Noob Question- How do start planning my Miles redemption?

To begin with you have to ask yourself what do you really want to redeem? the airlines/alliances and the destinations...

Then start with 2-3 cards that could get you the miles for that particular alliances.

watch The miles if they would expire, if your spending is not too huge and require longer time to accumulate, try also aiming those program with no expiry date (Citi Premier Miles)

Hi anon,

Welcome to the game. Some tips:

1. Start by having an idea of your spending patterns. This will then allow you to determine which cards will allow you to maximize your miles accural.

2. Earn those miles wisely

3. Sign up for membership in most of the frequent FFPs. It's free

4. Read sites like Milelion and MainlyMiles to get some insights on what they redeem and the methods. This is also where you will find information on the various types of award flights and their respective costs. There is a wealth of information on their blogs, so I don't think it will be wise to reproduce everything here. Do take your time reading. I started miles years ago, so it takes time to build your knowledge

5. Find a destination you wish to head to and monitor award space on your desired travel dates

6. If there is space, transfer your miles in and book your flight

7. ????

8. Profit