Loyalty programs offer a powerful incentive to travel, and to travel more. But is there a downside? Here's everything you need to know.

The ultimate guide to travel loyalty programs

Loyalty programs offer a powerful incentive to travel, and to travel more. Since the first frequent flier programs appeared in the early 1980s, frequent flier and frequent stayer incentives have mushroomed to proportions no one could have predicted. Today, it’s possible to collect miles without darkening the door of an aircraft, or points without checking into a hotel. You can earn them from buying groceries or subscribing to Netflix.

If someone invites you to join a travel club, don't walk away -- run! But if you're reading this, you probably didn't. You fell for the offer of a free cruise or vacation. You attended the presentation, with its laughable, high-pressure sales tactics. And you ended up with a worthless travel club membership. Now you're trying to figure out a way to leave your travel club.

The ultimate guide to joining and leaving a travel club in 2024

If someone invites you to join a travel club, don’t walk away — run! But if you’re reading this, you probably didn’t. You fell for the offer of a free cruise or vacation. You attended the presentation, with its laughable, high-pressure sales tactics. And you ended up with a worthless travel club membership. Now you’re trying to figure out a way to leave your travel club.