When I first started earning points for travel, I assumed booking flights with an airline’s own miles was the smartest move. Especially if you’ve been stockpiling Delta SkyMiles—it feels like a win, right? But the more I got into this world, the more I realized those miles aren’t always the best deal. In fact, Delta flights can often be booked for way fewer points through partner programs.

If you’ve ever had that moment where you’re staring at flight prices and wondering if your dream trip is even possible—been there. Especially with a big family, airfare can feel like the biggest barrier. That’s where the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club comes in. It’s one of the most underrated ways to stretch your points further—especially for international trips.

One of the best ways to maximize your points is through positioning flights. These flights can help you get from your local airport to a major hub where you have better access to award flights and deals. Below is my go-to list of major U.S. airports and their primary airline hubs to help you stretch your points and book smarter trips.