Airline miles do not only come from flying. For many people, credit card spending, shopping portals, and hotel stays earn more miles than flights do.

A miles-earning credit card used for everyday spending and paid in full each month is the largest ground earner, and its points should transfer to airlines you actually use.

Shopping portals and dining programmes add miles to purchases and meals you were already buying, at no extra cost, if you remember to click through or link your card.

Hotel stays, car rentals, and occasional promotions stack on top, and keeping your account active through these also protects miles from expiring.