The Best Frequent Flyer Programs to Join in 2023

Taking advantage of the best frequent flyer programs to join in 2023 is one of the smartest ways to earn miles for your ultimate dream vacation.

However, not all these programs are made equal, so choosing the right one for you might not be that easy and simple.

You’ll want to make sure that you only sign up for a loyalty program from airlines that serve your home airport and offer amazing perks for elite members.

Below are some options you can consider:

KLM/Air France Flying Blue

The joint Flying Blue program of KLM and Air France is among the best choices you’ve got in the SkyTeam alliance. It partners with the four transferable rewards programs: Citi ThankYou Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One Venture, and Membership Rewards.

Aside from the easy way to earn Flying Blue miles, they also go a long way because of the generous sweet spot rewards.

Alaska Mileage Plan

Alaska Mileage Plan, a part of the OneWorld Alliance, is among the best frequent flyer programs to join in 2023 for all domestic travelers. The elite status requirements of the program are reasonable, and it is among the few airlines that continue to publish an award chart.

It makes it easier for members to determine the number of miles required for a flight. The free stopover allowance of the program on one-way awards lets you further stretch your miles by working several trips into a single award redemption.

All Nippon Airlines (ANA) Mileage Club

ANA Mileage Club is another great frequent flyer program in 2023 if you are looking for cheap award flights. ANA belongs to the Star Alliance, which is known for having the most comprehensive routing network of all the airline alliances in the world. It means that your ANA miles will let you travel almost anywhere you want.

To make things even better, ANA also requires fewer miles for long-haul awards to famous destinations. You only need 88,000 miles to get a European round-trip business class award.

ANA Mileage Club is also a 1:1 transfer partner of the Amex Membership Rewards program. It means your earned points from the American Express® Gold Card and the Platinum Card® from American Express can be converted into amazing award redemptions.

American Airlines

While the AAdvantage program of American Airlines is far from perfect, it still got a few things going for it. The program continues to publish an award chart with some sweet spots and off-peak redemptions available.

American Airlines is also the only frequent flyer program that considers almost all earned rewards to be elite. It includes purchases made through shopping portals, dining rewards, and credit card spending. Simply put, AAdvantage can help you earn top-tier elite status even if you never step foot on a plane.

Southwest Rapid Rewards

Rounding up the list of the best frequent flyer programs to join in 2023 is the Southwest Rapid Rewards program, ideal for all domestic travelers who prefer a straightforward loyalty program offering practical rewards.

As a member, you can earn points depending on the fare cost and type. Aside from making your way to a higher status, you can also qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass once you earn 125,000 miles.

With the best frequent flyer programs to join in 2023, you can go on amazing trips and enjoy great rewards at the same time!