Q: Can I redeem miles for non-travel awards?
A: Yes, but you have very limited options.
Certain airlines allow you to redeem miles for hotel or resort stays, car rentals, cruises, train rides, and other non-travel rewards. Check with your airline to see which non-travel awards it offers, if any.
Many major airlines also partner with Points.com and MilePoint.com. Points.com allows you to exchange airline miles for miles or points in other loyalty programs, such as Starbucks and eBay. You can then redeem your new points for non-travel awards; however, the conversion loss will be significant. MilePoint.com allows you to redeem your miles for magazines, as well as discounts on cruises and resort stays.
In addition, most airlines have a charity affiliation and allow frequent travelers to donate their unwanted miles for use by a charity.
