Maximize your savings: Uncover the loyalty programs that actually save you money on travel!
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As the days grow longer, the itch to travel starts to take hold. Whether you're dreaming of sandy beaches or bustling city streets, the journey to your vacation goals can be just as important as the destination itself.
But with costs on the rise, savvy travelers are on the hunt for ways to stretch their dollars without sacrificing the quality of their adventures.
Enter the world of travel loyalty programs—a potential goldmine of savings and perks for those who know how to navigate them.
Newsweek, in collaboration with Statista, has unveiled its “America's Best Loyalty Programs 2025” rankings, shining a spotlight on the top programs across various industries.
In the travel sector, these programs are more than just punch cards—they're your ticket to upgrades, rewards, and potentially significant savings.
But what makes a loyalty program stand out? According to the rankings, which are based on over 4,000 reviews, the key factors include ease of use, value of benefits, customer support, trust in personal data handling, overall satisfaction, and the likelihood of recommendation.
In the 2025 ranking, Southwest's Rapid Rewards claimed the top spot for airline loyalty programs, excelling in ease, customer satisfaction, and recommendations. Members earn points through flights, shopping, and hotels, unlocking perks like priority boarding and free Wi-Fi.
As of March, Southwest updated its program: free checked bags now apply only to A-List Preferred and top-tier fares, while most other passengers will face fees. The airline also adjusted its points system, giving Business Select travelers more points while reducing earnings for lower-tier fares.
Hotel stays are also a major part of travel, and Marriott's Bonvoy program has clinched the top spot with its tiered system that rewards longer stays with more points and perks like room upgrades and late checkout.
For those who prefer the convenience of booking platforms, Priceline VIP has returned to the rankings with high marks for ease and customer recommendation, offering savings and priority status with each trip booked.
On the road, Hertz claimed the top spot for rental car loyalty programs in 2025, rising from No. 5 last year. Its Gold Plus Rewards program scored high in trust, satisfaction, and customer recommendation.
Members climb its three tiers by renting more, unlocking perks like free upgrades, easy returns, and dedicated support.
And when it's time to refuel, Thorntons Refreshing Rewards program offers discounts on fuel and other perks, making it a standout choice for travelers driving through its six-state reach.
Travel expert Henry Harteveldt points out that loyalty programs have shifted their focus from frequency or distance flown to the amount spent.
"Airlines have shifted their focus to spending," he said. "Spending really counts more than frequency or distance flown. [Airlines] don't care if you spend a lot of money on a single flight or on a dozen flights as long as you reach certain spending criteria. That's how you earn status."
This trend is mirrored in the hotel industry, where benefits like complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi are becoming less common, and financial value takes precedence.
Customers today seek consistency and value from their loyalty programs. They want to earn points easily and redeem them without jumping through hoops.
Also read: Residency for sale? Trump’s “gold card” plan sparks debate
Brands must balance accessibility with maintaining the allure of elite status to keep customers engaged and feeling valued.
The travel industry is moving beyond points and upgrades, aiming to offer more personalized experiences.
Marriott Bonvoy, for example, has evolved into a program that gets to know its members' preferences and passions, offering tailored services and unique experiences like exclusive events and once-in-a-lifetime trips.
For less frequent travelers, booking websites that bundle travel services can provide an easy and instantly rewarding experience. Priceline's VIP program, for instance, allows customers to earn points across airlines, hotels, and car rentals, offering flexibility and immediate discounts.
When it comes to selecting a loyalty program, one size does not fit all. It's essential to research and consider your travel habits, preferences, and goals.
Some co-branded credit cards linked to loyalty programs can offer additional perks based on your spending, so it's worth exploring those options as well.
As you plan your next getaway, consider the loyalty programs that align with your travel style and financial goals.
You might be interested: Slash your drive-thru bills with this simple mind trick everyone’s talking about!
But with costs on the rise, savvy travelers are on the hunt for ways to stretch their dollars without sacrificing the quality of their adventures.
Enter the world of travel loyalty programs—a potential goldmine of savings and perks for those who know how to navigate them.
Newsweek, in collaboration with Statista, has unveiled its “America's Best Loyalty Programs 2025” rankings, shining a spotlight on the top programs across various industries.
In the travel sector, these programs are more than just punch cards—they're your ticket to upgrades, rewards, and potentially significant savings.
But what makes a loyalty program stand out? According to the rankings, which are based on over 4,000 reviews, the key factors include ease of use, value of benefits, customer support, trust in personal data handling, overall satisfaction, and the likelihood of recommendation.
Travel loyalty programs can offer significant savings and benefits to consumers, especially when booking flights, hotels, and other travel services. Image source: Annie Spratt / Unsplash.
In the 2025 ranking, Southwest's Rapid Rewards claimed the top spot for airline loyalty programs, excelling in ease, customer satisfaction, and recommendations. Members earn points through flights, shopping, and hotels, unlocking perks like priority boarding and free Wi-Fi.
As of March, Southwest updated its program: free checked bags now apply only to A-List Preferred and top-tier fares, while most other passengers will face fees. The airline also adjusted its points system, giving Business Select travelers more points while reducing earnings for lower-tier fares.
Hotel stays are also a major part of travel, and Marriott's Bonvoy program has clinched the top spot with its tiered system that rewards longer stays with more points and perks like room upgrades and late checkout.
For those who prefer the convenience of booking platforms, Priceline VIP has returned to the rankings with high marks for ease and customer recommendation, offering savings and priority status with each trip booked.
On the road, Hertz claimed the top spot for rental car loyalty programs in 2025, rising from No. 5 last year. Its Gold Plus Rewards program scored high in trust, satisfaction, and customer recommendation.
Members climb its three tiers by renting more, unlocking perks like free upgrades, easy returns, and dedicated support.
And when it's time to refuel, Thorntons Refreshing Rewards program offers discounts on fuel and other perks, making it a standout choice for travelers driving through its six-state reach.
Newsweek, in partnership with Statista, has ranked America's Best Loyalty Programs 2025. Image source: NEOM / Unsplash.
Travel expert Henry Harteveldt points out that loyalty programs have shifted their focus from frequency or distance flown to the amount spent.
"Airlines have shifted their focus to spending," he said. "Spending really counts more than frequency or distance flown. [Airlines] don't care if you spend a lot of money on a single flight or on a dozen flights as long as you reach certain spending criteria. That's how you earn status."
This trend is mirrored in the hotel industry, where benefits like complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi are becoming less common, and financial value takes precedence.
Customers today seek consistency and value from their loyalty programs. They want to earn points easily and redeem them without jumping through hoops.
Also read: Residency for sale? Trump’s “gold card” plan sparks debate
Brands must balance accessibility with maintaining the allure of elite status to keep customers engaged and feeling valued.
The travel industry is moving beyond points and upgrades, aiming to offer more personalized experiences.
Marriott Bonvoy, for example, has evolved into a program that gets to know its members' preferences and passions, offering tailored services and unique experiences like exclusive events and once-in-a-lifetime trips.
For less frequent travelers, booking websites that bundle travel services can provide an easy and instantly rewarding experience. Priceline's VIP program, for instance, allows customers to earn points across airlines, hotels, and car rentals, offering flexibility and immediate discounts.
Consumers are looking for simple, accessible loyalty programs that offer consistent discounts and real rewards. Image source: Ross Parmly / Unsplash.
When it comes to selecting a loyalty program, one size does not fit all. It's essential to research and consider your travel habits, preferences, and goals.
Some co-branded credit cards linked to loyalty programs can offer additional perks based on your spending, so it's worth exploring those options as well.
As you plan your next getaway, consider the loyalty programs that align with your travel style and financial goals.
You might be interested: Slash your drive-thru bills with this simple mind trick everyone’s talking about!
