How to Book Flights with Points and Miles

To book flights with points, search for award availability on airline alliance websites before transferring your credit card points to a partner airline. Focus on high-value redemptions like business or first-class international flights to get the best return on your miles.

1. Identify your airline alliances. Know which airlines belong to the three major alliances: Star Alliance (e.g., United, Lufthansa), oneworld (e.g., American, British Airways), and SkyTeam (e.g., Delta, Air France). You can often use points from one airline to book a flight on any partner in that same alliance.
2. Search for 'Award Availability'. Use a search tool like Point.me or look directly on an airline’s website, ensuring you check the 'Book with Miles' or 'Award Travel' box. Don't transfer your points until you see the specific flight availability; transfers are usually irreversible.
3. Check the transfer partner list. If you have flexible bank points (like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards), check their list of airline partners. Find which partner airline has the seat available, then confirm that your bank program transfers to that specific airline.
4. Transfer and book. Once confirmed, initiate the transfer from your bank portal. Transfers are usually instant, but can take up to 24 hours. Once the miles arrive in your airline loyalty account, complete the booking as you would a cash ticket.

Are points flights really free?

No. You still have to pay government-imposed taxes and airport fees, which range from a few dollars for domestic flights to several hundred for international business class.

When is the best time to book with points?

Airlines release award seats about 330 days in advance. If you have a specific date, book as early as possible. If you are flexible, look for 'last-minute' deals 14 days before departure.