Estimated reading time: 12 minutes | By Desmo Travel | Last Updated: 11-Feb-2025.

Key Takeaways

1. Introduction

Flight prices rise every year. A roundtrip ticket from New York to Paris now costs $800–$1,200 points might be enough for a discounted hotel stay. Travelers need credit card rewards for free flights to save money.

Credit card points and airline miles transform travel budgets. For example:

• Miles and points can be a great way to rack up rewards for your travels. turn $2,000 business-class tickets into 60,000 points.
• Travel rewards let families vacation twice a year for half the cost.

Most travelers waste points on gift cards or low-value redemptions. This guide teaches you to:

1. Book flights with credit card points for 1.5¢–5¢+ per point.
2. Avoid fees and blackout dates.
3. Submit requests to our agents for free help.

Best Airline Loyalty Programs for Free Flights

Compare Top Airlines for Credit Card Points

Delta SkyMiles, United MileagePlus, and Air France Flying Blue rank highest for redeeming credit card points.

• Delta SkyMiles: Best for U.S. domestic flights. Use travel credit cards that earn bonus points after you spend. your card to pay and earn valuable points and miles. Amex points.
• United MileagePlus: Best for stopovers. Use Chase points.
• Air France Flying Blue: Best for Europe flights. Transfer Chase or Capital One points.

Pro Tip: Redeeming points and miles can often provide more value than receiving a statement credit.: Book flights 6 months early for peak seasons like Christmas.

Ways to Earn Points Quickly

Use Rewards Credit Cards for Daily Spending

• Groceries: Earn 3x points with Amex Gold when you use your card to pay for eligible purchases.
• Gas: Earn 4x points with Chase Freedom Flex when you use the card for travel-related purchases.
• Dining: Earn 5x points with Capital One Savor.

Pro Tip: Pay rent or bills with credit cards (check for no fees).

How to Redeem Points for International Flights

Transfer Points to Airline Partners

• Chase → Air Canada: Book Lufthansa flights to Europe.
• Amex → ANA: You can transfer to an airline to maximize the value of your points.: Book roundtrip flights to Japan.
• Capital One → Avianca: Book Star Alliance flights to South America.

Pro Tip: Avoid fees by booking partner airlines.

Co-Branded Credit Cards: Are They Worth It?

Pros and Cons of Airline Credit Cards

Example: Using airline points wisely can lead to significant savings on future flights.: The United Explorer Card offers 2x miles on United flights but works only with United.

Airline and Hotel Rewards Programs

 Pair Points for Free Trips

Combine airline miles and hotel points for full vacations:

1. Use Chase points for United flights.
2. Use Amex points for Marriott hotels.

Example: 60k Chase points = Roundtrip flight + 3-night hotel stay in Mexico.

Getting Started with Points and Miles

First Steps for Beginners

1. Pick one rewards credit card (e.g., Chase Sapphire Preferred).
2. Spend $4,000 in 3 months to earn a 60k-point bonus.
3. Submit a request to our agents for flight deals.

Pro Tip: Track points expiry dates in a spreadsheet.

Maximize the Value of Your Points

Avoid Low-Value Redemptions

• Bad: Not using your credit card for flights can result in lost opportunities for earning loyalty points.: 25k points for a $250 gift card (1¢/point).
• Good: 25k points for a $500 flight (2¢/point).

Pro Tip: Always compare cash prices before using points.

Travel Partners Matter

Book Flights with Partner Airlines

• Chase partners: United, Southwest, and Air Canada are examples of airlines where you can earn loyalty points.
• Amex partners: Delta, Air France, ANA.
• Capital One partners: British Airways, Avianca, Qantas.

Example: Transfer 50k Chase points to Air Canada for a 60k-mile flight to Europe.

Best Credit Cards for Travel Rewards

Top Picks for 2025

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred: 2x points on travel/dining.
2. Amex Platinum: Earn 5x points on flights when you use the card to pay with your travel credit card.
3. Capital One Venture X: 2x miles on all purchases can help you accumulate miles you earn quickly.

Pro Tip: Apply for cards with 80k+ sign-up bonuses.

Understanding Miles and Points

Fixed-Value vs. Transferable Points

• Fixed-value: 1 point = 1¢ (e.g., Capital One Venture Miles).
• Transferable: 1 point = 1.5–2¢+ (e.g., Chase Ultimate Rewards).

Pro Tip: Transferable points offer more flexibility.

How to Use Points for Free Flights

Submit a Request to Our Agents

1. Share your points balance and travel dates.
2. We find flights with 1.5¢+/point value, making your points and miles more valuable when used to book.
3. Book risk-free with our guidance.

Example: John saved 35k points on a NYC→Paris flight using our Air France deal.

2. How to Book Flights with Credit Card Points: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Check Your Points Balance

• Log into your Chase, Amex, or Capital One account.
• Track expiration dates (e.g., Amex points never expire; Chase points expire after 18 inactive months) to maximize the miles you earn.

Step 2: Submit Your Travel Request

Share your plans with our agents:

1. Destination: Choosing the right airline can help you earn even more points for your travels.: “Paris,” “Tokyo,” or “Flexible.”
2. Dates: Exact or seasonal (e.g., “Fall 2025”).
3. Points Program: Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum, etc.

Example: “I have 80,000 Chase points and want to book flights with credit card points to Tokyo in business class.”

Step 3: Let Our Experts Find Deals

We:

1. Compare 15+ loyalty programs (United, Delta, Air France).
2. Book flights with credit card points at 1.5¢+/point value (e.g., NYC→Paris for 35k points).
3. Negotiate fees (e.g., waived surcharges on Air Canada).

Case Study:
Sarah saved 45,000 points booking flights with credit card points to Rome using our Air France deal.

Step 4: Confirm & Travel

We guide you through:

• Safely transferring points to airlines.
• Confirming seat availability.
• Avoiding cancellation/change fees.

3. 5 Expert Tips to Book Flights with Credit Card Points

1. Target High-Value Airlines

• Air France: 50k points for U.S.→Europe business class.
• United: 35k points for U.S.→Hawaii economy.

2. Book One-Way Flights

• Mix programs: Use Chase points for departure and Amex for return to maximize your airline points.

3. Use Transfer Bonuses

• Example: Air Canada offers 20% bonus miles for Chase transfers.

4. Avoid Peak Seasons

• Fly mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) to book flights with credit card points Travel credit cards earn rewards cheaply if used strategically.

5. Submit Requests Early

• Plan 6+ months ahead for holidays like Christmas.

4. FAQs: Book Flights with Credit Card Points

Q1: How much are 50,000 points worth?

• Economy: $500–$750.
• Business class: $1,500–$2,500 bonus points after you spend can significantly enhance your travel options.

Q2: Can I book flights with credit card points for a group?

• Yes: We handle groups of 10+ (no extra fees).

Q3: Are there hidden costs?

• No: We break down fees upfront (e.g., $100 taxes on 50k-point flights).

5. Best Credit Cards to Book Flights with Points

6. Ready to Book Flights with Credit Card Points?

1. Submit a request here or call (732) 234-3740.
2. Get 3+ flight options within 24 hours.

Most Common FAQ’S

Q: How can I use my travel credit card to book a flight?

A: First, log into your travel credit card portal and check your available rewards points or miles. Then, search for flights through the travel portal or transfer them to an airline loyalty program to book a flight using miles.

Q: What’s the best way to earn miles for free travel?

A: Using a travel card for everyday purchases, especially those that offer 2 points per dollar on travel and dining, can help you rack up points quickly. Make sure to pay with your card to maximize the number of points you earn.

Q: How many points do I need for a free flight?

A: The number of points you need varies depending on the airline or hotel and the specific flight. Typically, domestic flights can range from 10,000 to 25,000 points, but it’s best to check your credit card issuer’s travel portal for exact rates.

Q: Can I use my credit card rewards to book travel for someone else?

A: Yes, most travel credit cards allow you to book travel for others. Just use the points like cash and enter the traveler’s information when booking a flight or hotel.

Q: Should I redeem my points for travel or statement credit?

A: Redeeming your points for travel often gives you more value compared to statement credits, especially when using your credit card points. Typically, a point is worth more when you use it to book travel rather than as a statement credit toward your bill.

Q: How do bonus points work with many credit cards?

A: Many credit cards offer bonus points as a sign-up bonus when you spend a certain amount within the first few months. These can be a great way to quickly earn miles or rewards points.

Q: Are there specific airlines I should focus on with my points?

A: It depends on where you want to travel. Look for partnerships your credit card issuer has with airlines to maximize your points and miles based loyalty points. Transferring points to a specific airline can sometimes offer better value, especially if you frequently fly with that airline and accumulate loyalty points.

Q: How does my credit score affect my ability to earn and redeem credit card rewards?

A: A good credit score can help you qualify for better travel credit cards with higher rewards rates. Consistently using miles and paying off your card can also positively impact your credit score over time, as travel credit cards earn valuable points.

Q: What’s the guide to traveling on points and miles in 2025?

A: Our 2025 guide to traveling on points suggests focusing on cards that offer 3 points per dollar on travel and dining, using portals to book travel, and keeping an eye on bonus points promotions to maximize your rewards.

Q: How do I transfer my points to an airline?

A: Log into your travel card account, navigate to the rewards section, and choose the option to transfer points. Select the airline program and follow the steps to complete the transfer. Make sure to check the transfer ratio to ensure you’re getting the best value.

Q: How can I use my travel credit card to book a flight?

A: To book a flight using your travel credit card, simply log into your credit card issuer’s travel portal, browse for flights, and use your points or miles to cover the cost. Make sure to check how many points are needed for a free flight in the world of miles and points.

Q: What is the best way to earn miles with my credit card?

A: The best way to earn miles is to use your card for everyday purchases, especially on travel and dining, as many credit cards offer bonus points for these categories. For example, some cards offer 3 points per dollar spent on travel and dining.

Q: How do I know how many points are needed for a free flight?

A: The number of points required varies depending on the airline or hotel program and the specific flight in miles. Check your credit card issuer’s travel portal for the exact number of points needed for your desired route.

Q: Can I transfer my points to a specific airline?

A: Yes, many travel credit cards allow you to transfer to an airline’s loyalty program, especially if you use the card to pay for your flights. This can be a great way to maximize value, especially if you have a preferred airline.

Q: What should I consider when choosing a travel card?

A: Look for a card with a good earn rate, such as 2 points per dollar on travel and dining, and one that offers flexibility in redeeming points for travel. Also, consider any annual fees and your credit score requirements.

Q: Are there any other ways to use my travel points?

A: Yes, you can redeem your points for statement credit toward travel purchases, book travel through your card’s portal, or use them for other rewards like hotel stays or car rentals.

Q: How does the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card work for travel?

A: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card allows you to earn miles on every purchase, which can then be redeemed for travel expenses. It offers flexibility and ease when you want to book a flight or other travel services using your credit card points.

Q: Can I earn and redeem credit card rewards points for free travel?

A: Absolutely! By using your card consistently and taking advantage of bonus points categories, you can accumulate enough rewards points to cover the cost of flights, effectively allowing you to travel the world for less.

Q: What is the value of a point when I redeem for travel?

A: The value of a point can vary depending on how you redeem it. Generally, redeeming through your credit card’s travel portal or transferring to an airline’s loyalty program can provide the best value per point.

Disclaimer
Last Updated: 11-Feb-2025

Informational Purpose:
This blog provides general tips about using credit card points for flights. It is not professional financial, legal, or travel advice.

Accuracy in points and miles valuations is essential for maximizing your rewards.
Flight deals, credit card rewards, and airline policies change frequently. We strive for accuracy but do not guarantee prices, availability, or rules mentioned here.

Third-Party Services:
We may mention airlines, credit cards, or loyalty programs. We are not affiliated with these companies unless stated, especially in the world of points and miles. Verify details directly with them.

No Financial Advice: However, consider how points might affect your overall financial strategy.
We are not financial advisors. Credit card applications, points transfers, or bookings are your decision. Consult a professional for personalized advice.

No Guarantees:
Results vary. Past examples (e.g., “Saved 50k points”) are illustrative and not a promise of similar outcomes when redeeming points and miles.

Liability:
Desmo Travel is not liable for losses, fees, or issues arising from using information in this blog.

Jurisdiction:
This content is governed by the laws of USA