What considerations should I make before redeeming my miles?

What considerations should I make before redeeming my miles?

Jen Leo (Daily Deal Blogger, LA Times Travel Section) gives expert video advice on: What is a "frequent flyer program"?; How do I accrue "miles" in my frequent flyer program?; Can my frequent flyer miles expire or transfer to other carriers? and more...

Before you redeem your miles, consider your options. You might not want to spend those hard earned points on something like a cheap domestic ticket that's under $200. Instead, think about what you can do by saving them towards an international ticket or even an upgrade to first class. If you're not going to use your miles for a ticket, you might want to consider using them for retail goods and spending them like cash. A lot of the airline providers have teamed up or partnered with retail stores so that you can spend your redeemed miles like cash. You can also even use them as a charitable donation.