Booking flights with transfer points is like unlocking secret travel deals, but it takes a little know-how. Here’s a breakdown of how to find award flights, transfer points, and book those dream seats—all without breaking a sweat.
The foundation of successful point bookings is research. First, know your transfer partners. Each bank—like Chase, Amex, or Capital One—has a list of airlines they partner with. Skip the guesswork and focus on these options to save time. Next, dive into award searches. Head to your airline’s website, enter your travel details, and make sure to select the “book with points” option. Award search tools differ, so look for phrases like “book with miles” or “points redemption.” If you’re stuck, a quick online search or community group can help guide the way. Think of this step as comparison shopping for flights. Searching multiple partners ensures you find the best deal for your points.
Once you’ve found the perfect award flight, it’s time to transfer your points. Inside your bank’s portal, locate the travel partner transfer section. Select the airline, enter your frequent flyer details, and specify how many points to transfer. Pro tip: double-check your account information. Names must match exactly between your bank and airline accounts to avoid delays. Most transfers are instant, but some might take 24–48 hours. If there’s a lag, check if the airline allows you to hold the award seat while waiting for points to arrive.
The moment those points hit your airline account, book immediately. Award seats are limited, and delaying even a day can mean losing out on your dream deal. Complete the booking directly on the airline’s website where you transferred your points. After securing your booking, take a moment to celebrate!