Create accounts and standardize your identity
Create frequent flyer and hotel loyalty accounts for the programs you are likely to use. Ensure you use the same legal name (matching your passport), date of birth, and email/phone format everywhere.
Small mismatches can create significant administrative headaches when transferring points, requesting missing credits, or merging accounts. Consistency saves hours of back-and-forth with customer support later.
Security basics (this matters more than you think)
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every program. Loyalty accounts are a frequent target for hackers because stolen points can be redeemed quickly.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) wherever available. If a program supports account PINs or extra security questions, use them.
Hotel redemptions are comparatively easier
Almost all popular tourist destinations host multiple hotels from various brands, giving you a wide range of hotels and rooms to choose from.
Conversely, there may be only a few airlines that fly from your city to your preferred destination, making it tougher for beginners to find available award tickets.
Select a credit card that suits your needs
As a beginner, you start with zero hotel points and airline miles. Credit cards are the most powerful tool to jumpstart your balance, earning points that can later be transferred to partners.
Choose a card that aligns with your spending patterns. For instance, if your primary monthly expense is groceries, you should prioritize a card that offers high rewards on grocery spend.