beyond

35:24 Etihad Airways Redemptions

37:20 Short-Haul Economy Sweet Spots

38:25 Caribbean and Mexico Routes

40:45 Flagship First Transcontinental

45:03 Off-Peak Economy Awards to Europe

46:58 Booking Tips and Avoiding Surcharges

50:36 Family Travel Considerations

53:04 Conclusion and Resources

 

Links and Resources from this Episode:

American Airlines AAdvantage: Everything You Need to Know

Which American Airlines Credit Card Is Best?

American Airlines AAdvantage Award Charts

Take our free points and miles course

Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly)