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How to Use Credit Card Points for Travel
Sharing my tips on how to use credit card points for travel. Check out all the details here!
There are certain things in life that I regret—like leaving my MBA program or not signing up for rewarding credit cards sooner. For years, we listened to friends talk about credit card points, but due to past debt, it was something we avoided. However, the allure of free trips, hotel upgrades, and lounge access eventually convinced us to give it a try about a decade ago. It was a total game-changer. Since then, we’ve traveled for free multiple times, enjoyed luxury hotel stays, accessed airport lounges, and earned points on everyday spending.
How to Use Credit Card Points for Travel: Maximize Rewards for Flights, Hotels, and Lounge Access
In this post, I’ll share tips on how to maximize credit card rewards for travel and discuss my experience with the American Express Platinum Card, including its pros and cons. I’ll also share my favorite strategies for securing the best flight deals!
Ways to Use Credit Card Points for Travel
1. Free Hotel Stays and Upgrades
Many travel cards allow you to redeem points for free nights at major hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt. Some cards even offer automatic elite status, which can lead to room upgrades, late checkouts, and complimentary breakfast. When booking through the Amex Travel portal, you can see available rewards, such as resort credits, early check-in, or room upgrades. Additionally, the Platinum Card offers a $200 annual credit for its Fine Hotels & Resorts collection.
Tip: Look for transfer partners to stretch your points further. For example, American Express Membership Rewards offers a 1:1 transfer to Hilton, but promotions often provide even better value—sometimes even 2:1 points!
2. Booking Flights and Scoring Airline Tickets
One of the best ways to use credit card points is to book flights. You can either redeem points directly through your card’s travel portal or transfer them to airline partners for greater value.
Best ways to find flight deals:
- Use Google Flights Explore: If your travel dates are flexible, Google Flights can show the cheapest destinations from your home airport.
- Be flexible with dates and locations: Shifting your departure by just one day can make a big difference.
- Set price alerts: Websites like Google Flights and Skyscanner allow you to track fares and notify you when prices drop.
- Take advantage of bonus transfers: Some credit cards offer bonus points when transferring to airline programs, giving you extra value.
3. Access to Airport Lounges
Long layovers or flight delays? Airport lounges can significantly improve your travel experience. The American Express Platinum Card offers complimentary access to Priority Pass lounges, Centurion Lounges, and Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta). Enjoy free meals, drinks, comfortable seating, and even showers or spas.
Tip: Check which lounges are available at your airport using Priority Pass or Amex Travel.
The Pros and Cons of the American Express Platinum Card
The Amex Platinum is one of the best travel cards, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s what I love—and what to consider before signing up.
Pros:
- Massive welcome bonus: Often worth a free international flight.
- Lounge access: Includes Priority Pass, Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club, and more.
- Hotel and rental car benefits: Elite status at Hilton and Marriott, plus discounts on car rentals.
- Annual travel credits: $200 airline fee credit, $200 hotel credit, Uber credits, and more.
- No foreign transaction fees: Perfect for international travel.
- Monthly retail perks: Monthly offers from retailers like Lululemon, Kendra Scott, and Warby Parker, plus semi-annual Saks credits.
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck reimbursement: Covers the cost for each cardholder.
Cons:
- High annual fee: $695 per year, which may not be worth it if you don’t maximize the benefits.
- Limited everyday earning: The rewards structure favors travel purchases over daily expenses.
- Overcrowded lounges: Centurion Lounges can get busy, and recent restrictions limit guest access.
Final Thoughts: If you travel frequently and can take advantage of its perks, the Amex Platinum is an excellent card. Otherwise, a different travel card might be a better fit.
Final Tips for Maximizing Your Credit Card Points
- Plan ahead: Book award flights 6-8 weeks in advance for domestic trips and 8-12 weeks for international travel.
- Leverage transfer bonuses: Get more value by transferring points during promotions.
- Use statement credits: Offset travel expenses with available credits.
- Combine cash and points: Sometimes it’s cheaper to purchase additional points instead of paying entirely in cash.
If you’re interested in applying for the American Express Platinum Card, you can use my referral link here. It’s been our go-to card for travel, and we’ve had an amazing experience with it. (We use the Southwest card for all our business expenses.)
Do you use credit card points for travel? What’s your best redemption so far? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear your tips!
Additional Resources:
- Just Go Out of the City (A $7 ebook that’s worth every penny!)
- The Points Guy
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