Lifestyle

10 Flight Hacks Every Traveler Should Know (And How an AirAsia Credit Card powered by RCBC Can Help)

Lifestyle
May 29, 2025
3 min. read


Travel isn't cheap, but that doesn't mean it has to break your bank. Savvy travelers know that flying for less is all about strategy and timing. Whether it's booking at the perfect moment or getting rewarded for your everyday purchases, there's always a way to save and get more.

The AirAsia Credit Card, powered by RCBC, is one of the most helpful travel credit cards you can ever have. With exciting travel perks like AirAsia BIG Points and free travel insurance, you can turn everyday expenses into real travel rewards faster than you think.

Ready to upgrade your travel game? This blog will give you smart, practical flight hacks and show how RCBC Credit Cards can take your adventures even further.

10 Flight Hacks Every Traveler Should Know

With a few smart decisions and the right credit card, like the AirAsia credit card, you can stretch your budget and score better seats. Here are the best flight hacks that can help you earn rewards with every swipe.

  1. Use flexible date search tools

    Flight prices change based on the day you fly and the time of year. So, it's a good idea to compare fares over different dates using search tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner. You'd be surprised how much you can save by flying a day earlier—or later.
  2. Sign up for fare alerts

    Let prices come to you rather than constantly refreshing your browser. Fare alerts from travel apps and airline websites can send alerts when prices drop on your preferred routes. Set notifications based on your destinations or travel dates to catch flash sales or limited-time promos.
  3. Join frequent-flyer programs

    If you haven't signed up for a frequent flyer program yet, you're leaving free flights on the table. Programs like AirAsia MOVE (previously AirAsia BIG) give you points every time you fly—and even more when you use a co-branded credit card like the AirAsia Credit Card. The more you fly and spend, the faster you unlock travel perks like discounted fares and exclusive member-only deals.
  4. Use credit card travel rewards

    Maximize your credit card rewards to save on flights. The AirAsia Platinum Credit Card offers a welcome bonus of 15,000 AirAsia Points, while the AirAsia Classic Credit Card offers 10,000 AirAsia Points. If you book early during a seat sale, you can go to places like Cebu or Indonesia. Best of all, you'll keep earning points with every card use, getting you closer to your next adventure.

    You can earn AirAsia points for as little as P22 spent on your card. Plus, redeeming your points is hassle-free! There's no need to call or email anyone, as your earned points are automatically linked to your AirAsia Rewards account. Simply go to your AirAsia MOVE app to redeem your points and book your next flight.
  5. Opt for stopovers to save money

    Direct flights can be convenient, but stopovers can be significantly cheaper. If time allows, consider multi-city routes to save money and explore another destination. You can stretch your savings even further with the AirAsia Credit Card's rewards system. Plus, stopovers can turn into mini-trips—an extra experience without extra cost!
  6. Check different booking platforms

    Similar to checking dates, don't just settle for the first deal you see; compare fares across various booking websites and the airline's official site. More often than not, booking directly with AirAsia and paying with your AirAsia Credit Card gives you access to exclusive seat sales and promotions you can't find elsewhere. A little research can save you a lot—and earn you AirAsia Points along the way.
  7. Pack light to avoid baggage fees

    Baggage fees have a way of creeping up when you least expect them, so stick to carry-ons when possible. Packing light also helps you leave the airport faster and makes your trip easier.

    And if you have an AirAsia Platinum or AirAsia Classic Credit Card, you may qualify for exclusive baggage discounts during AirAsia promos to save more costs because your membership status will be automatically upgraded to Platinum for one year and you will enjoy Priority Check-in, Priority Boarding, and Xpress Baggage for you and your travel companion!
  8. Take advantage of travel insurance perks

    Travel mishaps like flight delays, cancellations, or lost luggage can happen. Luckily, the AirAsia Credit Card has built-in complimentary travel insurance so that you can have peace of mind on every trip. Many travelers usually pay for one separately, so it's a win if you get this kind of protection just by being a cardholder. Travel smart and skip paying extra for something that you can have for free.
  9. Book directly with airlines for better flexibility

    When plans change, it's easier to modify bookings made directly with the airline. You can use your RCBC AirAsia Credit Card on AirAsia's platform to join exclusive seat sales and use your AirAsia Points. Also, you can arrange your flights directly to use your credits or make real-time changes if needed quickly.
  10. Take advantage of international shopping perks

    Here's a bonus if you're traveling overseas: Many countries offer tax refunds for purchases tourists make. Combine that with the AirAsia Credit Card's All-In Low Forex rates—just 1.85% for Platinum and 2.50% for Classic—and you're shopping smart. Plus, you earn AirAsia Points for every ₱22 you spend. For Airasia Classic card holders, if you reach at least ₱30,000 in total retail spending in a month, you get an extra 300 AirAsia Bonus Points and if you’re an Airasia Platinum cardholder and you spend at least ₱50,000 you can get extra 500 points.

Final Boarding Call: Travel Smarter, Spend Wiser

Flying smarter isn't about finding cheaper tickets—it's about making wise choices and using the right tools. From booking flights at the right time to having lounge access, these simple travel hacks can save you on resources and stress. Having a travel-friendly credit card is also an excellent way to maximize your travel experience.

With the RCBC AirAsia Credit Card, you can enjoy excellent perks like earning BIG Points faster and securing free flights. It even offers free travel insurance and access to airport lounges.

So, why travel the hard way? Apply for your AirAsia Classic Credit Card or AirAsia Platinum Credit Card Powered by RCBC today to start turning your daily purchases into your next dream escape.

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