National's emerald club question

[scheps]

Just wondering if current users/members of this program could shed some light.

Is it true that you could just pick any car, any size from the aisle? What if there is no decent car in that aisle for some reason, what happens then? tough luck or you pick from the original class one had booked e.g. mid size.

Would this benefit work even though one booked through netflights for example?

Thanks for your help

 

[drewbles]

If you have elite status with them, and reserve a mid-sized, you get anything from the executive aisle.

If you don't, you get your selection from the aisle you reserved. Before I was an Emerald Club elite, I booked a compact in LAX. I had a choice of one, count 'em, 1 car. Was a Chevy Spark. Tiny buzzbox.

If you want National elite status, sign up for Milepoint Premium; comes with complimentary elite. I've found them to be excellent in general, they're all I use in the USA.

I believe you'll only get your elite benefits if you book direct with National though. Also, use the KLM/Air France Flying Blue rate code; it has good rates and *full* CDP/CDW, which is a huge saving (and 100% necessary/compulsory in places like NV). Do a google search and it pops up easily.

As for selection in the executive aisle, it's typically SUV's, small Jeeps and full sized sedans. There's always plenty of options.

 

[scheps]

thanks for the advice drewbles.

I am after a SUV, so i guess supply that could be seasonal.

I will check out how to get to elite quickly, i never thought about that. I just thought it takes too long, e.g. status match or whatever. but a sign up bonus would be quick. I must check out the prices.

I guess everyone uses the EA at least given its free to join.

Their prices seem similar to netflights if you go the codes/promos except no insurance but CC will cover that.

Thanks again!

 

[drewbles]

The Flyingblue rate has insurance, hence making it extremely attractive (well, it did last time I used it).

Go to milepoint.com, sign up, and get a premium membership. You can get Elite with the premium membership (along with a heap of other benefits). It's the website Randy started after he sold Flyertalk.

Not sure if there's a way to get elite for free, but the other benefits with MP are pretty good for most (including free Platinum Hyatt status).