Miles And More

Miles & More is the loyalty program of Lufthansa and several partner airlines, making it one of the largest frequent flyer programs in Europe. Earning miles is at the heart of the program, opening doors to a range of rewards, from flight upgrades to hotel stays and shopping vouchers.

Earning Miles

The primary way to accumulate miles is, naturally, by flying with Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Eurowings, and their Star Alliance partners. The number of miles earned generally depends on the fare class booked and the distance flown. Higher fare classes typically reward more miles than heavily discounted economy tickets. Beyond flights, Miles & More partners with numerous hotels, car rental companies, and retailers, allowing members to earn miles on everyday purchases. Credit cards affiliated with Miles & More are another popular avenue, providing miles for spending and often offering welcome bonuses.

Spending Miles

Once you’ve accumulated a decent balance, the real fun begins. The most sought-after reward is undoubtedly award flights. These flights can be booked on Lufthansa and its partner airlines, often requiring fewer miles than purchasing a ticket outright, particularly for premium cabins. Upgrades are another enticing option, allowing you to elevate your travel experience to a higher class of service. Beyond flights, miles can be redeemed for hotel stays, rental cars, and items in the Worldshop, Miles & More’s online store. Members can also donate miles to charitable organizations.

Status Levels

Miles & More offers tiered status levels that unlock additional benefits. Frequent travelers can attain Frequent Traveller, Senator, and HON Circle status, each offering progressively better perks. These benefits include priority check-in, lounge access, extra baggage allowance, priority boarding, and bonus miles on flights. Status is typically earned by accumulating status miles or qualifying flights within a calendar year.

Partner Airlines

The program’s partnership with Star Alliance, a global network of airlines, significantly expands its reach. Miles can be earned and redeemed on flights with any Star Alliance member, providing access to destinations worldwide. This vast network makes Miles & More a particularly attractive option for travelers who fly frequently with different airlines.

Pros and Cons

Miles & More offers a strong network and plenty of earning opportunities, especially for those flying frequently within Europe or with Star Alliance partners. However, some criticize the program for requiring a relatively high number of miles for certain awards compared to other loyalty programs. Award flight availability can also be limited, particularly during peak travel seasons. Despite these drawbacks, the program’s wide range of partners and the benefits of elite status make it a valuable loyalty program for many travelers.

Conclusion

Miles & More is a comprehensive loyalty program that rewards frequent flyers with a variety of benefits. By understanding the program’s earning and spending options, and by strategizing your travel, you can maximize your miles and enjoy enhanced travel experiences.