Sharing my tips on how to use credit card points for travel. Check out all of the details here!
There are some things in my life that I regret. That one time I moved to Tucson and was having a crisis and got bangs. Quitting my MBA program when I was more than halfway finished. Aaaaand not signing up for reward credit cards sooner.
We often heard our friends talking about credit card points, but since we had debt in the past, it was something we avoided. We kept hearing about free flights and lounge access, so about 10 years ago, we decided to go for it. It’s been a total gamechanger. Since then, we have traveled multiple times for free, enjoyed hotel upgrades, lounge access, and have been rewarded for everyday spending through points.
How to use credit card points for travel
How to Use Credit Card Points for Travel: Maximize Rewards for Flights, Hotels, and Lounge Access
In this post, I’m going to share some tips on how to maximize your credit card rewards for travel and share my experience with the American Express Platinum Card, including its pros and cons. I’ll also share my favorite tips for getting the best airfare deals!
Ways to Use Credit Card Points for Travel
1. Free Hotel Stays & Upgrades
Many travel credit cards allow you to redeem points for free hotel nights at major chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt. Some cards also offer automatic elite status, which can lead to room upgrades, late checkout, and free breakfast. When I book through the Amex travel portal, we’re able to see which rewards we’ll receive, whether it’s late checkout, early check-in, a resort credit, or a room upgrade when available. You also get $200 credit each year for their Fine Hotels & Resorts collection.
(Free room service at our upgraded Venetian suite in Vegas. Our flight was also free)
Tip: Look for transfer partners where your points stretch further. For example, American Express Membership Rewards points transfer at a 1:1 ratio to Hilton Honors but often have promotions offering extra value. Sometimes you can get 2 for 1 points so it’s worth it!! You can do this directly through the American Express website.
2. Booking Flights & Scoring Airfare Deals
One of the best ways to use credit card points is to book flights. You can redeem points directly through your card’s travel portal or transfer them to airline partners for even better value.
Best ways to find airfare deals:
Use Google Explore:
Hi friends! Happy Friday! How was the week? I hope it was amazing. Ours started off in Orlando and ended up back in the TUS with a sick Pilot, and me scrambling around lol. This weekend, I’m looking forward to the symphony, time with friends, a hike, and a trip to Phoenix for Liv’s first dance competition of the season.
(Soup season! I just throw a ton of veggie, broth, herbs and beans into the Instant Pot then top with lemon juice and avocado)
I hope you have a lovely weekend ahead, too!
Disney World adventures:
Disney was perfection, as usual. We got in late Friday night and slept in a bit before heading to Magic Kingdom on Saturday. We spent the day doing all of the rides and had lunch at Be Our Guest. This is one of our staples, but the food was especially amazing during this trip.
(I also had gf rolls, and a French onion soup that they made without the crouton)
I mentioned to the server that I was gf – she asked if there were allergies at the table and I said I wasn’t allergic but I avoid it for health reasons – and she brought so many gluten-free treats!!
I have to admit that we were underwhelmed by the food on our last Disney cruise, and the food at the parks this time was wayyyy better. Everything was fresh and delicious, and it was super easy to find gluten-free options, protein, and vegetables amongst the usual cascade of Disney popcorn and sweet treats. 😉
We rolled into the park at 11 and had a long leisurely lunch, but we were still able to do 15