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Unlocking Travel Savings with VIPorter Points
For families who are passionate about traveling, every penny saved counts. You might have heard of the opportunities offered by Porter Airlines and its VIPorter network, but the question remains: Is booking Alaska Airlines and Air Transat flights with VIPorter points a smart move or just a fancy trap?
Porter Airlines has recently spiced up its VIPorter program with partnerships that allow members to earn and redeem points across different carriers, especially Air Transat and Alaska Airlines. While these airlines may not be globally recognized, they do offer various leisure destinations, making them an enticing choice for adventurous families.
How Does the Booking Process Work?
Fear not, fellow travelers! Booking flights with VIPorter is straightforward. First, log in to your VIPorter account. Select your preferred destinations using the drop-down menu on Porter’s homepage. You can look for flights using your points and choose the best option based on the number of VIPorter points required and the applicable taxes and fees.
For instance, an itinerary may require 34,000 VIPorter points and $90 in fees. But hold your horses before jumping to conclusions! When analyzed closely, this equates to a value of only about 0.7 cents per point, which might not be the best bang for your buck. On paper, it seems cash bookings may provide more value, but there are deeper considerations.
Understanding Value Beyond Cash
Now, let's not let numbers dull our travel excitement! While points valuations can be crucial, other factors such as convenience, direct flights, and family-friendly schedules also play a pivotal role, especially for busy parents. Sometimes, taking the scenic route with a stop or two may be more enjoyable for the family than opting for the quickest flight!
Moreover, if you plan to use your VIPorter points with the BMO VIPorter World Elite Mastercard, you can earn 3x points on taxes and fees. This card not only gives great earning potential but also includes travel insurance, ensuring peace of mind while you explore.
A Real Example: Is It Worth It?
Let’s delve into a real-life scenario. Imagine you and your family are excited to visit family in the U.S. Using VIPorter points for your itinerary involving Alaska Airlines may necessitate at least one leg on Porter. It's an option to consider, but weigh your family’s schedules, travel needs, and comfort levels against the points value.
Many families find it more liberating to connect with direct routes whenever possible, eschewing the use of points for less-than-ideal itineraries. However, if your goal is merely to visit family or explore a part of the country on a budget, VIPorter points can serve as a trade-off for hassle-free travel.
Tips for Maximizing Your VIPorter Points
As you ponder whether to redeem those VIPorter points for Air Transat or Alaska Airlines flights, consider these tips to help you get the most bang for your travel buck:
- Plan Early: Secure your flights during off-peak periods when possible to maximize value for VIPorter points.
- Compare Options: Review both cash and points costs for your flights. Sometimes, a better deal will be just a click away!
- Keep an Eye on Fees: Low points values can become inflated due to high additional fees, so take note!
- Use Companion Passes: Take advantage of BMO VIPorter Mastercard benefits that allow earning points and minimizing the travel burden against your budget.
Future Predictions: The Rise of Loyalty Programs
As the landscape of family travel changes, we may see a rise in loyalty programs as parents seek ways to travel economically. Airlines are aware of consumer choices and preferences and are adapting their programs to focus on convenience and value. As such, the importance of points programs like VIPorter will continue to grow, perhaps inviting new partnerships that cater specifically to family needs.
Imagine if popular family-friendly destinations were just a VIPorter point away, making dreams of travel to Europe or the USA even more feasible for your family!
Your Next Steps
In sum, families looking to travel on a budget have options that include points from Porter Airlines’ VIPorter program. While using these points for flights with Air Transat and Alaska Airlines can sometimes be of lesser value, convenience and comfort can make them worthwhile. Do your research, ask the right questions, and plan ahead to ensure a memorable journey for you and your loved ones.
Why not give your family the adventure of a lifetime? Embrace your travels with open arms and keep exploring the world together. Happy flying!
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