Everyone dreams of taking time off for a relaxing holiday, but what if your business could help foot the bill? As business owners, we often forget that the structure and spending of our business can be leveraged to fund personal experiences, like that long-awaited family trip. In this blog, I’ll show you how to make that happen using the strategies I use myself.
1. Turn Everyday Expenses into Flight Rewards
Let’s start with the basics: points. Using a credit card that earns reward points for business expenses is one of the easiest and most effective ways to accumulate free flights. I personally use the American Express Qantas Business Rewards Card, which gives you 1.25 points per dollar spent. For the few businesses that don’t accept Amex, I keep a Visa card handy.
Across a year, you could be looking at 270,000 Qantas points—just by paying for things you’d already be spending money on. That’s enough for two return flights to New York or Tokyo!
2. Double Down with Airline Reward Partnerships
Choosing the right rewards program is just as important as choosing the right credit card. I’m a big fan of Qantas Frequent Flyer because many Australian companies partner with them, including Red Energy, Woolworths, BP, Hoyts, and Avis, among others. You’re probably already spending money with these businesses, so why not get rewarded for it?
3. A Business That Operates While You’re Away
Flights are one part. But what happens to your income when you step away?
To truly enjoy your holiday, you need a business that can keep operating without you. That means systems, staff, and, most importantly, cash flow planning. The Profit First method I teach helps clients put aside money weekly to pay themselves even when they’re not working. Holidays don’t mean your mortgage or rent stops, and your business expenses won’t either.
4. Make Business Travel Work for You
Here’s a golden nugget: when travel is for business purposes (such as a conference), certain expenses can be tax-deductible. That includes flights, accommodation, and meals.
If your trip mixes business and pleasure, you can still claim the business portion. For example, if you’re away for five days, with two days being business-related, 40% of your flight might be deductible. And the best part? Flights paid with cash or credit (not points) can be claimed, giving you even more reason to save those points for your private holidays.
5. Optional: Using Pay.com.au to Push the Points Further
Platforms like Pay.com.au allow you to use your credit card to pay for things that generally wouldn’t earn points, such as payroll or BAS payments. While this comes at a cost (you’ll pay a merchant fee), it might be worthwhile if cash flow is tight or you’re looking to accelerate your points.
I don’t use it, but it’s a tool worth knowing about.
Strategise Now, Relax Later
The best holidays don’t start at the airport—they begin with thoughtful planning. By setting up the right financial systems, choosing the right rewards programs, and learning how to leverage tax deductions, your business can be the vehicle that drives you (and your family) to your dream destination.
So ask yourself: is your business working for you? Or are you working for it?
If you need assistance setting-up these systems or would like to understand your options, please get in touch. I’ll help you build a business that not only serves your customers but also serves you.
Or are you ready for flights, upgrades and lounge access, all from expenses you’re already making?
Apply for your Amex Qantas Business Rewards Card now via this link and score your sign-up bonus.
This blog post provides general information only and is not intended as personal financial advice. The information presented here does not take into account your individual financial situation, investment objectives, or particular needs. You should consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions based on the information in this post. The author and website owner are not liable for any actions taken based on this general advice.