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Takeoff: A Points and Miles Podcast by 10xTravelAuthor: 10xTravel
Takeoff is a podcast that will teach you how to save money and travel better. Join Bryce, Emily, Matt, and Travis from 10xTravel as they teach you the fundamentals of points & miles and dive into the latest strategies, deals, and news in the industry. If you want to travel more (and better) without spending more money, this show is for you. Language: en-us Genres: Hobbies, Leisure, Places & Travel, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Best U.S. Airline Loyalty Program for 2026: Alaska vs United vs American
Episode 69
Wednesday, 28 January, 2026
Which U.S. airline loyalty program delivers the most value in 2026? In this roundtable discussion, the 10xTravel crew debates Alaska Airlines, United MileagePlus, and American AAdvantage to determine which program stands out for earning miles, redeeming points, elite status perks, and partner networks. Travis, Emily, and Matt each defend one airline program, breaking down recent changes, hidden strengths, and real world tradeoffs travelers need to understand before committing their loyalty. This episode is designed to help you rethink how airline programs actually work in 2026 and whether chasing status still makes sense. You’ll hear the crew's perspectives on: Which airline miles are easiest to earn in 2026 How redemption value really compares across Alaska, United, and American Whether elite status still delivers meaningful benefits How alliances and partners affect award availability Why some loyalty strategies may no longer be worth the effort Tune in to learn which which program may work best for how you travel in 2026! Timestamps: 0:00 Intro: Best Airline Loyalty Program for 2026 01:15 Roundtable Format & Airlines Chosen (Alaska, United, American) 04:10 Icebreaker: Best Airport Lounge Snacks 10:55 How We’re Judging Each Program 11:20 Earning Points: Alaska's Atmos Rewards 16:05 Alaska Credit Cards & “Choose Your Own Adventure” Earning 21:00 Earning Points: United MileagePlus 23:45 United Credit Cards & Star Alliance Earning 31:00 Earning Points: American Airlines AAdvantage 33:30 Earning & Redeeming Points: United & Star Alliance 38:40 United Devaluations & Partner Award Changes 42:55 Redeeming Points: American Airlines Sweet Spots 44:40 Alaska Stopovers & Unique Partner Value 48:10 Elite Status Evaluations 01:05:30 Which Program Is Best for the Average Traveler? 01:08:10 Final Votes & Why American Wins 01:11:00 Why Delta Was Not Included 01:14:30 Listener Spotlight: Family United Redemption to Aruba 01:17:20 Final Thoughts Links and Resources from this Episode: Take Our Free Points and Miles Course New To Points and Miles? Listen to Episodes 1-6 of the podcast Our Best Credit Cards List (Updated Monthly) My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place Let us book your next award flight for you Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card 10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today Join us at an upcoming Meetu...
