With the price of flying around the world continuing to drop, now is as good time as ever to take that well-deserved break. However, did you know that it’s possible to access even more benefits and exclusive deals as part of a loyalty program?

The key point to remember is that airlines now face massive competition, so these programs will only get bigger and better for consumers moving forward. Check out what the major airlines around the Australasia region offer!

Qantas

What is their loyalty program called?

Frequent Flyer (This loyalty program is also available for Jetstar customers).

Is it free to join?

No. There is a joining fee of AU$89.50 (including GST) for Australian residents and NZD$50 for New Zealand residents.

What are the benefits in joining?

Earn Qantas Points through not only flying Qantas, but also through using and shopping at selected banks, shops, car hire, hotels, restaurants and more. Use your collected Qantas Points on everything from travel insurance and flight upgrades, to fantastic products from the Qantas Store.

What major international flights does the airline offer out of Australia?

Being Australia’s largest airline, Qantas flies to major destinations including London, Paris, Barcelona, Dubai and Los Angeles.

Virgin Australia

What is their loyalty program called?

Velocity Frequent Flyer.

Is it free to join?

Yes.

What are the benefits in joining?

Earn Velocity Points through flying Virgin Australia or purchasing goods and services from their network of global program partners. Use Velocity Points to purchase flights and flight upgrades, as well as car hire, accommodation and restaurants at your destination. You can also use Velocity Points for products, vouchers and everyday rewards at home.

What major international flights does the airline offer out of Australia?

As Australia’s second-largest airline, Virgin Australia flies to many major destinations including Paris, New York, Vancouver, Abu Dhabi and Cairo.

Air New Zealand

What is their loyalty program called?

Airpoints.

Is it free to join?

Yes.

What are the benefits in joining?

Earn Airpoints dollars on every Air New Zealand flight as well as through JR Duty Free purchases, travel partners, card partners and selected shopping outlets. Spend your Airpoints dollars on flight rewards, Koru Club membership, companion tickets, travel partners and upgrades.

What major international flights does the airline offer out of New Zealand?

As New Zealand’s flagship airline, Air New Zealand flies to direct to the US, Canada, South America and the Pacific Islands.

Cathay Pacific

What is their loyalty program called?

Asia Miles.

Is it free to join?

Yes.

What are the benefits in joining?

Asia Miles are earned by flying (a percentage of actual miles flown, depending on travel class), purchasing duty-free products and everyday spending. Redeem Asia Miles to enjoy flights around the world, car rentals, hotel upgrades and more.

What major international flights does the airline offer out of Australia?

As Hong Kong’s flagship airline, Cathay Pacific is a great way to get to Asian destinations including Beijing, Osaka, Ho Chi Minh City and Seoul.

Although airline loyalty programs seem similar, it pays to join as many as possible. As points/dollars are available for several years, you can ensure you’re always earning when you fly. Before you depart for your flight, just remember to take the right travel insurance out as well!

Information is current as of August 2, 2017. Please check the airline’s website for the latest information.