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Articles by Patrick Stouffer
When it comes to travel, the biggest hurdle for most people is the cost. This is where points and miles can make a dream a reality — but only if you earn the right rewards for the trip you want to take. There are two ways you can approach planning a trip with points and miles. You can look at what rewards you already have and ask, “Where can these take me?” Or, you can start with a destination and work backward to figure out which points and miles can get you there.
Chase Launches New 70% Transfer Bonus to IHG One Rewards — But Is It Worth It?
Chase has launched a new limited-time Ultimate Rewards transfer bonus — and this one’s a head-turner on paper: a hefty 70% bonus when transferring Ultimate Rewards points to IHG One Rewards, valid through January 15, 2026. But while the bonus amount is flashy, don’t get too excited. IHG is one of Chase’s least valuable transfer partners. Even with this elevated bonus, you're likely better off using your Ultimate Rewards elsewhere. Let's show you why.
Lucky United cardholders may find a lucrative promotion to earn bonus miles just by adding an authorized user to their card. Through September 30, targeted cardholders earn 15,000 bonus miles by adding just one new authorized user to your card. Adding an authorized user incurs no additional cost or fees, and there's no spending requirement. That makes this promotion a no-brainer if you're targeted.
Hidden Airline Transfer Bonuses: Why I'm Transferring All of My Bilt Points to Accor This Rent Day
Bilt Rewards continues to raise the bar with its Rent Day transfer bonuses, and June is no exception. This month, Bilt Gold or Platinum members can transfer Points to Accor Live Limitless (ALL) and receive a 200% bonus. At face value, this already presents a terrific opportunity for those who frequent Accor Hotels. But hidden airline transfer bonuses make this Bilt-to-Accor transfer bonus even better.
How to Earn Rewards on Bill Payments With Plastiq — and if This Service Is Worth the Fees
Plastiq is an online bill-pay service that allows you to use a credit card for just about anything. Contractors, rent, tuition; you name it, and Plastiq pays it (with your card). But spoiler alert — this comes at a cost. The service has been through some ups and downs over the last several years. But for better or for worse, it's still alive and kicking in 2025. So, we figure it's time to take another look to see if using Plastiq ever makes sense. What Is Plastiq?
The Best Credit Cards for Dining and Restaurants (2024)
The best restaurant rewards credit card is the American Express® Gold Card. It offers a lucrative earning rate of 4x Membership Rewards points per dollar spent at restaurants, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Alternatives include the Citi Premier® Card with 3X points per dollar on dining purchases and the Chase Freedom Unlimited®, which earns a solid 3% cash back on dining purchases and charges no annual fee.
Best Credit Cards for Travel Purchases in November 2025
Redeeming points and miles for travel is the dream for award travelers. However, sometimes the points or miles cost doesn't make for a good redemption, so you decide to pay cash for that trip. Using one of the best credit cards for travel purchases in these situations can earn you thousands of extra points per year. Determining the best credit card for travel purchases is tricky because it is subjective.
The Complete Guide to Earning American Airlines Miles and Loyalty Points
American Airlines miles are some of the most valuable and versatile rewards you can earn. You can redeem them for travel on two dozen different AAdvantage partner airlines to reach over 1,000 destinations. No matter the type of redemptions you chase — from economy to premium cabins — AAdvantage miles should be a key part of your rewards-earning strategy. And if you're a status chaser, you'll want to care about Loyalty Points, too.
Amex Offers: A Beginner’s Guide to Saving Money and Earning Bonus Points
Amex Offers are one of the best benefits available to American Express cardmembers. If you like saving money on things you might already be buying, it's time to take a closer look at how these promotions can put extra cash in your pocket and supercharge your Membership Rewards-earning and cash savings strategy. Unlike Chase Offers, which only provide discounts at select merchants, Amex Offers are split between cash rebates and opportunities to earn extra Membership Rewards points.
Capital One's Best Transfer Partners: Top 4
Capital One was one of the last major bank programs to launch a transferrable rewards program, but it's since made up for lost time as it tries to catch up to established rivals like Chase Ultimate Rewards and Amex Membership Rewards. After launching airline and hotel transfer partners in 2018, Capital One's made big improvements to its loyalty program. Now, Capital One boasts 18 total transfer partners (15 airline and three hotel programs). Of these, points transfer to 16 programs at a 1:1 ratio.
Donate Aeroplan Points to Miles4Migrants and Reunite Families
Editor's Note: The author of this post is a former AwardWallet writer who currently works for Miles4Migrants — an organization whose mission we fully support. Over the last few years, I've written hundreds of posts detailing the best ways to earn and maximize points and miles. But now, I've found an even more rewarding way to redeem your hard-earned miles. Meet Miles4Migrants — a 501(c)(3) charity who turns donated frequent flyer miles into a life-changing force for good.
How To Achieve Your Travel Goals Using Points and Miles in 2024
When it comes to travel, the biggest hurdle for most people is the cost. This is where points and miles can make a dream a reality. If you resolved to travel more in 2024 but are unsure how to make it happen, points and miles are the perfect vehicle to help you get there. There are two main approaches to traveling with points and miles: Travel based on your current balance: The first option is to look at what rewards you have and choose your destination based on where your points can take you.
Stack LifeMiles Promotions to Save on Awards (Lufthansa Biz Class: 27k Points + $500)
LifeMiles has become a cult classic among intermediate and advanced-level award travelers. As the loyalty program for Avianca, it offers some incredibly lucrative redemption rates on Star Alliance partners. But the program also has gained fame for industry-leading promotions. If you haven't had a chance to take advantage of LifeMiles's exceptional award pricing yet, now could be a perfect time. That's because there are currently two great promotions happening at the same time.
Should You Buy American Airlines AAdvantage® Miles With Up to a 35% Discount?
If it seems that American Airlines always has a mileage sale, you aren't wrong. American Airlines has virtually stopped doing periodic buy miles promotions, only offering one special offer so far in 2023. Instead, it now offers an evergreen discount of up to 35%. Here's what you need to know about buying American Airlines AAdvantage® miles now, so you can decide whether it makes sense. When Should You Buy AA Miles?
How to Get Airline Elite Status Without Flying
Earning elite status with an airline can undoubtedly make your flying experience more enjoyable. Besides earning extra miles on paid flights, it can add prioritized services, seat upgrades, and improved airport experiences — including lounge access and priority boarding. Unfortunately, receiving frequent flyer elite status can also be a somewhat paradoxical experience.
Chase Launches New 80% Transfer Bonus to IHG One Rewards — But Is It Worth It?
Chase has launched a new limited-time Ultimate Rewards transfer bonus — and this one’s a head-turner on paper: a hefty 80% bonus when transferring Ultimate Rewards points to IHG One Rewards, valid through October 22, 2025. But while the bonus amount is flashy, don’t get too excited. IHG is one of Chase’s least valuable transfer partners. Even with this elevated bonus, you're likely better off using your Ultimate Rewards elsewhere. Let's show you why.
Chase Launches 30% Avios Transfer Bonus – Maximize for Flights to Hawaii, Europe, and the Maldives
Chase just launched a new 30% transfer bonus to three Avios programs. Now through October 31, 2025, you'll get a 30% boost when transferring Chase Ultimate Rewards to British Airways Executive Club, Iberia Plus, and Aer Lingus AerClub Avios. This Avios transfer bonus is definitely worth taking advantage of if you're looking to book an award through one of the five Avios programs. Here are the details, plus some ways to maximize this Avios transfer bonus.
One-Way ANA Awards Now Possible With Virgin Atlantic Miles!
One of the sweetest sweet spots just got even sweeter! Virgin Atlantic Flying Club quietly updated its partnership with All Nippon Airways, one of the flagship carriers of Japan. From now on, Virgin Flying Club members can now book one-way awards on ANA in any class of service—including its incredible first class product! Let's go over why this is such an exciting development and take a look at some of the potential implications. ANA's new business class product “The Room”.
Chase Expands Peloton Partnership, Extends Pay Yourself Back
Chase has fully joined the Peloton craze. With the home exercise system increasing in popularity every day, Chase is doubling down on its partnership. Starting March 30, 2021, Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders will earn 5-10X points on several types of Peloton purchases—including the purchase of the bike itself. This pairs nicely with the up-to-$120 in Peloton membership credits announced for the same cards last year.
Act Fast! Alaska Offers 25,000 California Residents a Free Flight Within the Golden State
Alaska is running a very quick, very lucrative promotion for California residents who don't already have a Mileage Plan account. Through the end of the day today (March 3, 2021), 25,000 new Mileage Plan members from California can get a complimentary flight within the Golden State for just the taxes and fees. However, in case you're not lucky enough to reside in the land of sunshine, fear not. Alaska is simultaneously offering a great deal for everyone else too.
Last Chance: Get the Brex Cash Card to Score 110,000 Points With No Annual Fee
This promotion has ended; please review current/active promotions. Update 2/26/2021: One Mile At A Time shared that the 110,000-point bonus on the Brex Cash card is likely ending soon. If you own a business and haven't taken advantage of this offer, you'll want to do so ASAP. It's an exciting time to be in the world of travel rewards. New companies enter the field all the time, bringing along exciting innovations to help customers make the most of their finances.
Get 30 Marriott Elite Night Credits From Credit Cards
One of the best benefits of holding a Marriott Bonvoy credit card recently got even better. In April 2020, Marriott updated the terms and conditions for its co-branded credit cards. Now, cardholders can receive up to 30 Marriott elite night credits per year just for holding Marriott credit cards! Photo of The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort courtesy of the hotel Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards Over the years, Marriott has offered a dizzying array of co-branded cards.
Emirates Will Block First Class Awards From Partners Starting in April 2021
Emirates First Class is one of the most aspirational award bookings you can make. It's fancy. Beyond the glitz and glamour of the gold-laden cabin and the endless Dom Perignon champagne, Emirates first-class passengers can even take showers in-flight onboard Emirates Airbus A380s. To book this luxurious experience, you've recently been able to use either Emirates' Skywards miles, or currencies from partners—like Alaska Airlines, Qantas, or JAL.
American Express Adds New Uber Cash Credits, Uber Eats Pass to Select Amex Cards
A few days ago, we learned that the American Express® Gold Card will lose the $100 Airline Fee Credit in 2022. At the time, Amex wouldn't say what—if anything—would be added to replace this benefit. Now, Amex has announced a replacement: $10 per month Uber Cash credit. Moreover, Amex will add a new benefit for The Platinum Card® from American Express, Amex Gold, and American Express® Green Card cardholders.
Why Now is a Great Time to Book a Dream Trip to French Polynesia
Over the last six months, the outbreak of COVID-19 has forced millions of travelers off the road. Road warriors and leisure travelers alike have been forced to hang up their backpacks and carry-ons. We are all left wondering when it'll be safe to hit the skies again, and when borders will reopen to Americans. Amidst my lockdown restlessness, I stumbled upon an incredibly useful website run by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Earn a Free Night for Every 2 Stays at Choice Hotels This Summer
Choice Hotels is out with its fall promotion for 2020, and it's very similar to what we've seen in the past. Once again, members can earn at least 8,000 points from every two stays. That's enough for a free stay at more than 1,000 of Choice properties. However, this promotion is presented a bit differently than before. Although the promotion guarantees a minimum of 8,000 points, Choice is advertising that members can earn a $50 gift card for staying twice.
Innovative New X1 'Smart Card' Announced
Lookout card-issuing banks, there's a new kid in town. The waitlist for the X1 credit card is now live, and its arrival is stirring things up in the credit card world. Billed as the “smartest card ever made”, the X1 is a totally new concept of rewards credit card that offers unique ways of earning points on everyday purchases and innovative features never before seen—all for zero annual fees.
See If You’re Targeted To Earn Double Million Miler Qualifying Miles in 2020
In case you weren't already aware, global restrictions continue to make traveling difficult. Consequently, major airlines have gone to some great lengths to incentivize people to book flights again. Taking a note from British Airways, AA is back with another offering intended for its most loyal travelers. Targeted AAdvantage members can earn double Million Miler qualifying miles for all flights through the end of the year.
Book American Airlines Flagship First Class From Just 33K Miles Each Way!
Like many involved in this hobby, we like to scout for premium award availability from time to time. You know… just to see what's out there. Recently, this led to the discovery of widespread AA Flagship First availability—with Web Special pricing as low as 55K miles. Now, we are finding even more premium-class availability with even better pricing! AAdvantage members can currently book trips to London, Sao Paulo, and more in AA Flagship First starting at only 55,000 AA miles.
13 Airline, Hotel Programs That Have Still Paused Point Expiration Due to COVID-19
When the COVID-19 pandemic brought most travel to standstill, many airline and hotel programs paused point expiration. This was a relief for travelers worried that a lack of activity could lead to losing large sums of points. However, as more people are traveling these days, airline and hotel loyalty programs are resuming normal expiration policies. Here is the latest information on point expiration rules related to COVID-19.
Earn up to 10x Points With New Chase Sapphire Bonus Categories
Right on the heels of Chase's new ‘Pay Yourself Back' feature, Chase is back with even more changes designed to align card benefits with current spending trends. Starting July 1st, Chase will offer several new bonus categories for Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders. Cardholders will earn bonus points on gas stations, online streaming services, and Instacart grocery delivery service.
Marriott Makes 5,500+ Properties Available at Off Peak Pricing, Gifting Bonus Elite Night Credits
UPDATE: The booking window for off-peak pricing has closed. In a customer-friendly move, Marriott just announced more program updates to encourage Bonvoy members to travel again. For a limited time, Marriott will make over 5,500 properties available at only off-peak award prices. Also, Bonvoy members who earned elite status in 2019 will be gifted additional elite night credits.
Fly to Europe in 2021 in Polaris Business Class for Just 45,000 Miles
The AwardWallet team has been scouting for premium cabin award deals while we wait for travel restrictions to lift. Late last month we stumbled across a bunch of Delta One availability. This month, we've found wide-open business class availability to European routes operated by United. Even better, a lot of the availability we're seeing is bookable with Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles.
Emirates Skywards Slashes Award Fees by Over 90%
Emirates is consistently ranked among the best airlines in the sky, and with good reason. Between the glitzy cabin decor, the onboard showers, and fantastic in-flight service, its premium cabin product has long been the poster-child of first-class travel. Unfortunately, this first-class experience comes at a significant price, even for award redemptions.
You Can Now Use AAdvantage Miles to Pay for Seat Reservations on American Airlines
American Airlines has started rolling out a new way for AAdvantage members to redeem miles. As American Airlines confirmed to AwardWallet this afternoon, AAdvantage members can now use their miles to purchase seat reservations on select routes. Key Terms Here's what we were able to confirm with an American Airlines spokesperson: Starting May 19, 2020, AA customers can purchase seats using miles. This option is only available on AA.com when viewing a ticketed reservation in your AAdvantage account.
Last Chance to Transfer Your Miles: Capital One Losing Two Transfer Partners
Capital One has quietly shared—via the transfer miles page—that two loyalty programs are leaving the Capital One Miles transfer program on May 13, 2020. After today, cardholders will no longer be able to transfer miles to Hainan Airways Fortune Wings Club and Qatar Airways Privilege Club. This was first caught by Doctor of Credit today, meaning cardholders are getting almost no notice before this change.
A Comprehensive Guide to All Credit Card Benefits, Changes Due to COVID-19
With virtually all of our recent posts consisting of program updates, benefit changes, and status extensions (oh my!), it's getting a little hard to keep up. We thought it might make things easier to have a place where you can find all of the changes that major card-issuers have made in response to COVID-19. If more changes are announced—and we can be sure that there will be—we will update this post to include them.
Incredible Deal: Book AA International Flagship First Awards Starting at Only 55k Miles
As we dream of starting to travel again, the AwardWallet team started looking around for premium cabin deals. And we were blown away by what we found. Every American Airlines international first-class route that we checked is currently offering excellent Web Special pricing. You can jet off to Tokyo, Hong Kong, London, São Paulo, and more in AA's best-available product for as little as 55,000 AAdvantage miles each way.
Delta Extends Elite Status, Sky Club Memberships, Credit Card Benefits Due to COVID-19
On Sunday, Delta announced that it will be extending elite status for all Delta Medallion members in response to COVID-19, becoming the first US-based airline to do so. This announcement also comes with the extension of a slew of additional perks and benefits. Elite Status The most significant aspect of this announcement is an automatic 12-month extension of Delta Medallion Status. All 2020 Delta Medallion members will retain their status for the 2021 Medallion year.
Airline, Hotel Programs Begin Limiting Non-Travel Redemption Options
Three loyalty programs have now suspended the ability to redeem their currencies for most non-travel-related points redemptions. Delta, Southwest, and Best Western have temporarily halted these types of offerings for the foreseeable future due to circumstances resulting from COVID-19. Redemptions like these are usually some of the worst values for your points/miles. However, they are convenient for anyone wanting to cash out—especially during a time of need.
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