THE BENEFITS AND PITFALLS OF THIRD-PARTY TRAVEL PORTALS

How to maximize points while avoiding booking problems

- JT GENTER

UNLOCKING THE full value of travel rewards takes strategy. From stacking points through shopping portals and card-linked offers to navigating travel credits and partnerships, there are countless ways to boost your earnings. However, booking through third-party portals often comes with hidden downsides.

Savvy travelers know to use rewards cards to earn points and miles on purchases. However, travelers should look into ways to stack earnings through bonus points or cashback on purchases.

One of the easiest ways to do so is through online shopping. A bounty of portals reward shoppers with bonus airline miles, hotel points or cashback. To score these rewards, you need to log in and click through the link before completing your purchase with a merchant as you otherwise would.

Many card issuers also offer rewards for making purchases at particular merchants. These offers typically require a cardholder to enroll before making an eligible purchase. For example, American Express members can earn cashback or bonus points/ miles on purchases through Amex Offers. Other examples include Chase Offers, Citi Merchant Offers, Capital One Offers and Barclaycard Cashback Rewards.