Share tips on how to use credit card points for your trip. Find out all the details here!
There are a few things in my life that I regret. At that time I had moved to Tucson and was feeling a crisis and getting bangs. I quit my MBA program when I finished halfway through. AAAAAND does not sign up for credit card reward cards early.
We often heard friends talking about credit card points, but that was something we avoided because we had debts in the past. We kept hearing about free flights and access to the lounge, so about ten years ago we decided to go for it. It was a complete game changer. Since then we have traveled multiple times for free, enjoyed hotel upgrades, lounge access and been rewarded for our daily spending through points.
How to use credit card points for travel
How to use credit card points on your trip: Maximize flight, hotel and lounge access rewards
In this post I will share some tips on how to maximize credit card rewards for travel and share my experiences. American Express Platinum Cardincluding its advantages and disadvantages. I’ll also share my favorite tips for getting the best airfare deals!
How to use credit card points for travel
1. Free hotel stay and upgrade
Many travel credit cards allow you to redeem free Hotel Night points at major chains such as Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt. Some cards also offer automatic elite status, which may lead to room upgrades, late check-outs and free breakfast. By booking the Amex Travel Portal, you can see what rewards you will receive, including late check-outs, early check-in, resort credits, or upgrades to available rooms. He also earns $200 credits annually for his luxury hotel and resort collection.
(Free room service in the upgraded Venetian suite in Las Vegas. Our flight was free too)
Tip: Find a transfer partner A place where points grow even further. For example, American Express Membership Reward Points are transferred at a 1:1 ratio with a 1:1 ratio of Hilton’s honors, but often offer additional value. It’s worth it because you can sometimes get 2 for 1 point!! You can do this directly through the American Express website.
2. Flight booking and airfare scores
One of the best ways to use credit card points is to book a flight. You can redeem points directly through the card’s travel portal or transfer them to your airline partner for even better value.
The best way to find airfare deals:
Using Google Explore: If you have flexibility in your destination, Google Flights Explore can show you the cheapest places to fly from your home airport. Don’t be afraid to check, scroll, or play with flexible dates and places every day.
Flexible by date and location: Even shifting departures in one day can make a huge difference.
Set a price alert: Websites such as Google Flights and Skyscanner track prices and notify you when fares drop.
Bonus Transfer Points: Some credit cards offer transfer bonuses when you move your points to the airline program, providing additional value. *Look and see which airlines operate the flights of your choice. For example, I recently booked a flight to the Delta run by Air France. Find the same flight on their website and transfer your points to their rewards program for even better deals.
3. Airport lounge access
A long layover? Flight delay? Airport lounges can make your experience even better. The American Express Platinum Card offers free priority passes, Centurion Lounge and Delta Sky Club Access (Flying Delta). It means free food, drinks, comfortable seating, and sometimes even showers and spa services. The girls love living in the lounge and are quite used to it lol.
Tip: Use the Priority Pass app or Amex Travel to see which lounges are available at the airport.
Pros and Cons of American Express Platinum Card
Amex Platinum It’s one of the best travel credit cards, but it’s not for everyone.
Here’s what I like and what to consider before signing up.
Strong Points:
Large welcome bonus: In many cases, a free international flight is well worth it.
Lounge Access: Priority Pass, Centurion Lounge, Delta Sky Club, etc.
Hotel and car rental perks: Car rental discounts in addition to elite status at Hilton and Marriott.
Annual Travel Credits: $200 airline fare credits, $200 hotel credits, Uber credits, and more.
There are no foreign transaction fees: Perfect for international travel.
Monthly benefits when you choose Retailers: There are new benefits that can be added to your account each month, including responsibilities for Lululemon, Kendra Scott, Warby Parker and more.
It also covers the costs of global entry/TSA pre-checking for each cardholder. (They will be checked in the global entry.)
Cons:
High annual fee: $695 a year. This is sudden unless you maximize the benefits.
Not ideal for everyday spending: The revenue structure favors travel purchases over normal costs.
Lounge Overloading: Centurion Lounge is getting busy, with recent restrictions restricting guest access.
Final Thoughts: If you travel frequently and get the perks available, the Amex Platinum is a great card. If not, it may be better to use a low-cost travel card.
(I can always find protein and vegetables in the lounge)
Final Tips for Maximizing Credit Card Points
Plan ahead and book your award flight early. Sweet spots can be found to be 6-8 weeks ago for domestic flights and 8-12 weeks ago for international flights (though you can find deals as you get closer to the date).
Use the transfer bonus to get more value from points. This is where you can get crazy deals!!
Use statement credits to offset travel expenses.
Use cash and points combinations strategically to increase your rewards. It may be cheaper to buy the points you need, rather than simply paying in cash.
If you are interested in applying American Express Platinum Cardyou can use me Here is the introduction link. We’ve had great experiences so far, but it’s our number one card to use. (Southwest cards are used for all business expenses).
Do you use credit card points for your trip? What is the best redefine ever? Leave a comment below. I’d like to hear your tips!
Some additional resources:
Please leave town (The $7 ebook was worth a penny!)
