You can find the perfect award seat, have the points ready, and still run into a problem because your loyalty account is too new. Some airline programs make new members wait before they can book awards, which is why it’s worth opening the loyalty accounts your credit card points transfer to before you actually need them.

American Airlines is also making seat selection easier. A new app feature can automatically move solo travelers into a window or aisle seat when one opens up in the same cabin, at no extra charge. It could save you from constantly checking the seat map yourself.

Plus, Atmos Rewards now lets members choose whether to earn based on distance, money spent, or flight segments on flights departing next year. Think of it as picking the earning method that makes the most sense for how you fly.

You don't need a Bilt credit card to earn Bilt Points. Join Bilt Rewards for free and earn points on purchases you're already making while still earning rewards from your credit card.

Take Lyft, for example. Link your Bilt and Lyft accounts to earn 2X Bilt Points on eligible rides. You can also earn bonus points at participating restaurants, Walgreens, and fitness studios through Bilt Neighborhood Benefits.

Split your clothes across suitcases when you're traveling with someone, so a delayed bag doesn't leave either of you starting from zero.

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