Using rewards points and miles can drastically reduce flight costs, but it requires smart planning. Produkt-Bank explains how to leverage loyalty programs and credit card rewards to find the cheapest flights.
1. Join Frequent Flyer Programs
Sign up for airline loyalty programs, even if you fly infrequently. Programs like Delta SkyMiles or United MileagePlus let you earn miles on flights and partner activities. Product-Bank’s rewards tracker consolidates your miles across airlines for easy management.
2. Choose the Right Travel Credit Card
Cards like Chase Sapphire or American Express Platinum offer high sign-up bonuses and earn points on travel purchases. Use these points to book flights or transfer them to airline partners for better value. Product-Bank’s card comparator helps you pick the best card for your travel habits.
3. Redeem Points Strategically
Not all redemptions are equal. For example, using miles for international business-class flights often yields higher value than domestic economy tickets. Product-Bank’s rewards calculator shows the cash equivalent of your points, helping you decide when to redeem or pay cash.
4. Look for Transfer Bonuses
Credit card programs sometimes offer bonuses when transferring points to airline partners. For instance, a 30% bonus can turn 10,000 points into 13,000 miles. Product-Bank’s deal alerts notify you of these promotions, maximizing your rewards’ value.
5. Book Award Flights Early
Award seats are limited and disappear fast, especially for popular routes. Book as soon as the airline’s award calendar opens—often 11-12 months in advance. Product-Bank’s award finder scans availability across multiple airlines to secure the best deals.
6. Combine Cash and Points
Some airlines, like Southwest or British Airways, allow you to pay partly with miles and partly with cash. This is ideal when you’re short on points. Product-Bank’s hybrid payment tool calculates the most cost-effective combination for your booking.
7. Avoid Redemption Fees
Some programs charge high fees for award tickets, especially for last-minute bookings. Plan ahead to minimize these costs, and compare fees across airlines. Product-Bank’s fee analyzer highlights the true cost of award tickets, ensuring you get the cheapest option.
By mastering rewards programs and using Product-Bank’s tools, you can turn points and miles into significant flight savings. Start earning, track your rewards, and redeem wisely to make your next trip more affordable.
