Gift cards are not typically considered a type of travel reward, as they can be used for a wide variety of purchases, not just travel-related expenses.

Redeeming travel rewards can provide a variety of benefits, including saving money on travel expenses, earning additional rewards points, and upgrading to a higher class of service.

When choosing a travel rewards program, it is important to consider the types of rewards offered, the ease of earning and redeeming rewards, and the annual fee (if any).

The best way to maximize the value of your travel rewards is to use them for a combination of flights, hotels, car rentals, activities, and gift cards/merchandise, depending on your individual needs and preferences.

Using your rewards for peak season travel is generally not a good strategy, as it can be difficult to find availability and the cost of flights and hotels is typically higher.

Travel rewards credit cards typically offer more rewards and benefits than travel rewards debit cards, such as higher rewards rates, sign-up bonuses, and access to exclusive travel experiences.

Dining at certain restaurants is not typically a common way to earn travel rewards, although some credit cards and loyalty programs may offer rewards for dining out.

There are a variety of ways to keep track of your travel rewards, including using a travel rewards app, creating a spreadsheet, or keeping track of your rewards in a notebook. The best method for you will depend on your individual preferences.

Booking flights with long layovers is generally not a good way to use travel rewards, as it can be inconvenient and time-consuming.

There are a variety of ways to use travel rewards for hotels, including booking hotels through a travel rewards portal, booking hotels directly with the hotel chain, and booking hotels through a third-party website. The best method for you will depend on your individual preferences and the specific rewards program you are using.

Renting a car during peak season is generally not a good way to use travel rewards, as the cost of car rentals is typically higher during this time.

There are a variety of ways to use travel rewards for activities, including booking activities through a travel rewards portal, booking activities directly with the activity provider, and booking activities through a third-party website. The best method for you will depend on your individual preferences and the specific rewards program you are using.

All of the options listed are good ways to use travel rewards for gift cards and merchandise.

There are a variety of ways to learn more about travel rewards, including reading travel blogs and websites, talking to friends and family who are experienced travelers, and signing up for travel rewards newsletters.