Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

How to Use the Delta SkyMiles Shopping Portal to Earn More Miles [2023]

Caroline Lupini's image

Caroline Lupini

Former Content Contributor

15 Published Articles

Countries Visited: U.S. States Visited:

Keri Stooksbury's image

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3091 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Kellie Jez's image

Director of Operations & Compliance

1 Published Article 1170 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 10 U.S. States Visited: 20

How to Use the Delta SkyMiles Shopping Portal to Earn More Miles [2023]

How to Log in and the Basics of Using SkyMiles Shopping

Special shopping offers, example retailers, delta skymiles shopping button, american express membership rewards cards, delta skymiles cards, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Are you a fan of earning Delta SkyMiles? What if we said you could earn even more for no extra cost and hardly any additional work? Does it sound too good to be true? It’s not!

This article will tell you everything you need to know about using SkyMiles Shopping to earn extra Delta SkyMiles.

SkyMiles Shopping login

Without logging in, you can only see how many bonus miles are offered at various retailers. You will need to be logged in to your account to earn a bonus through SkyMiles Shopping.

If you are already a member of the Delta SkyMiles program , you do not need to create separate login information for the online shopping portal. If you are not yet a member, you will want to first create an account.

SkyMiles Shopping login detail

Once you are logged into SkyMiles Shopping , you can easily search for retailers you want, see how many bonus miles are being offered, and click through to shop with them!

SkyMiles Shopping Kohls

Let’s say you are interested in shopping at Kohl’s. At the time of writing, it was possible to earn 2 extra Delta SkyMiles per dollar spent on purchases at kohls.com through the portal.

To earn bonus miles, you need to click “Shop This Offer,” which will redirect you to kohls.com. Once you’re there, just complete your purchase at the site. Other than that, you don’t need to do anything special to earn the extra miles!

Hot Tip: Using a coupon code that is not provided by SkyMiles Shopping will make your purchase ineligible to earn SkyMiles. 

Occasionally, it is possible to earn even more bonus miles by way of special shopping offers. These aren’t going on all the time, but they are definitely worth keeping an eye out for!

Delta doesn’t seem to offer quite as many bonuses as other portals, but here is a recent example:

  • Spend $150 and earn 500 bonus miles; spend $350 and earn 1,000 bonus miles.

SkyMiles Shopping example retailers

Participating retailers and potential mileage bonuses in the Delta SkyMiles Shopping mall change regularly. At the time of writing, these were some of the better-earning rates being offered:

  • Verizon Wireless: 3,000 miles
  • FTD.com Flowers & Gifts: 20 miles per $1
  • Stitch Fix: 15 miles per $1
  • Xfinity – TV, Internet & Voice: 15 miles per $1
  • Grubhub: 6 miles per $1
  • Coach: 5 miles per $1

SkyMiles Shopping button

With the SkyMiles Shopping button, you don’t have to use the shopping portal to earn your miles.

When you download the browser plugin for Chrome, you can shop as you would normally on individual retailer’s websites and earn miles as you do.

A pop-up will appear when you’re browsing an eligible retailer’s website and all you need to do is click “Activate.” Every dollar you spend will then earn SkyMiles automatically!

Hot Tip: Use a site like CashBack Monitor to easily search for offers from any store at over 40 different shopping portals (including the SkyMiles Shopping portal).

Using Credit Cards to Earn Extra SkyMiles and Points

Just because the SkyMiles Shopping portal is offering extra bonus miles doesn’t mean you should use a debit card instead of a points or miles-earning credit card!

If your main goal is to earn Delta SkyMiles , you should focus on credit cards that earn Delta rewards directly or credit cards that earn Amex Membership Rewards (which can be transferred to Delta at a 1:1 ratio).

Also, make sure to consider whether the retailer is part of a category bonus being offered on a specific credit card… choose the one you “swipe” accordingly!

Below are the credit cards that earn Delta SkyMiles directly as well as those that earn transferable American Express Membership Rewards.

Recommended Amex Cards (Personal)

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card ® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
  • Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment ( airline credit, Uber Cash credit, Saks Fifth Avenue credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR credit, and Equinox credit )
  • TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
  • Access to American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts
  • Access to Amex International Airline Program
  • No foreign transaction fees ( rates and fees )
  • $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card ® , Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card ® . Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
  • $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card ® . Learn more.
  • $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card ® . An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

  • Credit Card Reviews
  • Credit Cards
  • Travel Rewards Credit Cards
  • Best Sign Up Bonuses

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

  • Amex Platinum 150k Welcome Bonus Offer
  • Benefits of The Amex Platinum
  • How to Use 100,000 Amex Platinum Points
  • Amex Platinum Card Requirements
  • American Express Platinum Military Benefits
  • Amex Platinum and Business Platinum Lounge Access
  • Amex Platinum Benefits for Authorized Users
  • Amex Platinum vs Delta Platinum
  • Amex Platinum vs Chase Sapphire Reserve
  • Capital One Venture X vs Amex Platinum
  • Amex Platinum vs Delta Reserve

American Express® Gold Card

American Express ® Gold Card

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

The American Express ® Gold Card  is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

  • 4x points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; and 1x thereafter
  • 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at Amex Travel
  • Up to $120 annual dining credit: up to $10 monthly statement credit when you pay with the Amex Gold card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com , Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations
  • Up to $120 in annual Uber Cash : get $10 monthly in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. when you add your Gold Card to your Uber account
  • No foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees )
  • Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection
  • Access to American Express transfer partners
  • $250 annual fee (see rates and fees )
  • No lounge access
  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards ® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards ® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express ® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
  • Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
  • Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $250.
  • Find the Amex Gold 75k or 90k Welcome Bonus Offer
  • Benefits of the Amex Gold
  • Upgrade Amex Gold to Amex Platinum
  • Amex Gold Benefits for Military
  • Amex Gold vs Blue Cash Preferred
  • Amex Platinum vs Amex Gold
  • Amex Gold vs Delta Gold

Business owner? See our list of the best Amex business credit cards .

Hot Tip: Check your Amex Offers before any online purchases to see if you can earn extra Amex Membership Rewards points when you shop at a SkyMiles Shopping retailer!

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card

This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free checked bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.

Frequent Delta flyers will love the Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card . The card offers great benefits that will help save you money, effectively mimics low-level elite status with Delta SkyMiles, and helps you earn miles even faster, all for a low annual fee. Let’s dive into the benefits to see if the Delta Gold card is a good fit for your needs.

  • $100 Delta Stays Credit: You can earn up to $100 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com .
  • Receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel after you spend $10,000 in purchases in a year.
  • Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Bonus earning on Delta purchases and U.S. supermarket and worldwide restaurant purchases
  • First checked bag free on Delta flights
  • 20% back as a statement credit on in-flight purchases
  • Moderate annual fee
  • Earn rate for Delta flights is relatively low compared to other travel cards
  • Earn 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $150.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • $200 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases in a year, you can receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel.
  • Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • You can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $60 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $240 per round-trip flight.
  • Receive Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
  • $100 Delta Stays Credit: Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card Members can earn up to $100 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
  • Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
  • Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
  • With Send & Split ® , you can send money and split your Card purchases with any other Venmo or PayPal user, directly from the Amex App. Enroll today.
  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
  • Airline Credit Cards

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

  • Find the 70k Welcome Bonus Offer for the Delta Gold Card
  • Benefits of the Amex Delta Gold
  • Do I Need To Pay With My Airline Credit Card To Get Free Checked Bags & Perks?
  • Best Credit Cards for Delta Flyers
  • Comparison of Amex Delta Credit Cards

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

The Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card can be a great option for those seeking additional ways to obtain a higher level of status — or to maintain their current status — with the airline.

A key feature of this card is the ability to earn bonus Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning a handful of valuable benefits with the airline.

  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta purchases
  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases made directly with hotels
  • 2x SkyMiles per $1 spent at restaurants (including takeout and delivery) and U.S. supermarkets
  • 1x SkyMile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. Taxes and fees will apply.
  • Receive $2,500 MQDs each year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
  • Complimentary first checked bag
  • Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding
  • $120 Resy Credit: Earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases.
  • $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers upon enrollment.
  • Application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
  • $150 Delta Stays Credit: Earn up to $150 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
  • $350 annual fee ( rates & fees )
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
  • Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Receive $2,500 Medallion ® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Earn $1 Medallion ® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
  • Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
  • $120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ® : Receive $100 back for Global Entry or up to $85 back for TSA PreCheck ® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
  • $350 Annual Fee.

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

  • Find the 100K Welcome Bonus Offer for the Delta Platinum
  • Benefits of the Amex Delta Platinum
  • Amex Gold vs Delta Platinum
  • How To Get Delta Medallion Status

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

The Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
  • 1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases
  • Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.
  • Receive $2,500 MQM each year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+ ® , or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal.
  • $240 Resy Credit: Earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases upon enrollment.
  • Application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
  • $200 Delta Stays Statement Credit: Earn up to $200 back in the form of a statement credit annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
  • Access to Complimentary Upgrades and Upgrade Priority
  • Free checked bag
  • $650 annual fee ( rates & fees )
  • No bonus categories other than Delta purchases
  • Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club ® and bring up to two guests or immediate family members at a rate of $50 per person per visit when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • Receive four Delta Sky Club ® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly together on Delta. After that, you may bring up to two guests at a per-visit rate of $50 per person, per location.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion ® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • Earn $1 Medallion ® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+ ® , or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • $240 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
  • $120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
  • Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • $650 Annual Fee.

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

  • How to Find the 100k Welcome Offer for the Delta Reserve Card [Current Public Offer is 60K]
  • Benefits of the Amex Delta Reserve Card

Using the SkyMiles Shopping portal is an easy way to get a little bit of extra bang just for shopping online, which you’re probably already doing. It’s very little extra work, and the bonus miles will quickly add up!

Try using the SkyMiles Dining program as well to really maximize rewards. Soon enough you’ll be on your way to having enough SkyMiles for a reward flight !

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click  here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of miles can i earn through skymiles shopping.

The rewards earned are Delta SkyMiles .

Do the miles earned through SkyMiles Shopping count toward Million Miler status?

No, they will not count toward Million Miler status.

Is there a limit to the number of miles I can earn at SkyMiles Shopping?

There is no limit to the number of rewards you can earn through SkyMiles Shopping.

Do I need to submit my receipt to SkyMiles Shopping to claim my miles?

No, you do not need to submit your receipt or do anything else besides complete a purchase in order to claim the miles earned through the Delta SkyMiles Shopping portal.

Why isn't the retailer I want to shop at listed on SkyMiles Shopping?

Retailers participating with Delta’s SkyMiles Shopping portal change frequently. If your retailer isn’t participating, see if you can order a similar item through a different retailer.

Was this page helpful?

About Caroline Lupini

Caroline Lupini always enjoyed traveling, but it became her goal to do as much as possible after a 3-week trip around Europe in 2011. In March 2014, Caroline left her job and embarked on nearly full-time travels. 

As a frequent traveler, frequent flyer miles have played a large role in planning her trips. Caroline has enjoyed discovering the ins and outs of how to maximize different types of miles, hotel points, and transferable points currencies.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

How To Use The Delta SkyMiles Dining Portal To Earn More Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

How to redeem Delta SkyMiles for maximum value

Kyle Olsen

Since Delta eliminated its award charts in 2015, the SkyMiles program has become notably more unpredictable and, at times, outrageously expensive. With business-class flights on long-haul routes often priced at over 450,000 SkyMiles, it's understandable to feel like your SkyMiles balance holds little value.

But if you have a stockpile of Delta miles, they are far from worthless . There are still excellent redemptions available, particularly during the carrier's award sales.

So, let's explore some strategies for maximizing the value of your Delta SkyMiles.

Redeem on Delta flights

skymiles travel marketplace

You can use your Delta SkyMiles to book Delta, Delta Connection and Delta Shuttle flights. Since Delta uses dynamic pricing, award rates can vary significantly. For example, in November, one-way main cabin award rates from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) range between 16,000 and 49,000 miles.

skymiles travel marketplace

Even though Thanksgiving travel skews award prices over these dates, significant price volatility is normal. If you want to maximize your SkyMiles, flexibility is important.

Taxes and fees are generally reasonable on Delta tickets. Expect to pay $5.60 per person in taxes and fees on most domestic tickets and international tickets departing the U.S. However, Delta adds carrier-imposed surcharges on many awards that start outside the U.S., most notably those originating in Europe .

Keep an eye out for SkyMiles deals

A great option for redeeming Delta miles is taking advantage of SkyMiles deals. These deals typically apply to specific city pairs, so it may be necessary to book positioning flights to fully maximize these promotions.

Last year, Delta offered a flash sale with round-trip flights for just 5,000 SkyMiles . The airline recently offered round-trip airfare to Auckland Airport (AKL) from most major U.S. airports for just 37,400 SkyMiles round-trip.

If you have no immediate use for your SkyMiles, you may be best off saving them for the next big SkyMiles deal. Just be sure to keep an eye on Delta's SkyMiles deals page .

Save at least 15% with select Delta credit cards

If you have an eligible Delta credit card , you can save 15% on Delta-operated award flights when you use your miles and pay the taxes and fees with the card. This can be a great option to reduce the price you pay on Delta award tickets — and a major reason to open (and keep) a Delta card in your wallet.

Read more: Best Delta credit cards

Rebook when prices drop (or cancel when your plans change)

Once you've used your miles on a Delta flight, be sure to keep your eyes on the award rates. As long as you're not on a basic economy ticket, Delta offers the ability to rebook flights when prices drop, and you'll receive the mileage difference back in your account. You should even be able to do this right from the Delta App.

And if your plans change, you should be able to cancel your flight for a full refund of both the miles and the taxes and fees — again, unless you're on a basic economy ticket.

Related: Complete guide to changing and canceling award tickets

Redeem on partner flights

skymiles travel marketplace

Delta is a member of the SkyTeam alliance and has three non-alliance airline partners. This gives you more flexibility to redeem your SkyMiles on various airlines and routes across the globe. Here is the complete list of Delta's airline partners:

SkyTeam partners

  • Aerolinas Argentinas
  • China Airlines
  • China Eastern Airlines
  • Czech Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Garuda Indonesia
  • ITA Airways
  • Kenya Airways
  • Middle East Airlines
  • Vietnam Airlines
  • Virgin Atlantic

Non-alliance partners

  • Hawaiian Airlines

Although there are no online award charts, partner awards generally have a specific price range. For example, one-way business-class airfare from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Mexico City International Airport (MEX) ranges between 42,000 and 44,000 miles.

skymiles travel marketplace

Another great option is WestJet-operated flights from the U.S. to Canada. Round-trip award tickets in economy class still clock in at 25,000 miles plus ~$60 in taxes and fees, and availability is relatively widespread, especially when you book in advance.

skymiles travel marketplace

These flights routinely cost more than $500, giving you a redemption value of more than 2 cents per miles.

Delta also has some appealing non-U.S. partner sweet spots.

For example, Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) on Air France business class generally costs around 42,500 miles plus 120 United Arab Emirates Dirham (around $32). In comparison, Tokyo's Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND) to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) costs 35,000 miles plus up to 6,910 Japanese Yen (around $50) for a connecting business-class Korean Air or China Airlines flight.

skymiles travel marketplace

Delta can increase these rates at any time, and they have done so on multiple occasions . To obtain the current award price, you will need to contact Delta directly or search the website.

While Delta has tried to improve its website to display partner awards, it may still have limitations, particularly when booking mixed-cabin itineraries. The website often prioritizes Delta-operated flights, which may not be ideal if you have specific flight requirements. We recommend searching for flights segment by segment and being prepared to call Delta if the website doesn't offer the desired trip options.

Related: The best websites for searching SkyTeam award availability

Redeem for upgrades

skymiles travel marketplace

You can also use your SkyMiles for upgrades to a higher class of service. If you have a confirmed Delta-marketed and operated flight, you should have the option to pay cash or use miles to upgrade your flight directly on Delta's website.

If you redeem your miles for an upgrade using this method, you'll generally get around 1 cent per mile, which is lower than our 1.2 cent valuation of Delta SkyMiles . This could be a viable option if you have a surplus of SkyMiles and no immediate plans for their use. However, we generally recommend prioritizing award flight redemptions, as discussed in previous sections.

You can also use Delta miles to upgrade specific flights operated by Air France, KLM, Virgin Atlantic or Aeromexico. This option is subject to fare class requirements and is available only on select routes each partner operates. For more details, please refer to Delta's " upgrade with miles " page.

You'll also want to make sure there's upgrade inventory available. Fortunately, all four partner airlines mentioned above publish business-class award inventory on ExpertFlyer (owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures), allowing easy searching and setting up alerts if the desired seats are unavailable when you book your flight.

Related: All the tips and tricks you need to use Delta Upgrade Certificates

Redeem for Delta Vacations

skymiles travel marketplace

Delta Vacations recently enhanced redemption rates for SkyMiles members looking to use their rewards for vacations. You'll get at least 1.15 cents when you use your miles to cover a Delta Vacation.

In practice, however, you can occasionally find better redemption rates.

A two-day escape from Los Angeles to Hawaii with lodging at the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach costs $1,797.90. Alternatively, you can redeem 143,832 SkyMiles to book this vacation (a 1.25-cent redemption rate).

skymiles travel marketplace

In this example, Delta also includes a round-trip transfer from the airport to the hotel, whether you pay with miles or cash.

Related: Delta Vacations enhances earning rates and redemption value for SkyMiles members

How to earn Delta miles quickly

skymiles travel marketplace

You'll need to have SkyMiles to take advantage of the redemptions mentioned above. Fortunately, there are several ways to increase your balance. One of the simplest ways to earn Delta miles is by using Delta's cobranded American Express credit cards (terms apply). Here are some of the current welcome offers available for these cards:

  • Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card : Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months. The card has a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 (see rates and fees ).
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card : Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months. The card has a $350 annual fee (see rates and fees ).
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card : Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months. The card has a $650 annual fee (see rates and fees ).
  • Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card : Earn 55,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership. The card has a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then a $150 annual fee (see rates and fees ).
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card : Earn 65,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 in purchases in the first six months of card membership The card has a $350 annual fee (see rates and fees ).
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card : Earn 75,000 Bonus miles after spending $10,000 in purchases in the first six months of card membership. The card has a $650 annual fee (see rates and fees ).

Remember that any of these cards include access to the TakeOff 15 benefit , which will save you at least 15% on Delta-operated award flights.

You can also transfer American Express Membership Rewards points from cards like the American Express® Gold Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express to Delta SkyMiles at a 1:1 ratio. However, you'll be subject to an excise tax offset fee . And Marriott Bonvoy points transfer to Delta SkyMiles at a 3:1 ratio.

Related: Points of View: Which credit card should you use for Delta Air Lines flights?

Bottom line

Although the value of Delta SkyMiles has decreased in recent years, there are still excellent deals to be found. While the program has been moving toward a redemption value of 1 cent per mile, you can still surpass that, especially with SkyMiles deals and Delta Vacations.

Additional reporting by Ethan Steinberg.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Gold Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Gold Business Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business Card, click here .

  • Credit cards
  • View all credit cards
  • Banking guide
  • Loans guide
  • Insurance guide
  • Personal finance
  • View all personal finance
  • Small business
  • Small business guide
  • View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

The Complete Guide to Delta SkyMiles

Sally French

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

Sign-up for Delta SkyMiles

How do delta skymiles work, how much are delta skymiles worth, delta vs. competitors, how to earn delta skymiles, how to redeem delta skymiles, delta skymiles medallion status, delta's airline partners, delta skymiles credit cards, flying on delta, is the delta skymiles program right for you.

One of the largest airlines in North America and the world, Delta Air Lines operates hubs at eight U.S. airports: Atlanta (which is Delta’s headquarters), Boston, Cincinnati, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Salt Lake City and Seattle-Tacoma. International hubs and key Delta markets are Amsterdam, Mexico City, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Seoul-Incheon and Tokyo

Delta is huge on its own, but it is also a member of the SkyTeam alliance, which includes airlines like Aeromexico, Air France-KLM, China Eastern, Korean Air and Virgin Atlantic. Then it has its own separate international airline partners including LATAM and WestJet, making it possible to earn and redeem Delta SkyMiles (and get elite status benefits) on other airlines besides Delta.

But you don’t need to live in a Delta-dominated city or fly the airline regularly to benefit from the airline's frequent flyer program, Delta SkyMiles. If there’s a chance you’ll fly Delta in the future, you might as well sign up for SkyMiles as the program is free to join. And given its wide array of partnerships with companies ranging from Lyft to Starbucks, there are tons of ways to earn Delta miles so you can get closer to that free flight — even if you're not a jetsetter.

To start earning miles with Delta, sign up for a SkyMiles frequent flyer account. Register here ; it’s free to join.

Beyond serving as the loyalty program name, SkyMiles are also the currency that members can earn and later redeem for flights with Delta or partners, hotel stays and other rewards.

You can generally earn miles by flying, spending on cards (Delta has several co-branded cards for its loyalists), traveling with partners, or dining and shopping through designated programs.

Delta SkyMiles do not expire, which is great news for infrequent travelers or those who have loyalty across multiple airline programs.

» Jump ahead to credit cards that earn SkyMiles or see our roundup of the best Delta credit cards

Video preview image

» Learn more: Considerations before joining airline loyalty programs

Based on the most recent analysis, NerdWallet values Delta Air Lines SkyMiles at 1.2 cents apiece. To determine the value of reward miles, we compared cash prices and reward redemptions for economy roundtrip routes across several destinations and dates. We divided the cost of the cash ticket by the cost of the reward ticket to determine a “cent per mile” value for each flight, then averaged this value across several flights and dates. Read more about how we arrived at these figures .

This is therefore a baseline value for Delta miles, based on real-world data collected from hundreds of economy routes; it is not a maximized value. In other words, you should aim for award redemptions that offer 1.2 cents or more in value from your Delta miles.

» Learn more: Better understand the value of Delta SkyMiles

How has this value changed over time?

Like many other airline miles, the value of Delta SkyMiles jumped in 2021 and 2022, up from a low of 0.9 cents per mile in 2020. As of 2023, the value is 1.2 cents .

Delta came in fourth place out of nine airlines in the best overall airline category in NerdWallet’s most recent analysis on the best airlines . It was edged out by Alaska, Hawaiian and American Airlines.

In a separate analysis of the best airline rewards programs , Delta SkyMiles landed in sixth place, beating only Frontier, Southwest and Spirit.

Delta is a bit of a funky airline in terms of its rankings. While some airlines rank consistently high or low across the board, Delta was all over the place. Here's a closer look at how it competed across subcategories:

Sixth in rewards rate .

First in operations .

Fifth in elite status benefits .

Fifth in terms of total fees .

Delta offers the worst basic economy ticket .

First in in-flight experience .

Third in most pet-friendly airlines .

Flying on Delta and its partner airlines is the easiest way to earn miles. But there are ways to rack up miles besides flying, such as using a Delta-branded credit card or spending money with Delta partner companies.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

The Delta SkyMiles you earn never expire as long as your account is open; this is different from how things work with some other frequent-flyer programs.

How are SkyMiles calculated?

Earn miles by flying on delta.

The number of SkyMiles you earn on Delta flights is based on how much you spend, not how far you fly. The base earning rate is 5 miles per $1 spent, but you earn higher rates depending on whether you have elite status, which Delta refers to as "Medallion" status. (We'll have more on Medallion levels later — or you can jump ahead to that part now .)

You earn SkyMiles only on the base fare and fees imposed by the airline. You don't earn any rewards on taxes or government-imposed fees that are rolled into the cost of your ticket.

So if you are a basic SkyMiles member and spend $150 on a flight, $50 of which is fees, you’ll earn 5 x 100 = 500 SkyMiles. Note, you will not earn SkyMiles on any basic economy tickets.

Earn Delta miles by flying on partner airlines

Each partner airline has its own rules for earning SkyMiles. In general, the rewards you earn on partner airlines are based on the distance of the flight — so they really are "miles." You can earn bonus miles based on the fare class (such as economy, business or first) and your Medallion status.

Spend on Delta credit cards

Delta offers co-branded credit cards with American Express. See below for a more detailed look at Delta's co-branded card collection .

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

Our favorite Delta credit card is the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card . The card gives you 2 SkyMiles per dollar spent with Delta. When you pay for tickets with the card, you get the first checked bag free for you and up to eight other people traveling on your reservation. Terms apply.

There's a great welcome bonus for new cardholders, too: Earn 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply. The annual fee is $0 intro for the first year, then $150 .

» Jump ahead to other credit cards that earn SkyMiles

Other ways to earn Delta SkyMiles

Delta's non-airline partners include:

Hotels and Airbnb: You can earn SkyMiles at thousands of properties in most major hotel chains. In some cases, you earn a flat number of points per stay; in others, you earn points based on how much you spend. You can also earn miles at Airbnb. See hotel partners and earning rules here .

Auto rentals and Lyft: Several major rental agencies have an option to earn SkyMiles. And if you prefer rental car alternatives , here's a deal from Turo: Delta SkyMiles Members who link their SkyMiles number to their Turo profile will be able to earn 2,000 miles on their first Turo trip and 500 miles on every trip thereafter. You can also earn miles using the Lyft ride-hailing service. Details here .

Dining : Register your credit card with SkyMiles Dining and earn up to 5 miles per dollar when you use that card at thousands of participating restaurants. (You can use any credit card; it doesn't have to be a Delta-branded card.)

Shopping: Earn miles at hundreds of online merchants through the airline's shopping portal, SkyMiles Shopping .

Transfer from other programs: Delta SkyMiles is a transfer partner for both American Express Membership Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy .

Purchase SkyMiles

You can buy additional SkyMiles through the Delta website, but this generally isn't a good value. SkyMiles cost 3.5 cents apiece when purchased like this, which means you're paying more than three times what the miles are worth on average.

» Learn more: Your guide to earning Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

So how do you use points from Delta SkyMiles? Not all redemptions are created equal. Use these tips to maximize Delta SkyMiles redemption value.

Good redemption options

SkyMiles are redeemable for flights through Delta Air Lines and its partners. In most cases, you redeem by booking through Delta's website. Go to the booking tool and choose the option for seeing the price in miles. Then enter information about when and where you want to travel, and choose your fare class.

How many SkyMiles are needed for a flight? It depends on your destination, but SkyMiles members can redeem as few as 4,500 SkyMiles for a domestic short-haul flight.

Basic Economy: This is a no-frills fare. You sit in a standard seat and get free drinks and snacks. However, you don't get to pick your seat, you're the last to board the plane, you can't get upgraded even with Medallion status, and there are fees of $99 or $199 to change a flight. You cannot book Basic Economy fares with miles and you cannot earn any miles on Basic Economy fares.

Main Cabin: This is a standard economy seat. You get free nonalcoholic drinks and basic snacks, plus seatback entertainment when available.

Delta Comfort+: This is essentially "economy plus." You get 4 inches of extra legroom and dedicated overhead carry-on storage.

First Class: You get a bigger seat with more legroom; free alcoholic drinks, snacks and meals on longer flights; dedicated storage and flight attendant service; and priority boarding.

Delta Premium Select: This is first class with extra-comfortable seating and amenities, available on select international flights.

Delta One: This is first class with lie-flat seating, available only on select long-haul flights.

Unlike some other airlines, Delta doesn't publish an award chart showing you exactly how many miles you need for a given flight. You have to figure it out the hard way — by entering your flight information and seeing what it costs in terms of miles.

Delta advertises that there are no blackout dates for award travel.

You can also use miles to purchase seat upgrades; membership to Delta Sky Clubs airport lounges; vacation packages; exclusive experiences; merchandise, gift cards, hotel stays and car rental in the SkyMiles Marketplace; or donations to charity through Delta SkyWish. See details about these and other options here .

If you happen to have at least 2.5 million SkyMiles in your account — and who doesn't? — you can redeem them for private jet travel. According to Delta , those 2.5 million points are "enough to take up to four passengers round-trip from Atlanta to South Florida."

» Learn more: Plan your next Delta SkyMiles redemption with our airline points tool

Bad redemption options

For the most part, using SkyMiles for anything other than flights will result in below-average redemption values. Delta and its partners might push promotions for these unorthodox redemption options, but don’t take the bait. Unless the offer is really extraordinary, you’re almost always better off using miles for flights.

Because Delta ties the cost of award flights closely to the cash price, you might see some very high award prices when cash prices are high. Although these are not necessarily bad options, it does mean you should double-check that the value you’re getting from miles is equal to or greater than the value you’re getting by just paying cash.

» Learn more: Complete guide to redeeming Delta SkyMiles

Anyone can join the Delta SkyMiles program for free, but to move up from basic membership to elite status (where the real perks are), you need to fly the airline regularly. In 2024, Delta revamped how its members earn elite status in an effort to reward its most loyal flyers (i.e. highest spenders).

Delta SkyMiles program levels and benefits

The SkyMiles Medallion program has four levels. In order from lowest level to highest level, they are:

Silver Medallion .

Gold Medallion .

Platinum Medallion .

Diamond Medallion .

All Medallion members get unlimited complimentary upgrades, complimentary preferred seats, priority check-in and priority boarding and waived baggage fees ( which were raised by $5 for domestic flights in early 2024 ).

All levels higher than Silver get priority security lane access and priority baggage service at select airports, waived same-day confirmed fees and are eligible for upgrades as early as right after ticketing (depending on status tier) to 72 hours before departure. .

Gold, Platinum and Diamond Medallion benefits also include:

For Platinum and Diamond status only: Choice benefits

Medallion members at the Platinum and Diamond levels are eligible for "Delta Choice Benefits," in which they choose the premium benefits they want from a list. Members can select their benefits immediately when they earn status.

Package of four regional upgrade certificates.

An MQD accelerator of $500 MQDs in 2024 and $1,000 MQDs in 2025 to help towards achieving/maintaining status.

20,000 bonus miles in 2024 (30,000 in 2025) to be added to the member’s account or donated to a SkyWish charity of choice.

$250 Delta travel voucher in 2024 ($300 in 2025).

Gift of Silver Medallion status to a friend (up to two times).

A statement credit of $200 in 2024 ($400 in 2025) to the member’s Delta co-branded American Express credit card.

A deposit of Starbucks Reward stars: 4,000 in 2024 (6,000 in 2025).

A Delta Vacations (flight and hotel) credit of $400.

A $250 credit toward Delta’s use of sustainable fuel.

Wheels Up flight credit of $1,500 in 2025 (not available in 2024).

Executive membership to Delta Sky Clubs (unlimited access for self and two guests) — This option counts as three choices and is available in 2024. In 2025, a selection of an executive membership (will count as three choices) or an individual membership (will count as two choices). The individual membership allows unlimited access for the member while guests pay a fee.

Package of as many as eight upgrade certificates (eight regional, four global, or two global and four regional).

An MQD accelerator of $1,000 MQDs in 2024 and $2,000 MQDs in 2025 to help towards achieving/maintaining status.

25,000 bonus miles in 2024 (35,000 in 2025) to be added to the member’s account or donated to a SkyWish charity of choice.

$250 Delta travel voucher in 2024 ($350 in 2025).

Gift of Gold Medallion status to a friend (up to two times).

A statement credit of $500 in 2024 ($700 in 2025) to the member’s Delta co-branded American Express credit card.

A Delta Vacations (flight and hotel) credit of $500.

Wheels Up flight credit of $2,000 in 2025 (not available in 2024).

See full details about choice benefits.

How is SkyMiles Medallion status earned?

To become a Delta Medallion elite, you'll need to earn Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQDs). Previously, Delta used a combination of MQDs, Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) and Medallion Qualifying Segments (MQSs) to calculate status but as of 2024, MQDs are the sole metric used by Delta for earning elite status.

Note: Because of this change, Delta is allowing a one-time conversion of any MQMs earned in 2023 towards 2024 status, or a Medallion status extension for those elites who earned a high number of MQMs. Those who have a rollover balance of 100,000 MQMs or more can choose to extend their 2024 elite status by one year for each 100,000 rollover MQMs. Members have until Dec. 31, 2024 to decide what they want to do.

To earn elite status with Delta, you will need to earn the following amount of MQDs:

You can earn MQDs in a variety of ways, including:

1 MQD per $1 spent on Delta-marketed flights operated by Delta or one of its airline partners. This includes the fare and airline fees, but not taxes, fees (including government fees), basic economy and similar fares, and insurance purchases.

1 MQD per $10 spent when using the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card or the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card .

1 MQD per $20 spent when using the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card or the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card .

1 MQD per $1 spent when booking travel through Delta Vacations. The calculation excludes taxes, fees (including government fees), basic economy and similar fares, tips, room service, other booking charges, and insurance purchases.

Medallion status for a given year is earned based on activity in the previous calendar year. Your status is generally good until Jan. 31 of the following year. For example, your Medallion status for 2025 is based on your activity in 2024 and will last until Jan. 31, 2026.

Status matching

You may be able to match your Delta status to another airline loyalty program. You must have current elite status with a qualifying airline, and you cannot have used the match in the previous three years. Once you’re accepted in the match program, you get complimentary Medallion status for three months. To keep it for the rest of the year, you need to earn it during those three months:

Silver: $1,250 MQDs.

Gold: $2,500 MQDs.

Platinum: $3,750 MQDs.

Delta is part of the international SkyTeam alliance, which allows you to earn and use SkyMiles on flights aboard carriers other than Delta.

Skyteam member airlines include:

Aerolineas Argentinas.

AeroMexico.

Air Europa.

Air France.

China Airlines.

China Eastern.

Czech Airlines.

Delta Air Lines.

Garuda Indonesia.

ITA Airways.

Kenya AIrways.

Korean Air.

MEA (Middle East Airlines).

Vietnam Airlines.

Virgin Atlantic.

Xiamen Air.

Delta also had partnerships with these non-SkyTeam airlines:

China Southern.

Hawaiian Airlines.

» Learn more: The complete guide to Delta partners: earning, redeeming, elite perks

Delta's credit cards are issued by American Express. All of the cards offer different spending rewards.

Personal Delta cards

Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card

on American Express' website

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

• 2 miles per $1 on purchases made directly with Delta and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.

• 1 mile per $1 on all other eligible purchases.

Terms apply.

Annual fee: $0 .

• 2 miles per $1 on purchases made directly with Delta and at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.).

Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $150 .

• 3 miles per $1 on eligible purchases made directly with Delta and on hotel purchases.

• 2 miles per $1 at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.).

Annual fee: $350 .

• 3 miles per $1 on eligible purchases made directly with Delta.

• 1 mile per $1 on other eligible purchases.

Annual fee: $650 .

• No foreign transaction fees.

• First checked bag free.

• Priority boarding.

• Companion certificate (main cabin).

• Airport lounge access.

• Companion certificate (first class, Delta Comfort+ or main cabin).

• Credit for application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club. To earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more the previous year. To earn unlimited visits in 2025, you’ll need to spend this amount between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24.

Business Delta cards

Delta offers three business cards:

Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card

$0 intro for the first year, then $150 .

• 2 miles per $1 on purchases made directly with Delta and at restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.).

• 2 miles per $1 on purchases made with U.S. shipping providers and U.S. advertising providers in select media on up to $50,000 of purchases per category, per year.

• 3 miles per $1 on purchases made directly with Delta and on hotels.

• 1.5 miles per $1 on purchases U.S. shipping purchases and every single purchase of $5,000 or more up to $100,000 per year.

• 1.5 miles per $1 on eligible transit, U.S. shipping and U.S. office supply store purchases.

• 1.5 miles per $1 on all purchases after spending $150,000 in a calendar year.

Earn 55,000 Bonus Miles after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

Earn 65,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

Earn 75,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

» Learn more: Which Delta Air Lines card should you get?

The actual experience of flying with Delta is among the best you’ll find across any U.S. airline. With free movies, seatback screens and free in-flight messaging, your time in the air makes for one of the best in-flight experiences you could have. And don’t forget those Biscoff cookies.

As far as the seats go, everyone except people with basic economy tickets will get to pick their seat. Physical basic economy seats aren’t actually different from standard economy seats, but because basic economy flyers don't get to pick, they'll likely end up with a middle seat. If you are in one of the pricier airfares that lets you pick your seat, choose wisely with this Delta seat selection guide .

The Delta fare classes are (in order from swankiest to stingiest) are:

Premium Select.

First Class.

Delta Comfort.

Main Cabin.

Basic Economy.

And some lucky folk might get one of those better seats without even paying extra for it. Here’s the ultimate guide to getting on Delta’s upgrade list .

That’s the in-cabin experience, but what about other aspects of flying Delta, like checking bags and changing your flight? Here’s what you need to know:

Delta bag fees

Delta does not charge for carry-on bags, even for basic economy fares. For checked bags, expect to pay bag fees with most Delta fares ($35 for your first bag on Main Cabin and Comfort+ fares throughout North America and the Caribbean), unless you’ve got something like a Delta card that lets you bring checked bags.

If you need to change or cancel a Delta flight

If you need to cancel a Delta flight , terms vary by the type of airfare you bought:

Some Delta fares are refundable , though not all. Whether Delta gives you a refund depends on how quickly after booking you change your mind, whether you paid in cash versus points and the type of fare you booked.

If Delta cancels your flight (or just delays it)

If the canceled flight was Delta’s choice — not yours — then you have more options.

Delta offers full refunds on flights it cancels , regardless of fare class, if you choose to not take another flight. Opt in to text, email or app alerts from Delta for the quickest notifications related to your flight status.

If your flight is canceled, you can rebook yourself on Delta’s website or app by choosing an alternate flight or sometimes another departure or arrival airport other than your original one.

If your Delta flight is delayed , you also don’t necessarily need to take the same one you booked. Flyers are eligible to rebook tickets to their final destination in the event of a flight cancellation or a schedule change of more than 30 minutes. Delta’s flight delay compensation policy means you might get additional travel assistance depending on the circumstances. Delta sometimes reimburses for expenses like extra hotel room nights, but it depends on your situation. If you do have additional expenses, save those receipts.

We've covered all the basic details of the Delta SkyMiles program, including how to use Delta SkyMiles for maximum value. But if you still aren't sure whether a frequent flyer program is worth the effort, see our beginner's guide to frequent flyer programs .

You can technically transfer your Delta SkyMiles to another person’s account, but it’s almost always a bad idea. Delta charges 1 cent per mile and $30 per transfer, which wipes out the value of the miles.

Delta SkyMiles do not expire, but they might lose value over time.

Delta SkyMiles cost 3.5 cents each when purchased directly, far more than their typical value . That is to say: Buying Delta miles is generally not a good move.

Delta SkyMiles cost 3.5 cents each when purchased directly, far more than their

typical value

. That is to say: Buying Delta miles is generally not a good move.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

skymiles travel marketplace

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Sweepstakes

Score 1,000 Delta SkyMiles When You Book a Hilton Stay For a Limited Time

The promotion is running until May 6.

skymiles travel marketplace

Courtesy of Delta

Delta has teamed up with Hilton Honors to offer 1,000 miles on stays at thousands of hotels worldwide.

“Delta SkyMiles members, enjoy a limited-time offer on Hilton stays,” the airline shared about the new promotion on its website . 

First, travelers must join both Hilton and Delta ’s programs if they haven’t already and register for the latest promotion by Monday, May 6. Then, Hilton Honors members will need to link their Delta SkyMiles number under the “Preferred Travel Partners” section of their profile.

Delta will award 1,000 SkyMiles for an eligible Hilton reservation booked directly with cash through Hilton’s website or the Hilton Honors app and completed by July 7, 2024. A maximum of three hotel reservations can be booked during the travel window, which gives the potential to earn a total of 3,000 SkyMiles through this promotion.

It could take up to six to eight weeks after the stay is over before the miles are deposited, but they won’t count toward earning elite status with Delta, according to the promotion. 

This isn’t the first time Delta has partnered with other travel and lifestyle loyalty programs, giving members plenty of opportunities to earn miles even if they’re not flying. Travelers can also register to earn 1 mile per dollar spent at Starbucks and Airbnb thanks to these exclusive partnerships. Finally, members can earn SkyMiles from spending on Delta co-branded credit cards or flying SkyTeam partner airlines such as Aeromexico or Virgin Atlantic. 

Delta SkyMiles can then be redeemed for free flights roughly at 1.2 cents apiece, and the airline will often run flash sales where members can redeem miles for flight deals. It’s also possible to redeem SkyMiles for Delta Vacations packages for at least 15 percent more value, which bundle flights, hotels, and car rentals at a discounted rate.

I started an Etsy candle store last year. The passive income helped me travel the world.

  • Francisco Rivera started an Etsy store while working a remote job and living in a studio in Orlando.
  • He quit his job after one year when the money from the store was enough to live off.
  • Rivera said the passive income from his store means he can travel and still run his business.

Insider Today

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with 26-year-old Francisco Rivera, an Etsy seller from Orlando. It has been edited for length and clarity. Business Insider has verified his profit and revenue.

I manage an Etsy store that made $403,499 last year after Etsy's fees and postage costs. I keep 30% to 50% of the retail price and the rest goes to a print-on-demand provider to produce and ship the product.

Starting the store has meant I could be an "intermittent nomad ." I travel while running my business, but I'm not away for superlong periods of time, and I like having a home base to return to.

Before starting Etsy, I worked online and lived in Orlando with my parents

In 2020, I had to move from Texas back home with my parents in Orlando . I was pretty desperate for work, and though I'd never pictured myself working with kids, I started working as a teacher for an online-education platform called Outschool, teaching logic and critical-thinking skills to kids online using the game "Minecraft."

I ended up loving it. I liked being in charge of making a curriculum, but I didn't like that my schedule was locked into specific teaching hours. I wanted more flexibility.

I started looking for potential side hustles

I started looking into other options, such as copywriting. Last year, I came across some TikToks from people selling via print-on-demand platforms. I felt that was the best route.

In YouTube videos, sellers said T-shirts and mugs were quite saturated markets. It seemed the best approach was to choose one niche that could be applied to multiple products or one product that could be tailored to different niches and trends.

I scoured Printify, a print-on-demand platform, and found they were offering candles.

I did some research into how well candles were selling on Etsy — it seemed like a good space. They make good gifts, and there was a market for candles with funny messages where I could replace the text to apply to different niches. I saw shops that were successful in doing that over a short period of time.

I'd research trending words or topics and come up with a joke or a cuss related to that trend for the candles.

Related stories

I'd considered handling my own inventory, but using a print-on-demand platform didn't require me to spend money up front or stay in one location. It seemed like a no-brainer.

I used Canva to experiment with different designs for the text printed on the candles and uploaded them onto Etsy. I landed on the most popular design and changed the text with different funny messages.

It meant each new product didn't need a new design — it was very efficient.

The manufacturing partner that Printify works with offers 10 different scents. Customers can choose which scent they want and pair it with a phrase. I also have an option for buyers to customize the message.

The first couple of months were slow

It takes a while to get people to trust you and to land reviews. I put out two or three products a day. I launched the shop in January 2023, and by March, my sales were picking up.

But it wasn't a viable full-time income until December when sales went through the roof because of Christmas. I made $136,700 in revenue between November and December.

That's when I realized my Etsy store could replace my income from teaching. I decided to quit in December — I probably could have before, but I wanted to make sure my store was viable.

Quitting my job was scary, but I knew that even if this particular shop failed, I could set up another store on Etsy.

At most, I spend 4 hours a day on my store — and usually a lot less

I spend between 20 and 30 minutes a day on custom orders. I can spend as much time as I want uploading candles. Once or twice a week, I spend around three or four hours a day working on that. The rest is passive income.

Sometimes I go into maintenance mode and just live life. I've spent the past two weeks in Bali and traveled to Belgium, France, New York, and the Caribbean in the past few months.

Being able to afford my own place in Orlando and travel when I want is a huge win.

Correction: April 11, 2024 — A previous version of this story misstated the percentage of profits Rivera gives to his print-on-demand provider. He retains 30% to 50% of the profits; the rest goes to the printer. The article also misstated his living situation. He did not move out of his parents' home after he launched his store.

Watch: Artsy CMO, Everette Taylor, tells Insider that the online art marketplace is more inclusive, and lucrative

skymiles travel marketplace

  • Main content

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

  • Travel Planning Center
  • Ticket Changes & Refunds
  • Airline Partners
  • Check-in & Security
  • Delta Sky Club®
  • Airport Maps & Locations
  • Flight Deals
  • Flight Schedules
  • Destinations
  • Onboard Experience
  • Delta Cruises
  • Delta Vacations
  • Delta Car Rentals
  • Delta Stays
  • In-Flight Wi-Fi
  • Delta Trip Protection
  • How to Earn Miles
  • How to Use Miles
  • Buy or Transfer Miles
  • Travel with Miles
  • SkyMiles Partners & Offers
  • SkyMiles Award Deals
  • SkyMiles Credit Cards
  • SkyMiles Airline Partners
  • SkyMiles Program Overview​
  • How to Get Medallion Status​
  • Benefits at Each Tier
  • News & Updates
  • Help Center
  • Travel Planning FAQs
  • Certificates & eCredits
  • Accessible Travel Services
  • Child & Infant Travel
  • Special Circumstances
  • SkyMiles Help

Getting More From Your Miles Is Easier

*As compared to mileage value with Delta Vacations prior to July 10, 2023.  

miles are worth at least 15% more

How To Use Your Miles with Delta Vacations

Use your miles to pay for some or all of your vacation, including flights, hotels, rides, activities and more!

You can use your miles for yourself or your friends and family. Plus, with Delta Vacations, you will still earn miles as you redeem them!

You’ll get at least 15% more* for your miles to every destination — over 300 destinations across the globe — at any time.

No minimum or maximum amount of miles, no blackout dates, and you don’t need a promo code.

*As compared to mileage value with Delta Vacations prior to July 10, 2023.

Do you need help? Let our vacation experts guide you by calling 1-800-800-1504 . Not a SkyMiles® Member? Join , opens in a new window today. 

More Reasons to Go Beyond the Flight

all in one logo

Your elevated vacation experience starts here. Choose from flights, hotels, rides and activities all over the world, all in one place.

care logo

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU

As trusted experts, we’ll help with recommendations, booking and support — whenever and wherever you need it.

care logo

PREFERRED BY SKYMILES® MEMBERS

We make it easier to get more from your miles while also earning bonus miles and earning toward Medallion® Status.

care logo

TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE

Things come up, and we’ve got you covered, from flexible changes and cancellations to travel protection plans .

Getting More From Your Miles Terms and Conditions

  • Purchase any Delta Vacations vacation package from any Delta Vacations origin in the U.S. or to any Delta Vacations destination.
  • New mileage redemption value of at least 15% is effective July 10, 2023, as compared to the 2022 mileage value with Delta Vacations.
  • New mileage redemption value is applicable to direct customers only who book via delta.com/vacations or by calling our Customer Engagement Center at 1-800-800-1504. Use up to 999,999 miles on vacation packages to any Delta Vacations destination when you book online. To use more than 999,999 miles, call our Customer Engagement Center at 1-800-800-1504.
  • New mileage redemption value is not retroactive and is not available on prior reservations. New mileage redemption value is only applicable to new bookings made on or after July 10, 2023.
  • Must be purchased through Delta Vacations.
  • Programs and availability may vary. Delta Vacations air reservations may be made up to 331 days in advance of flight departure.
  • Delta Vacations must issue all airline tickets.
  • Delta Vacations is the final authority on the interpretation of these rules.
  • If you cancel your reservation, miles will not be redeposited into your SkyMiles account. The SkyMiles account holder will receive a Delta Vacations voucher for the value of the miles at the time of redemption minus any cancel penalties.
  • All SkyMiles Program rules apply. To review the rules, please visit  delta.com/memberguide . To review how SkyMiles members earn Medallion® Qualification Dollars (MQDs) on Delta Vacations packages starting January 1, 2024, please visit  delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges . To review rules for Delta Vacations miles redemption, please visit  delta.com/us/en/delta-vacations/skymiles-member-experience/use-miles . Bonus miles do not count toward Medallion Status or Million Miler™ Status. Offers void where prohibited by law. Offers subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply.
  • Investor Relations
  • Business Travel
  • Travel Agents
  • Comment/Complaint
  • Browser Compatibility
  • Accessibility
  • Booking Information
  • Customer Commitment
  • Tarmac Delay Plan
  • Sustainability
  • Contract of Carriage
  • Cookies, Privacy & Security
  • Human Trafficking Statement (PDF)
  • Marketplace
  • Marketplace Morning Report
  • Marketplace Tech
  • Make Me Smart
  • This is Uncomfortable
  • The Uncertain Hour
  • How We Survive
  • Financially Inclined
  • Million Bazillion
  • Marketplace Minute®
  • Corner Office from Marketplace

Marketplace Logo

  • Latest Stories
  • Collections
  • Smart Speaker Skills
  • Corrections
  • Ethics Policy
  • Submissions
  • Individuals
  • Corporate Sponsorship
  • Foundations

skymiles travel marketplace

Brands in Space: What’s behind the rush to advertise in the final frontier?

Share now on:.

  • https://www.marketplace.org/2024/04/10/brands-in-space-whats-behind-the-rush-to-advertise-in-the-final-frontier/ COPY THE LINK

skymiles travel marketplace

Get the Podcast

skymiles travel marketplace

  • Amazon Music

A lot has changed in the 50 years between NASA’s last Apollo mission and the landing of Intuitive Machines’ lunar lander this February. For one thing, the Apollo mission didn’t brandish the Columbia Sportswear logo.

The unlikely partnership between Intuitive Machines and the outdoor apparel company created the first U.S.-built commercial spacecraft to touch down on the moon, highlighting an explosion of private sector space endeavors. But, why Columbia Sportswear?

As NASA waits to decommission the International Space Station in 2030, the government agency is helping private aerospace companies like Intuitive Machines, Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Jeff Bezo’s Blue Origin “advance capabilities for science, exploration, or commercial development of the Moon,” according to NASA’s website .

In addition to a possible lunar economy, the privatization of the space industry is creating a competitive market for space tourism. Take, for example, Blue Origin’s spaceflight booking page , or the British company Virgin Galactic selling 800 space tourism tickets, with prices as steep as $450,000 each, in June 2023. The company performed its first space tourism flight carrying private passengers the next month. As with all commercial travel comes the opportunity of sponsored ads and amenities from other companies.

Brands using space as a backdrop to market their products that have seemingly nothing to do with it isn’t anything new — see KitKat and Estée Lauder chucking their merchandise into the expanse for some eye-catching images. And with the surge of private companies developing technologies to reach space, these partnership opportunities may multiply. But, just how effective is this marketing strategy?

In Columbia’s case, part of Intuitive Machines’ lunar lander was layered with patented material called Omni-Heat, which can be found in their bulkier coats, and was said to be “protecting [the lunar lander] from extreme temperatures in space,” according to the company’s promotional web campaign.

“They make black puffer coats, like all of their competitors,” said Ian Parkman, associate professor of marketing at the University of Portland.

Parkman sees this marketing strategy as leaning into hyperbole to differentiate Columbia’s coats from the countless other options consumers are given by, say, The North Face, Patagonia and other apparel brands.

“It just becomes increasingly difficult for those firms to find any point of differentiation,” Parkman said. “No one is meant to really think that the Columbia material is really protecting the spacecraft… But if it works in this extreme environment, it’s just good enough for me walking around on a rainy Saturday in Portland, Oregon.”

Just seven days after landing on the moon, Intuitive Machines announced its lunar lander mission ended, citing “harsh temperatures of the lunar night” as the reason. All is not lost, though.

Parkman said that Columbia Sportswear is now the apparel brand that can be associated with space, which can be seen as innovative and exciting. But, is space really exciting to consumers anymore?

“I don’t know if young people care as much about space as much as maybe even those of us a few years older,” Parkman said. “I’m looking at the webpage right now, you know, they’re talking about Apollo in 1972. You might as well be talking about the colonial era.”

Parkman said the ad’s messaging is more “salient” to an older target audience, who may also be more likely to splurge on products like the Omni-Heat hooded jacket that retails for $180.

“Gen Z might be interested in other messaging from Columbia,” he said.

Anna Kim is an assistant professor at the University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism who specializes in advertising and digital storytelling. She said the marketing value of Columbia’s partnership with Intuitive Machines also lies in the aspirations of consumers.

“As consumers, we care what’s in there for me? How that makes me feel, and then how [products] can help me to express who I am, who I want to be,” Kim said. “Some people dreamed of traveling to the moon and space.”

And now that possibility is closer to consumers than ever before.

NASA is assisting private companies in building commercial space stations like Voyager Space’s Starlab — a low-Earth orbital designed for astronauts to conduct scientific research in place of the ISS after its shutdown — which will be launched in 2028 at the earliest. Hilton partnered with Voyager Space to design the interior of the space station in hopes to make a more comfortable zero gravity environment.

“We’re looking at this through the lens of space tourism,” Hilton Senior Vice President of Global Design Larry Traxler said. “How do we elevate the stay?”

This isn’t the first time Hilton and Voyager Space partnered for a space stunt. In late 2019, the global hospitality company Nanoracks — most of which was acquired by Voyager Space the following year — and Zero G Kitchen, a food development company creating products for space, teamed up to bake a batch of the famous Doubletree cookies in the ISS. 

According to internal data from Hilton, the experiment garnered a 422% increase in brand conversation during the initial launch week back in November 2019, along with other metrics meant to trace the collaboration’s ROI — which, Kim said, is almost impossible to do with space stunt digital ad campaigns like Columbia Sportswear’s.

“It’s kind of a huge investment, but it’s not really giving you any ROI,” Kim said. “That’s risky.”

Despite the risk and unclear rewards of space partnerships, Traxler said opportunities like Starlab can differentiate Hilton from competitors, marketing Hilton as a leading, innovative brand in the hospitality industry. He added that he receives emails regularly from other companies asking about Hilton’s experience working in the space sector.

“You know, it’s pretty exciting to think about the new Starlab orbiting the Earth at 17,000 miles per hour with the Hilton logo on it,” Traxler said.

In 2021, the Space Foundation reported that the global space economy hit $469 billion. Traxler said he has no concerns about demand for space tourism once companies are equipped to send consumers to space regularly, and that pre-launch programs preparing people for space travel, as well as post-launch medical facilities, are being developed for the future as well.

Although space marketing may seem like one big leap for ad-kind, companies promoting products in the final frontier may not only be looking to differentiate their brand, but also to establish a stake in the ever-growing space industry.

Stories You Might Like

skymiles travel marketplace

NASA partners with commercial companies to return to the moon

skymiles travel marketplace

A new moon race is underway

skymiles travel marketplace

How the “new guys” of NASA’s Group 8 opened up space travel to the rest of us

skymiles travel marketplace

How the moon landing helped launch Silicon Valley

skymiles travel marketplace

Private enterprise will help NASA return to the moon

skymiles travel marketplace

SpaceX to launch Dragon Capsule for milestone test

There’s a lot happening in the world.  Through it all, Marketplace is here for you.  

You rely on Marketplace to break down the world’s events and tell you how it affects you in a fact-based, approachable way. We rely on your financial support to keep making that possible.  

Your donation today powers the independent journalism that you rely on . For just $5/month, you can help sustain Marketplace so we can keep reporting on the things that matter to you.  

Also Included in

  • Advertising

Latest Episodes From Our Shows

skymiles travel marketplace

The higher price of oil is helping tank the price of natural gas

If the Federal Reserve waits to cut interest rates, will the European Central Bank follow suit?

If the Federal Reserve waits to cut interest rates, will the European Central Bank follow suit?

Will egg prices go up amid more bird flu outbreaks? 

Will egg prices go up amid more bird flu outbreaks? 

Brands in Space: What's behind the rush to advertise in the final frontier?

Brands in Space: What's behind the rush to advertise in the final frontier?

skymiles travel marketplace

IMAGES

  1. Delta SkyMiles named a Best Travel Rewards program by U.S. News for

    skymiles travel marketplace

  2. How to Use Delta's SkyMiles Shopping Portal [Earn Miles]

    skymiles travel marketplace

  3. Sell Skymiles 2020: Sell My Frequent Flyer Miles

    skymiles travel marketplace

  4. The New Delta SkyMiles Select

    skymiles travel marketplace

  5. How to Use Delta Skymiles for Cheap Flights to Europe

    skymiles travel marketplace

  6. The Ultimate Guide to Delta SkyMiles

    skymiles travel marketplace

COMMENTS

  1. Shop With Miles

    With SkyMiles, your miles have a world of potential beyond flights. They can transform into opportunities to enrich your travel experiences, support causes you believe in through donations and much more. Shop at SkyMiles Experiences. Donate Miles to Charity (Delta SkyWish) Redeem Miles for Magazines.

  2. Delta SkyMiles Shopping: Shop Online & Earn Miles

    SkyMiles named a Best Travel Rewards Program by U.S. News & World Report for 2023-2024 ...

  3. Log In

    SkyMiles named a Best Travel Rewards Program by U.S. News & World Report for 2023-2024

  4. How it Works

    Learn more about Delta SkyMiles Shopping and how you can find coupon codes, get great deals, & earn miles at 1,000+ popular stores. Learn more about Delta SkyMiles Shopping and how you can find coupon codes, get great deals, & earn miles at 1,000+ popular stores. ... SkyMiles named a Best Travel Rewards Program by U.S. News & World Report for ...

  5. How to Use Delta's SkyMiles Shopping Portal [Earn Miles]

    Image Credit: SkyMiles Shopping. Let's say you are interested in shopping at Kohl's. At the time of writing, it was possible to earn 2 extra Delta SkyMiles per dollar spent on purchases at kohls.com through the portal. To earn bonus miles, you need to click "Shop This Offer," which will redirect you to kohls.com.

  6. The ultimate guide to the Delta SkyMiles shopping portal

    On Delta's shopping portal, bonus earn rates are from 0.5x up to 6x miles. Delta miles are some of the least-valuable major airline miles, and Delta SkyMiles Shopping seems to have consistently lower rates than the other airline portals. So unless you need to top up your account before a redemption, you may want to check another airline's ...

  7. Delta Expands Mileage Redemption Options with New 'SkyMiles Marketplace'

    "The SkyMiles Marketplace provides all SkyMiles members with new travel-related redemption opportunities and brand-name retail merchandise and helps deliver on Delta's commitment to lead the ...

  8. Delta's SkyMiles Marketplace: Not Worth It

    The Delta SkyMiles Marketplace is a website where you can redeem your Delta SkyMiles. Along with using miles for travel, standard SkyMiles members have the option of using miles to purchase Delta ...

  9. Everything you need to know about the Delta SkyMiles loyalty program

    The number of redeemable miles earned depends on the total package price. You can earn up to 5,000 bonus miles per person on each Delta Vacation package at the following rates: $10,000+ spent with ...

  10. Delta SkyMiles: Complete guide to earning, redeeming and elite status

    A $200 Delta flight credit after you spend $10,000 in eligible purchases on your card in a calendar year; a new $100 Delta Stays credit. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card. $350 (see rates and fees) Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months. $600.

  11. How to redeem Delta SkyMiles for maximum value

    Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card: Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months. The card has a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 (see rates and fees ). Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card: Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in ...

  12. Delta SkyMiles: What to Know

    You earn SkyMiles only on the base fare and fees imposed by the airline. You don't earn any rewards on taxes or government-imposed fees that are rolled into the cost of your ticket. So if you are ...

  13. Delta Expands Mileage Redemption Options with new 'SkyMiles Marketplace

    Delta Air Lines has launched an online marketplace to provide all SkyMiles members with a new way to redeem miles for hotel rooms, car rentals and merchandise.

  14. How to Find & Book the Best Delta SkyMiles Deals

    Unlike some other airlines, Delta's lowest-priced SkyMiles award tickets are almost always in Delta basic economy, meaning you can't pick your seat or change or cancel your flight for free.If you want to cancel or change your ticket, you can expect to fork over 9,900 SkyMiles for domestic trips or to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean - and 19,900 for long-haul international travel - to get ...

  15. Score 1,000 Delta SkyMiles When You Book a Hilton Stay For a ...

    Delta will award 1,000 SkyMiles for an eligible Hilton reservation booked directly with cash through Hilton's website or the Hilton Honors app and completed by July 7, 2024.

  16. My Etsy Store Earns Me Enough to Travel the World

    Being able to afford my own place in Orlando and travel when I want is a huge win. Correction: April 11, 2024 — A previous version of this story misstated the percentage of profits Rivera gives ...

  17. DerbySoft Acquires Leading Travel Trade Marketplace, PKFARE

    DerbySoft Acquires Leading Travel Trade Marketplace, PKFARE. DerbySoft. 11 April 2024.

  18. MOSCOW CITY CENTRE TOUR. PART 1 /// RUSSIA TRAVEL VIDEO ...

    There are lots to see in the city centre of Moscow, so we decided to start our series of Russia travel videos by showing you around the most historical part ...

  19. Moscow City Guide, Travel Guide

    Check out Moscow if you haven't. Huge buildings, huge spaces, best looking girls and a lot of stuff to see, places to go.

  20. [4K] Walking Streets Moscow. Moscow-City

    Walking tour around Moscow-City.Thanks for watching!MY GEAR THAT I USEMinimalist Handheld SetupiPhone 11 128GB https://amzn.to/3zfqbboMic for Street https://...

  21. 21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

    1: Off-kilter genius at Delicatessen: Brain pâté with kefir butter and young radishes served mezze-style, and the caviar and tartare pizza. Head for Food City. You might think that calling Food City (Фуд Сити), an agriculture depot on the outskirts of Moscow, a "city" would be some kind of hyperbole. It is not.

  22. How to book Qatar Airways Qsuites with points and miles

    Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou points per dollar spent on hotel, car rentals and attractions (excluding air travel) booked through the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024.

  23. How To Use Your Miles with Delta Vacations

    Use up to 999,999 miles on vacation packages to any Delta Vacations destination when you book online. To use more than 999,999 miles, call our Customer Engagement Center at 1-800-800-1504. New mileage redemption value is not retroactive and is not available on prior reservations. New mileage redemption value is only applicable to new bookings ...

  24. Why are big brands so eager to advertise in space?

    There's a lot happening in the world. Through it all, Marketplace is here for you. You rely on Marketplace to break down the world's events and tell you how it affects you in a fact-based ...