If you’ve collected points through credit cards, frequent flyer programs, or travel rewards. You’re already on your way to scoring a free or discounted flight! But booking flights with points can sometimes feel like navigating a maze. As I have mentioned before I have just gotten into trying to use points more efficiently. To make the most of your points and find the best deals, follow these tips for Booking Flights with Points:
1. Know the Value of Your Points
Before you start booking, it’s important to understand the value of your points. Different airlines and credit card programs may offer varying rates of redemption. Typically, 1,000 points may get you anywhere between $10 to $15 worth of flight value. Some frequent flyer programs also offer different redemption levels based on the flight’s distance or class (economy vs. business), so always compare options before you book. I use this point calculator to help me out when transferring points.
2. Book in Advance
Booking early is one of the best ways to maximize your points, as many airlines have limited award seat availability—especially during peak travel times. By securing your flights several months in advance, you’ll have more flexibility and a wider range of options for fewer points. That said, if you have a flexible schedule, last-minute deals can sometimes work in your favor. For my upcoming trip to Norway, I booked well in advance to lock in the best rates. However, when flying domestically to visit my mom, I’ve often booked last-minute flights using points. Another key factor is the number of travelers—when booking for my family, I secure seats early to ensure we can sit together, but when traveling solo, last-minute availability is usually easier to find.
LINK: Points to Norway
3. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Flexibility is key when using points to book flights. Prices in points can fluctuate, and sometimes changing your travel dates by just a few days can save you a lot of points. Use tools like Google Flights or airline booking sites that allow you to view a range of dates to help you find the most affordable option.
When booking our Norway trip we wanted to do it this summer but were open to dates. So we had a start day we booked because it was in our ideal points range. Then we are staying a day longer then planned to get our points flights back.
4. Use Airline Alliances
If your frequent flyer program isn’t offering great flight options, check out airline alliances. Programs like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, and Oneworld allow you to use your points on a partner airline. This can open up a lot of opportunities, especially for international travel, where direct flights might not be available through your airline of choice.
5. Take Advantage of Award Seat Sales
Airlines sometimes run sales on award flights, which means you can get great deals by redeeming fewer points than usual. Signing up for newsletters from your airline’s loyalty program or following them on social media can alert you to these limited-time offers. I also follow different point people on Instagram who usually mention when these occur. I took advantage of a Flying Blue promotion for our trip home this summer.
6. Consider Transferring Points/Multiple Transfer Options
Many credit card programs, like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards, allow you to transfer points to a variety of airline partners. This can often result in better flight options or a better redemption rate than booking directly through your credit card’s travel portal. Just be sure to check for transfer bonuses or promotions to maximize your points! I have both Chase aand Capital One points which helps open up more options.
Links:
Chase: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/19q/E2Z56DR2VQ 60,000 points
Venture: https://i.capitalone.com/Jfmq9SXA5
7. Look for Promotions and Bonuses
Some programs offer bonus points for booking with specific partners or using your credit card for purchases that relate to travel. Taking advantage of these promotions can increase your point balance quickly and make flights more affordable. Sometimes, there are bonuses to credit card sign-up welcome offers. Though not always recommended you do earn extra points through travel portals. I have booked a hotel through there. Though I prefer booking flights through the airline. Your Venture card can be used to cover travel when you used your card to book it. This is a 1:1, meaning, 44000 points= $440.00.
Venture: https://i.capitalone.com/Jfmq9SXA5
8. Use Points for Upgrades
If you’re short on points for a full flight redemption, consider using them for upgrades instead. Many airlines allow you to use points to upgrade from economy to business or first class, which can offer a more luxurious travel experience without the hefty price tag. I haven’t ever done this, expect us points to buy a business class flight which you sometimes can find at a great redemption. I do have American status this year so we will see if any upgrades happen.
9. Check for Transfer Fees or Taxes
When booking flights with points, always double-check any fees or taxes that might be charged. Even though the flight is “free” with points, you may still need to pay a small fee or the cost of airport taxes. Keep this in mind when planning your points redemption.
When planning my trip recently, I had to buy miles, which is not recommended usually, but to make our goals happen, something I did. Our business class tickets with buying points and taxes for the four of us cost $4,000 my dad is going to buy premium economy, and he will end up paying close to $4,000 four one person.
Final Thoughts
Booking flights with points is a fantastic way to save money, but a bit of strategy is needed to get the best deals. Understanding the value of your points, booking in advance, staying flexible with your dates, and leveraging airline alliances and promotions can help you secure your dream getaway for a fraction of the cost. It’s incredible to see people travel for nearly free using points, but it’s also important to consider your family’s overall travel goals. Finding ways to save while still creating amazing experiences is just as rewarding. So, gather your points, apply these tips, and start planning your next adventure!
Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Additionally, some products or services mentioned in this post may be related to credit card offers. Please review the terms and conditions of any credit card offer carefully before applying, as credit card terms and eligibility may vary. Always consider your personal financial situation and consult a financial advisor if needed.
