How to Use Transfer Partners to Maximize Your Points
If you’re sitting on a pile of credit card points and wondering how to get the most bang for your buck, transfer partners are your golden ticket. Instead of redeeming points for cash back or gift cards, savvy travelers use transfer partners to unlock premium travel experiences—often at a fraction of the cost.
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What Are Transfer Partners?
Transfer partners are airlines and hotel programs that allow you to convert your credit card points into their loyalty currencies. Major issuers like Chase, American Express, Capital One, and Citi have their own networks of partners.
Examples:
Chase Ultimate Rewards → United, Hyatt, British Airways
Amex Membership Rewards → Delta, ANA, Hilton
Capital One Miles → Air Canada, Singapore Airlines, Wyndham
Citi Thank You Points -> American Airlines, Virgin, Jet Blue
Why Use Transfer Partners?
Here’s why transferring points can be a game-changer:
Better Value: Flights and hotel stays often cost fewer points than booking through a portal
Premium Travel: Fly business or first class for a fraction of the retail price
Global Reach: Access international carriers and boutique hotel chains
🤔 New to points and miles? I’ve got answers to your most common questions. Read the FAQ → Frequently Asked Questions
How to Maximize Transfers
1. Know Your Transfer Ratios
Not all transfers are 1:1. Some programs offer bonuses (e.g., Amex → Hilton at 1:2), while others may dilute value. Always check the ratio before transferring.
2. Wait for Transfer Bonuses
Issuers often run limited-time promotions (e.g., “30% bonus when transferring to Virgin Atlantic”). These can stretch your points significantly.
3. Search Award Availability First
Before transferring, confirm that the flight or hotel you want is actually bookable with points. Transfers are usually irreversible.
4. Use Airline Alliances
Transfer to one airline, then book with its alliance partners. For example, transfer Chase points to United, then book a Lufthansa flight via Star Alliance.
5. Leverage Sweet Spots
Some programs have hidden gems:
ANA (Amex): Round-trip business class to Japan for ~85,000 miles
Hyatt (Chase): Luxury hotels for 25,000 points per night
Tools to Help You Plan
Cardpointers - Don’t leave points behind. Cardpointers helps me ensure I earn the most points for all my purchases. I also don’t miss credit card offers on my cards, thanks to this handy tool. Learn more here.
Point.me – Search award flights across multiple airlines. Check out this post, which explains how I utilize this excellent tool to find the best deals on airfare using points and miles. Very beginner-friendly.
Ready to explore the right card for you? Check out these cards I keep in my wallet -> What’s in my Wallet’’
If you enjoy learning how we travel as a family using points, miles, and smart credit card strategies, I’d love for you to follow along:
