TRAVEL MAXIMIZERPersonal planning tool

The dates move.
The points
go further.

A place to compare the options
before you choose a flight.

One airline has a better outbound. Another has a better return. Moving a day changes the picture again. Travel Maximizer brings those comparisons into a view you can work through.

How it works Ask Ian
Project introduction only. No live fares or family trip details.

A few days can change the picture.

ILLUSTRATIVE POINTS COMPARISON

Sample round tripTotal points
Monday out · Monday backSame airline both ways
48,000
Tuesday out · Monday backTwo one-way awards
36,000
Tuesday out · Tuesday backSame airline both ways
42,000
Invented examples to explain the comparison. These are not available fares, quotes, or booking options.
A SEARCH YOU CAN THINK THROUGH

Start with the trip.
Compare the tradeoffs.

The personal tool compares outbound and return options across dates, with filters for airlines and points programs. A date matrix makes it easier to see where a different combination might help.

Mix the one-ways

Compare different outbound and return options alongside a round-trip quote.

Keep the constraints visible

The cheapest points total is only part of the decision. Connections and travel days matter, too.

Check before booking

Stored search observations can change. Confirm availability, seats, taxes, and fees with the airline before transferring points or buying.

HOW IT STARTED

I wanted to stop rebuilding
the same flight comparison.

I built Travel Maximizer for my own travel planning. This page explains the project using sample information. It doesn't connect to an airline account, search live inventory, book tickets, or expose my family's travel plans.

Talk travel planning