Your friend casually tells you: “I collect air miles.” When the words are spoken, it’s not always clear what they mean.
Air Miles, as a proper noun, refers to a Canadian rewards program. Despite a travel-oriented name, it’s more of an all-around shopping program. You’ll primarily earn and redeem Air Miles at retail partners. There are some travel sweet spots, but generally it’s not a useful program for scoring aspirational First Class experiences around the world.
It’s possible that your friend isn’t being specific about which rewards program they’re collecting. Some people use the generic phrase “air miles” interchangeably with words like points, rewards, or miles.
Often, the travel rewards attached to a specific loyalty program, such as Air Canada’s Aeroplan or American Express Membership Rewards, have much different uses than Air Miles.
If your friend is simplifying it for you, bring up your knowledge and talk shop. Or if they don’t actually know what type of travel rewards they’re earning, send them to Prince of Travel and we’ll straighten them out!