Traveling is expensive, but it doesn’t have to be if you employ a few proven strategies. Just imagine, you can even travel for free. One of the easiest ways to do so is using credit card points.
In this post, we’ll tell you how you can maximize those points to get free onward tickets while traveling.
Understanding credit card points and miles
First of all, let’s understand the crucial difference between credit card points and miles, which often causes confusion.
Usually, points are received when you make purchases using a credit card and can be redeemed for various things, while miles are given through frequent flier programs based on the distance traveled.
Earning travel miles
Now, you might want to know how to earn travel miles to maximize your travel rewards. One of the easiest ways to rack up points fast is by using travel rewards programs with high earning rates on travel purchases, such as the best credit card for international travel.
Many credit card companies offer good welcome bonuses to new clients, so you can begin earning points very quickly. For example, from the sign-up bonus, you could earn enough points for a free flight or hotel stay, which makes your travels more impressive.
Best frequent flier programs
When redeeming your points, one of the most important things to consider is how good the best frequent flier programs you would be choosing.
Programs like Delta SkyMiles, American Airlines AAdvantage, and United MileagePlus let you redeem your miles for connecting flights, and they all have partnerships with several other airlines, giving you plenty of options.
How to transfer miles
If your credit card rewards program allows it, we’d highly recommend learning how to transfer miles. Amex travel points (American Express) can be assigned to many airline partners, which often will have better award availability than if you booked directly through the credit card company. This is especially useful for booking onward flights at a much cheaper mileage rate.
Bonus tips: how to travel for free
Earlier, we could only dream of traveling for free, but it becomes a true story if you know how to approach it. Here are some not-so-obvious tips on how to travel for free:
- Maximize points and miles: Make the most of your credit card points. Concentrate on cards with higher earning rates and look into cards that can access airport lounge access. You’ll save money on food and drinks at the airport, and your travel experience will vastly improve.
- Combine points and miles: Don’t be afraid to combine points from two or more programs. In some cases, combining rewards from different travel loyalty programs can bring you your dream trip or a free hotel stay sooner.
- Stay informed about promotions: Keep an eye on credit card companies and airline promotions, which can score extra points or let you redeem for less.
- Use travel partnerships: Many credit cards partner with hotels, airlines, and rental car companies. Take advantage of these partnerships to earn more rewards and get the most value out of your travels.
Booking onward tickets
When planning your trip, start thinking about how you’ll get a ticket for your onward travels. Most countries require proof that you will leave the country before your visa (90 days in most countries) expires before they will allow you to board a flight to their country.
Using points and miles is one of the easiest ways to satisfy this requirement and an easy way to avoid spending cash. Look for flights that are an option for a one-way ticket or, even better—a multi-city flight.
With Fast Onward Tickets, getting a valid onward ticket is as easy as never before. We send you a custom generated PDF ticket directly to your inbox in just 1 minute. This is an ideal solution for securing smooth border crossing for visa applications, digital nomad visas, or when you just have flexible trip plans.
Conclusion
Credit card points can make your travel plans affordable or even free of charge. Once you know how to earn travel miles, which are the best frequent flyer programs, and how to transfer miles, you have all the necessary knowledge to see the world for much less than the cost of a regular ticket.
Make the most of your credit card rewards and save on each trip with Fast Onward Tickets!
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