Travel Problems Tip: Document Everything

a plane on the runway

If you’re going for a points or miles promo, or are offered compensation from an airline or company, document everything. And by document everything, I not only mean to take notes and save it somewhere you can find it, but consider making multiple copies, maybe even a PDF.

Last year I wrote about the problems I had with American Express when I was targeted for 3x points on advertising spend. I followed their guidelines, they claimed my card wasn’t eligible, even though I had multiple emails encouraging me to enroll that particular card. Ultimately it was resolved, but it wouldn’t have gone in my favor if I didn’t have copies of the original offers and my follow up communications.

This year’s reminder is the trouble I’m having redeeming my LAN travel voucher. I took a downgrade earlier this year that essentially made my Easter Island trip free! Well, eventually it will be free.

I hope.

I called in June to redeem, was told it would it would take 30-40 business days to appear on my credit card statement. Last week I realized I hadn’t seen it appear. And a mad scramble to hunt down the copy of my LAN Travel Pass ensued. Fortunately I had actually filed it with travel stuff and noted the date that I had called it in. I only wish I had gone one step further and created a PDF copy that I could access anywhere.

So I called them, and was transferred to a special desk who told me the credit wouldn’t show up as from LAN. Yes, I’ve not received a credit in that amount from ANYONE. She’s going to call their department that handles the actual reimbursement to find out the status. At least this round they took my email address so they can quickly let me know what’s going on, but I have a feeling this saga will continue…

What are your tips for avoiding extra problems when trying to redeem mileage and points offers?

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One Comment

  1. Agreed! Especially with phone agents.

    I was “walked” at a marriott for a promised 50,000 points. Sure enough, the points didnt post and the GM at the hotel told me no one was authorized to give over 20,000. If I didn’t have the agents name, I would have been screwed. Even better when you can get an email confirmation just in case.

    Attack problems quickly and proactively, taking detailed notes when possible

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