India, March 22 -- T ravel rewards are often still associated with frequent flyer miles, but that notion is increasingly outdated. Many travellers remain unaware of the range of benefits available to them, and as a result, fail to fully leverage the rewards they are eligible for. In an interaction with us, Karthik Venkataraman, CPRO, VeTravel, Vernost, outlined key ways travellers can maximise their travel rewards. According to Venkataraman, every flight transaction presents multiple earning opportunities. Beyond airline miles, travellers can accumulate rewards through credit cards, debit cards and fintech platforms, creating a parallel value chain. When used together, this "double earning" mechanism can significantly accelerate rewards. He adds that several credit cards offer welcome bonuses or airline partnerships that translate into discounts and points, making it crucial to choose the right card. He also highlighted access-based benefits, an area that remains underutilised. Perks such as lounge access, priority check-in and extra baggage are no longer limited to frequent flyers. With the right partnerships and platforms, even occasional travellers can enjoy these privileges without additional costs. Another lesser-known aspect is insurance-based benefits. Venkataraman noted that many flight transactions come with built-in covers for delays, cancellations and baggage loss, especially when bookings are made through certain financial partners. "These are not just add-ons, but real security that travellers should benefit from," he said. The "pay with points" feature is emerging as one of the most flexible reward options, allowing users to redeem accumulated points directly on bookings without restrictions such as blackout dates or limited seat availability. This reflects a broader shift from passive accumulation to active usage of rewards. Finally, partnerships across the travel ecosystem are expanding earning opportunities. From hotels and taxis to in-flight purchases, travellers can now earn rewards across categories, turning a single journey into a multi-layered rewards experience. Venkataraman concluded that travel rewards today are less about flying more and more about flying smart. Those who understand and adapt to this shift stand to gain significantly from every trip....