Using a frequent flyer program is a good way to end up with cheap airplane tickets or even free tickets. The only problem with these programs is that you normally receive fewer points for traveling economy or when purchasing discounted tickets.

If you have purchased an RTW ticket for a long-term trip, frequent flyer programs often reward points for even flying with their sister airlines. This will allow you to earn points a lot faster and regardless of what part of the world you are flying in. This means that many times upon returning home from your RTW trip, you will have a free flight waiting for you for your next trip.

A downside of these programs is that points eventually expire. If you don’t use your existing points within a period of time they will expire, and also if you don’t use your card over a certain period of time your points will expire. This just gives you an excuse to travel more often!

Many programs also allow you to obtain points not just through flying. You can get points by using your card at participating hotels, car rentals, and restaurants. You can also get credit cards that allow you to obtain points through purchases made with the card. And, the more you fly in a year, the more benefits your program will grant you.