9) Join a loyalty program
Choose an international hotel chain that you like and sign up for their rewards program. As a loyal member, you’re more likely to receive benefits like free upgrades or discounted room rates. Sign up for your favorite airline’s frequent flyer program, log your miles, and use them to make flying more pleasant. Miles can be exchanged for upgrades, or even a free flight. As a member, you often receive better customer service as well. The hotel or airline will want to keep you happy, so if something goes wrong during your travels, don’t be afraid to speak up. A good company will offer to compensate a loyal customer for any mistake, delay, or miscommunication on their end. If you’re a member of certain travel sites, you become privy to insider deals. For example, Hotels.com awards one free night in a hotel when you book ten.
