Flying to see loved ones, taking dream vacations, or enjoying retirement travel is even better when you can save money along the way. That’s where United Airlines MileagePlus miles come in. United’s loyalty program allows you to earn miles on flights, shopping, dining, and more—and then redeem them for free or discounted trips.
This guide explains how seniors can earn United miles quickly and easily. And if you’d like help joining MileagePlus or checking your balance, call 877-297-0699 for United’s assistance.
MileagePlus is United Airlines’ frequent flyer program. Members earn miles through flights and everyday spending, which can then be redeemed for:
Flights (domestic and international).
Seat upgrades.
Vacation packages.
Hotel stays, car rentals, and even gift cards.
💡 Think of it as a reward system that helps you stretch your travel dollars further.
The most straightforward way to earn miles is by booking and flying with United or one of its Star Alliance partners.
Miles are based on ticket price, not distance.
Higher fare classes and elite MileagePlus members earn more.
Booking directly through United earns more rewards than using third-party websites.
👵 Example: A grandmother from Ohio built enough miles for a free trip to Florida after just two round trips to visit her grandchildren.
Explorer Card: Free checked bag, priority boarding, and 2x miles on United, dining, and hotels.
Club Infinite Card: Unlimited United Club lounge access and 4x miles on United purchases.
Gateway Card: No annual fee, earns miles on everyday purchases.
💳 For seniors, using a United card for groceries, dining, or gas turns daily spending into future travel rewards.
Access hundreds of popular online stores through United’s portal.
Earn bonus miles for every dollar spent.
Senior tip: It’s as easy as clicking through the portal before making a purchase you were already planning.
Link your credit card to MileagePlus Dining.
Earn miles automatically when you eat at participating restaurants.
👴 Real story: A retired couple earned enough miles for a short domestic flight just by enjoying weekly meals at their favorite diner.
Earn miles when booking hotels, car rentals, or cruises through United’s partners.
Senior advantage: Bundling flights with vacation packages can double-dip on rewards.
Create a free MileagePlus account on United.com.
Track balances online or in the United app.
Redeem miles for flights, seat upgrades, or even non-travel items like gift cards.
Call 877-297-0699 if you need help logging in or redeeming rewards.
Save money: Miles can reduce or eliminate ticket costs.
Comfort: Use miles for upgrades to extra legroom or premium seating.
Reward everyday spending: Dining, shopping, and gas purchases all help grow your mileage balance.
👩🏫 Example: A retired teacher used miles she earned from shopping and dining programs to cover a surprise trip to visit her grandkids—without touching her savings.
Earning United Airlines miles isn’t just for frequent business travelers. Seniors can take advantage of flights, shopping, dining, and credit card perks to build miles quickly. Best of all, joining MileagePlus is free, and every mile brings you closer to your next family visit or vacation.
To get started, call 877-297-0699 and ask United how to join or maximize your rewards.