{"id":1602,"date":"2026-02-21T05:16:47","date_gmt":"2026-02-21T05:16:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/?p=1602"},"modified":"2026-02-24T14:46:46","modified_gmt":"2026-02-24T14:46:46","slug":"what-is-award-travel-and-how-does-it-work","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/what-is-award-travel-and-how-does-it-work\/","title":{"rendered":"WHAT IS AWARD TRAVEL? And How Does it Work?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019re here because you&#8217;ve already heard of <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award travel<\/a>. So let&#8217;s skip the fancy introduction and cut to the chase. What is award travel? Why is it popular? How does it benefit me? Why is it complicated? How do I start with this?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read this blog, and you will have answers to all of this and beyond.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imagine your dream destination. Or better yet, imagine all of them. As many have already experienced, travel can be insanely expensive. What if I told you that you could visit all of them for free! And that too in business and first class? This is what <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award travel offers<\/a>. With little to no charge you can <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">travel with \u2018points and miles\u2019<\/a> through strategic partnerships. Let&#8217;s break it down. Points and miles are the key factors that unlock award travel. But what is award travel?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h5>Table of Contents<\/h5><nav><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#what-is-award-travel\">What is Award Travel?<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#how-award-travel-makes-business-sense\">How Award TravelMakes Business Sense?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#how-award-travel-works\">How Award TravelWorks?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#part-1-how-to-earn-points-and-miles\">Part 1: How To Earn Points and Miles<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#part-2-how-to-redeem-points\">Part 2: How To Redeem Points<\/a><ul><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#common-beginner-mistakes-award-travellers-make\">Common Beginner Mistakes Award Travellers Make<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#how-flightpoints-helps-simplify-award-travel\">How FlightpointsHelps Simplify Award Travel<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#is-award-travel-really-worth-it\">Is Award Travel Really Worth It?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fp-callout\">\n  <h4>In this blog, you will learn:<\/h4>\n\n  <ul>\n    <li>\n      <strong>What award travel actually means<\/strong> and how it can unlock\n      incredible travel experiences using points and miles instead of cash,\n      including premium cabins through smart redemptions.\n    <\/li>\n\n    <li>\n      <strong>Different types of loyalty points<\/strong> required for award\n      travel, and how each type plays a role in booking flights with points.\n    <\/li>\n\n    <li>\n      <strong>How to earn miles and points<\/strong>, including travel credit\n      cards, flying, hotel stays, and partner spending opportunities.\n    <\/li>\n\n    <li>\n      <strong>Pro tips to accumulate points faster<\/strong>, such as maximizing\n      sign-up bonuses and leveraging bonus categories effectively.\n    <\/li>\n\n    <li>\n      <strong>Where and how to redeem points<\/strong> for award travel, covering\n      airline programs, transfer partners, travel portals, and award search\n      tools.\n    <\/li>\n\n    <li>\n      <strong>Airline alliances explained simply<\/strong>, and how they expand\n      redemption options even when airlines aren\u2019t direct partners.\n    <\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-award-travel\"><strong>What is <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\"><strong>Award Travel<\/strong><\/a>?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1638\" srcset=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-2048x1152.png 2048w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-400x225.png 400w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-800x450.png 800w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-832x468.png 832w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-1664x936.png 1664w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-1248x702.png 1248w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1-1320x743.png 1320w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-1.png 2240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Booking flights using points, miles, or loyalty programs instead of cash is called <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award travel<\/a>. The secret lies in earning points and then converting it to miles with the right planning and goals. These points and miles can be earned through credit card spending and other reward programs. Award travel exists as a marketing strategy to value consistent customers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"how-award-travel-makes-business-sense\"><strong>How <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\"><strong>Award Travel<\/strong><\/a><strong> Makes Business Sense?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You might be wondering why airlines would offer a completely free program that doesn&#8217;t have any profit. On the contrary, award travel is one of the biggest revenue generators for airlines and travel credit cards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Airlines earn a significant revenue by selling miles to credit-card issuers, banks, and partners. It is often 1-2 cents per mile, making this a multi-billion dollar revenue stream.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Award travel seats fill in the unsold tickets without losing its price value while still building brand loyalty. This way airlines monetize excess capacity without diluting cash fares.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\" id=\"how-award-travel-works\"><strong>How <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\"><strong>Award Travel<\/strong><\/a><strong> Works?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A simple breakdown:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Earn points &#8211; Transfer to airline miles &#8211; Find award availability &#8211; Book<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"part-1-how-to-earn-points-and-miles\"><strong>Part 1: How To Earn Points and Miles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Points and miles are loyalty currencies that can be earned by participating in reward programs offered by airlines, hotels, and other travel related companies. There are many ways to earn these points (which will be explained later). But once earned, points can be used to <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">redeem flight tickets<\/a>, hotels, and more called \u201caward travel\u201d. There are 4 types of points:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"581\" height=\"624\" src=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2-edited.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1609\" srcset=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2-edited.png 581w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2-edited-279x300.png 279w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2-edited-400x430.png 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 581px) 100vw, 581px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Airline Miles<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the name suggests, airline miles are reward points specific to airlines that you can redeem for flights. To acquire miles you have to join an airline loyalty program called Frequent Flyer Membership. Each airline has their own FFP and they are free memberships!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, join an FFP and simply enter the membership number while booking your ticket to fly with miles instead of cash.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t worry if you don&#8217;t have miles of other airlines when you have to fly on different airlines. <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/airline-alliances-explained-star-skyteam-oneworld\/\">Airlines alliances<\/a> allow you to book flights on other airlines within the same alliance. For example, you can use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwj7udPYxM6SAxXvwzwCHeFdJDwYACICCAEQABoCc2Y&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAy6vMBhDCARIsAK8rOgkRXOOHcD-Vf4DzKHvvSSgfylKC-X_kNN46n2z_K0oVGYxoRZi1-UMaAshxEALw_wcB&amp;ei=bPCKadCkHo_jseMPpruQkQo&amp;cid=CAASWuRohdAlTcrcaVrU-3WX_5wYIKTg-OANI48j7amHviI5HVRp_DkYda01xoQzl_yr72llyQW1cs8MhA4Pev9uCdKqqvZRxvkzyeoOcn7_Bpyn9rONV6HX2yf0Zg&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_3VJyfGCIKf3BFtUHQSSVkZL5ygzQ&amp;q&amp;sqi=2&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQis7YxM6SAxWPcWwGHaYdJKIQ0Qx6BAgLEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Airlines<\/a> miles to book a flight on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwjAlJzmxM6SAxUVpGYCHQbYAM4YACICCAEQABoCc20&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAy6vMBhDCARIsAK8rOglnJ5THSgXv9FpBWAMj7e3Fw4iL6g-0-xUabvAhl2P8Sp8EQQ6IWK8aAjM_EALw_wcB&amp;cid=CAASWuRofyI-iEXtxEsrxu1Q4kXhz1Yw0ql7G2jsFC4uKWiJP9Z5Dre_qkSBOKKqVIC-iATAuNxowCGE07_1aYXFpS_QOhgqoqmlpmSDxgBK3xP5z10XUP44QxxZuA&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_3n_tq0Sl3aQx4tfJQzFAioh-mhMQ&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi4v5bmxM6SAxUaRmwGHQ5qNaQQ0Qx6BAg2EAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">British Airways<\/a> because it falls under the same airline alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/airline-alliances-explained-star-skyteam-oneworld\/\">Airline alliances<\/a> are strategic partnerships among airlines to create better connection and smooth coordination. Alliances let you earn and redeem miles across all airlines in the same alliance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-default is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\" id=\"there-are-three-major-alliances\">There are three major alliances:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.staralliance.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Star Alliance<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.oneworld.com\/members\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Oneworld<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skyteam.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SkyTeam<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fp-alliance-box\">\n  <h3>Star Alliance <span>(26 members)<\/span><\/h3>\n  <p>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/en.aegeanair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Aegean Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aircanada.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Air Canada<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.airchina.com.cn\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Air China<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.airindia.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Air India<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.airnewzealand.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Air New Zealand<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ana.co.jp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">All Nippon Airways (ANA)<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/flyasiana.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Asiana Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.austrian.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Austrian Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.avianca.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Avianca<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brusselsairlines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Brussels Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.copaair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Copa Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.croatiaairlines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Croatia Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.egyptair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">EgyptAir<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ethiopianairlines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ethiopian Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.evaair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">EVA Air<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lot.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LOT Polish Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lufthansa.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lufthansa<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singaporeair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Singapore Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flysaa.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South African Airways<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.swiss.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SWISS<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flytap.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TAP Air Portugal<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thaiairways.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thai Airways<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.turkishairlines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Turkish Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.united.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">United Airlines<\/a>\n  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"fp-alliance-box\">\n  <h3>Oneworld <span>(15 members)<\/span><\/h3>\n  <p>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alaskaair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alaska Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aa.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britishairways.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">British Airways<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cathaypacific.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cathay Pacific<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finnair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Finnair<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fijiairways.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fiji Airways<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iberia.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Iberia<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jal.co.jp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Japan Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.malaysiaairlines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Malaysia Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.omanair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Oman Air<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.qantas.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Qantas<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.qatarairways.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Qatar Airways<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flyroyalairmaroc.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Royal Air Maroc<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rj.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Royal Jordanian<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hawaiianairlines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hawaiian Airlines<\/a>\n  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"fp-alliance-box\">\n  <h3>SkyTeam <span>(19 members)<\/span><\/h3>\n  <p>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aerolineas.com.ar\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Aerol\u00edneas Argentinas<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aeromexico.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Aerom\u00e9xico<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aireuropa.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Air Europa<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.airfrance.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Air France<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.china-airlines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">China Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ceair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">China Eastern<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.delta.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Delta Air Lines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.garuda-indonesia.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Garuda Indonesia<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kenya-airways.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kenya Airways<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.klm.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">KLM<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.koreanair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Korean Air<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mea.com.lb\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Middle East Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.saudia.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Saudia<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flysas.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tarom.ro\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TAROM<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vietnamairlines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vietnam Airlines<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.virginatlantic.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Virgin Atlantic<\/a>,\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.xiamenair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">XiamenAir<\/a>\n  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Hotel Points<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again as the name suggests, hotel points are reward points you can earn through hotel stays, by using the hotel partner services, and through co-branded credit cards. This requires membership in the hotel\u2019s loyalty program which is free. The points earned from stays can be used for flights (by transferring points to miles), free stays, room upgrades, late check-outs and other travel perks. These points will be stored in your hotel membership account. Some popular hotel programs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwilmpDVt9OSAxV_yDwCHch7EG0YACICCAEQABoCc2Y&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA7rDMBhCjARIsAGDBuEBlHvyB91u5fzCC2KP36qfhLYTsSBxAEwR199iy-HOHPAHNyUjtVTQaAg_QEALw_wcB&amp;ei=2oGNae-qCLSuwcsPu6uVoAw&amp;cid=CAASWuRo1jKfp9T-XmSH-zTVm4wHiIfpjdVxGMi3d1T0AGUTHV8-BAhnOsrFRut7GKcbmKN-3lu-Io7l_dvRIXryk6r1VRZleFHAKS9dDrPImetmrFsgF-kPP536Jw&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_1OrUUrjR6_IgAAPHqi8rKC1N45BA&amp;q&amp;sqi=2&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjv_4rVt9OSAxU0V3ADHbtVBcQQ0Qx6BAgREAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Marriott Bonvoy<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwjQx87kt9OSAxUtpWYCHS3BFM4YACICCAEQABoCc20&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA7rDMBhCjARIsAGDBuEAjhsft1dK8ts373zDZOIQvgwlI23bc7jtsst_SnGhP8METpB1Gp4IaAtizEALw_wcB&amp;cid=CAASWuRo9ugZ3ELl5P0k3FP3ayWvTpzKajH3mnBpb3LnsQD3LI_WftH-YGwYy7ju6C0paqCBUHBeNdVhzYqdqayoURgpOw-0JJAnnHbcYYv_A064p97VK6UnReYa6w&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_1XhEZJ3oQ82oY-dJ64MP2ZAipscg&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjCpcjkt9OSAxWiSmwGHXfGFD4Q0Qx6BAgMEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hilton Honors<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/world.hyatt.com\/content\/gp\/en\/program-overview.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">World of Hyatt<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ihg.com\/onerewards\/content\/us\/en\/home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IHG One Rewards<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Transferable Points<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Transferable points are points earned through credit card reward programs and can be transferred for airline miles or hotel rewards. You can earn these points through sign-up bonuses and credit card spending.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/creditcards.chase.com\/rewards-credit-cards\/sapphire\/preferred\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chase Sapphire Preferred<\/a> earns points called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chase.com\/personal\/credit-cards\/ultimate-rewards\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ultimate Rewards<\/a>. These points can be transferred to major airlines and hotel chains. (credit cards partner with these programs)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Transferable points are the most flexible type of rewards because they allow you to choose where to spend your points based on your requirements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Fixed Value Points<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fixed value points are credit card reward points that have a fixed pre-decided cash value. For example, 1 point=1 cent. So 10,000 will be $100 dollars. Unlike transferable points, the value of these points do not change based on where you redeem them because fixed value points have a fixed value that is directly converted to cash.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.capitalone.com\/credit-cards\/venture-x\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Capital One venture X card<\/a>, you can earn <a href=\"https:\/\/www.capitalone.com\/credit-cards\/venture-x\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Venture rewards miles<\/a> and use them for travel, car rentals, and stays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These four categories of points can be used for a lot of benefits ranging from flight tickets, hotel stays, car rentals, cruises, dining, and much more. But here, we are going to focus on flight tickets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now that you have an idea of the different types of points that can be earned, how do you start earning them? First off, to earn points you need a credit card. Points wouldn&#8217;t make sense if you don&#8217;t have the right card.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"how-to-find-the-right-credit-card\"><strong>How to Find The Right Credit Card?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-1024x576.png\" alt=\"flightpoint- how to choose the best credit card \" class=\"wp-image-1640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-2048x1152.png 2048w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-400x225.png 400w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-800x450.png 800w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-832x468.png 832w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-1664x936.png 1664w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-1248x702.png 1248w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3-1320x743.png 1320w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Minimal-Photocentric-Productivity-Blog-Banner-3.png 2240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With hundreds of options available today, it is really hard to find which ones are genuine. This section will share some crucial tips to consider before applying for a credit card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Credit Score<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Credit score is an important factor. If you don&#8217;t have a good enough credit score, some banks might deny your application. So before applying, do a simple and quick research on the minimum level credit score requirement. It is also wise to check your credit score regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Number of Credit Cards Opened<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Certain banks pay very close attention to how many cards you have already opened, and how recently you&#8217;ve opened them. Applications might get denied regardless of your points based on this history of opening cards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Types of Points<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Compare the value of points before signing up for the credit card. At first glance, you might only notice the cards and their welcome bonuses. But make sure to do a quick research on how much the points are worth in cash, as the value differs across programs. However, this could also depend on your travel goals. If you have a clean plan, choose the card that suits your travel based on the airlines you are going to fly with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Annual Fee<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Credit cards come with an annual fee. Consider whether this fee is worth the benefits or not.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"how-to-start-earning-points\"><strong>How To Start Earning Points?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Welcome Bonuses<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best and easiest way to start earning points is by choosing a credit card that offers a welcome bonus. Welcome bonuses are programs offered by credit card companies to attract customers to apply for their cards. For example, some credit cards offer 60,000-100,000 points within the first three months of opening an account if you meet the minimum spending requirement, which could range from $4,000-6,000.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Exciting tip: In most cases, this welcome bonus would be sufficient for a round trip from the US to Europe. However, do not get carried away spending the money you don&#8217;t have, and avoid unnecessary spending just to gain points. This will only result in losses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>General Spending<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These days, almost any purchase you make can earn you points. Furthermore, some places offer you bonus points. Certain restaurants or stores offer bonus points, which means you can earn extra points on every swipe you make at these places. This varies across different loyalty programs and credit cards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Travel Portals&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Travel credit cards will have their own travel portals. Booking your travel plans through the credit card\u2019s travel portal can earn you additional points.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shopping Portals<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many rewards programs give extra points through online shopping portals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><em>Pro tip 1: You can earn points through creative strategies. Such as paying large expenses through credit cards. Like painting your house, rents, furniture purchase, etc.&nbsp;<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><em>Pro tip 2: If you have business travels, instead of the company directly giving you the ticket, ask them to reimburse you. This way you pay for the ticket through your credit card and earn points.&nbsp;<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><em>Pro tip 3: Before you start booking and planning your award travel using <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\"><em>award search tools<\/em><\/a><em>, set a goal. Decide where you want to go, where you want to stay, and which class you want to fly and all of it. This will help you choose the right card and the right airline loyalty program (called frequent flyer program).&nbsp;<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"part-2-how-to-redeem-points\"><strong>Part 2: How To Redeem Points<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The whole point of earning points is to use them. Don&#8217;t save your points for some really far time in the future (unless you are planning a really large trip\/vacation). The value of points keeps fluctuating, so start using them before they lose their worth. In some cases, points also expire after 18-24 months of inactivity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"redeem-for-flights\"><strong>Redeem for Flights<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most basic way to <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">redeem points<\/a> is to use them for flights and hotels. But here, let\u2019s concentrate on the flights. For this, of course, you have to sign up for an airline loyalty program called <strong>Frequent Flyer Membership<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just go for the loyalty program of the airline you fly with most frequently.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you have a frequent flyer membership (which is free), it is time for you to start award travelling. If you have an exact plan in mind, you can directly go to the airline\u2019s website and search for award availability to your desired destination. On the other hand, you have the points and now are looking for cost-effective travel options, just sign up for an <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award search tool<\/a>. This is the <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">fastest and easiest way to start award travel<\/a>. With <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">the best award search tool<\/a> you can eliminate the unending searches across many airlines and find all the deals on a single platform.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Please keep in mind that you would still have to pay a small amount as fuel surcharges and tax. This varies across airlines.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"credit-card-travel-partners\"><strong>Credit Card Travel Partners<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another option is redeeming points on your credit card\u2019s travel portal. Just visit the credit card\u2019s travel portal and start booking there. You can redeem points to book flights and hotels here. And if you don&#8217;t have sufficient points, you can still pay the rest with cash.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cards like <a href=\"https:\/\/creditcards.chase.com\/rewards-credit-cards\/sapphire\/preferred\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chase Sapphire Preferred<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/creditcards.chase.com\/rewards-credit-cards\/sapphire\/reserve\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chase Sapphire Reserve<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/in\/charge-cards\/gold-card\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Express Gold<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card\/platinum\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Express Platinum<\/a>, or the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.capitalone.com\/credit-cards\/venture-x\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Capital Venture X<\/a> and many more can be used to transfer points to partner airlines and book flights directly using the points.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So for example, let\u2019s say you want to go to Singapore, but you don&#8217;t have <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singaporeair.com\/en_UK\/za\/ppsclub-krisflyer\/use-miles\/redeem-miles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Krisflyer miles<\/a> (Singapore Airline\u2019s Loyalty Program). But, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwjGy9eG89CSAxW0JYMDHSTNHpIYACICCAEQABoCc2Y&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAy6vMBhDCARIsAK8rOgn7H5fMLNeKXgIUvTLVVE1CD0CkgC4ij-_jFv0KJ2VlIpEzSRAt0b0aAt_xEALw_wcB&amp;cid=CAASWuRoe1jOTtO42iYQV28APdHaWvA8TJGeEMxNZMBGTT4xYxc_n-zHt--uCITa4Uu_3_RQJqpqsUKP1GjMVfBHrRR7EimneJbNVq45xe6Rtnht5eKwoawyJLzwgQ&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_0qTs5PVG1wfnl5F8ubdZ1yb28AVQ&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjllM-G89CSAxXYSmwGHY6tJfoQ0Qx6BAgVEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Singapore Airlines<\/a> is a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chase.com\/travel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chase travel partner<\/a>. Simply go to your Chase account and transfer points to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwjGy9eG89CSAxW0JYMDHSTNHpIYACICCAEQABoCc2Y&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAy6vMBhDCARIsAK8rOgn7H5fMLNeKXgIUvTLVVE1CD0CkgC4ij-_jFv0KJ2VlIpEzSRAt0b0aAt_xEALw_wcB&amp;cid=CAASWuRoe1jOTtO42iYQV28APdHaWvA8TJGeEMxNZMBGTT4xYxc_n-zHt--uCITa4Uu_3_RQJqpqsUKP1GjMVfBHrRR7EimneJbNVq45xe6Rtnht5eKwoawyJLzwgQ&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_0qTs5PVG1wfnl5F8ubdZ1yb28AVQ&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjllM-G89CSAxXYSmwGHY6tJfoQ0Qx6BAgVEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Singapore Airlines<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fp-callout\">\n  <h4>Important note:<\/h4>\n  <p>\n    <strong>\n      Make sure to check availability before transferring points. Transfers are irreversible, once they&#8217;re gone, they&#8217;re gone for good.\n    <\/strong>\n  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But what if the airline that you want to fly with is not your credit card\u2019s travel partner?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is again where <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/airline-alliances-explained-star-skyteam-oneworld\/\">airline alliances<\/a> come into use. You use airline alliances to travel in other partner airlines. To make it clear here&#8217;s an example:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s say you want to fly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwiCnPea4dOSAxWqqmYCHVAbDp0YACICCAEQARoCc20&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAkbbMBhB2EiwANbxtbWK4ZEF-snZ0rooL3dftfHpbNnUD-QsiP_DwioPegvlZds8h7gztxRoCA9cQAvD_BwE&amp;ei=aq2NaaisFfKTseMPuaCcmQ4&amp;cid=CAASWuRovM-iKuSbBjFjZqQwXSGbTtFpL9OM0uv0rCnYW-UIDhPoopFCM_BbN4H71hgj0GSDCuayk9gfxmrpElydFMLIJRNJoIDSyABVXuEC8NHbbgbHz1XI5Fw1Jw&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_3Aq37rKjQFCLHmz7PilKuE8UBIXQ&amp;q&amp;sqi=2&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwioifCa4dOSAxXySWwGHTkQJ-MQ0Qx6BAgwEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Qatar Airways<\/a> and your credit card does not transfer points to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwiCnPea4dOSAxWqqmYCHVAbDp0YACICCAEQARoCc20&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAkbbMBhB2EiwANbxtbWK4ZEF-snZ0rooL3dftfHpbNnUD-QsiP_DwioPegvlZds8h7gztxRoCA9cQAvD_BwE&amp;ei=aq2NaaisFfKTseMPuaCcmQ4&amp;cid=CAASWuRovM-iKuSbBjFjZqQwXSGbTtFpL9OM0uv0rCnYW-UIDhPoopFCM_BbN4H71hgj0GSDCuayk9gfxmrpElydFMLIJRNJoIDSyABVXuEC8NHbbgbHz1XI5Fw1Jw&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_3Aq37rKjQFCLHmz7PilKuE8UBIXQ&amp;q&amp;sqi=2&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwioifCa4dOSAxXySWwGHTkQJ-MQ0Qx6BAgwEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Qatar Airways<\/a> because it is not a travel partner on the credit card you signed up for. But, your card does transfer to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britishairways.com\/content\/the-british-airways-club\/avios\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">British Airways Avios<\/a>. Now both <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwiCnPea4dOSAxWqqmYCHVAbDp0YACICCAEQARoCc20&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAkbbMBhB2EiwANbxtbWK4ZEF-snZ0rooL3dftfHpbNnUD-QsiP_DwioPegvlZds8h7gztxRoCA9cQAvD_BwE&amp;ei=aq2NaaisFfKTseMPuaCcmQ4&amp;cid=CAASWuRovM-iKuSbBjFjZqQwXSGbTtFpL9OM0uv0rCnYW-UIDhPoopFCM_BbN4H71hgj0GSDCuayk9gfxmrpElydFMLIJRNJoIDSyABVXuEC8NHbbgbHz1XI5Fw1Jw&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_3Aq37rKjQFCLHmz7PilKuE8UBIXQ&amp;q&amp;sqi=2&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwioifCa4dOSAxXySWwGHTkQJ-MQ0Qx6BAgwEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Qatar Airways<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwj_hJnG4dOSAxUpqWYCHelRDE0YACICCAEQABoCc20&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAkbbMBhB2EiwANbxtbTPBdE2LU5wv3ftVGhfSkInoBRqtV36mrQ8Nkke4Zv7nfQsEZjX42RoCWDUQAvD_BwE&amp;cid=CAASWuRoiAxbaagh5Q2nUka6pSwLC4D4bktuGIU2Nbq_HDrZ7g6RvkFYWw4FlDM4kAxl56yqpcEabWOSJpd6_39X8elX4KlqjLNI_8vvzmt7dsPxsowpe-BPjLVysQ&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_1cUkplz495Vn95-OWS8iir-zQb2Q&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj_rJPG4dOSAxXxSnADHaB_MpMQ0Qx6BAgMEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">British Airways<\/a> belong to the same alliance, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.oneworld.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Oneworld<\/a>. So now you can transfer points to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britishairways.com\/content\/the-british-airways-club\/avios\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">British Airways Avios<\/a> and book <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwiCnPea4dOSAxWqqmYCHVAbDp0YACICCAEQARoCc20&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAkbbMBhB2EiwANbxtbWK4ZEF-snZ0rooL3dftfHpbNnUD-QsiP_DwioPegvlZds8h7gztxRoCA9cQAvD_BwE&amp;ei=aq2NaaisFfKTseMPuaCcmQ4&amp;cid=CAASWuRovM-iKuSbBjFjZqQwXSGbTtFpL9OM0uv0rCnYW-UIDhPoopFCM_BbN4H71hgj0GSDCuayk9gfxmrpElydFMLIJRNJoIDSyABVXuEC8NHbbgbHz1XI5Fw1Jw&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_3Aq37rKjQFCLHmz7PilKuE8UBIXQ&amp;q&amp;sqi=2&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwioifCa4dOSAxXySWwGHTkQJ-MQ0Qx6BAgwEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Qatar Airways flights<\/a> using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=L&amp;ai=DChsSEwj_hJnG4dOSAxUpqWYCHelRDE0YACICCAEQABoCc20&amp;ae=2&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAkbbMBhB2EiwANbxtbTPBdE2LU5wv3ftVGhfSkInoBRqtV36mrQ8Nkke4Zv7nfQsEZjX42RoCWDUQAvD_BwE&amp;cid=CAASWuRoiAxbaagh5Q2nUka6pSwLC4D4bktuGIU2Nbq_HDrZ7g6RvkFYWw4FlDM4kAxl56yqpcEabWOSJpd6_39X8elX4KlqjLNI_8vvzmt7dsPxsowpe-BPjLVysQ&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_71&amp;sig=AOD64_1cUkplz495Vn95-OWS8iir-zQb2Q&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj_rJPG4dOSAxXxSnADHaB_MpMQ0Qx6BAgMEAE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Avios<\/a>. See how alliances help you fly even without direct memberships?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/airline-alliances-explained-star-skyteam-oneworld\/\">blog on airline alliances to understand alliances deeply<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"common-beginner-mistakes-award-travellers-make\"><strong>Common Beginner Mistakes Award Travellers Make<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Transferring Points Before Checking Availability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the biggest mistakes beginners make while booking award tickets is transferring credit card points to an airline mile without checking seat availability. Once points are transferred, the process is usually irreversible and will be stuck in that airline program until it comes of use. Always make sure to <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/alerts\/create\">check award seat availability<\/a> before transferring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember, award seats come from a controlled inventory. Award seats may not be available even if the flight has empty seats. Award seats are released based on specific schedules and airline-set rules. Do not assume that transferring points faster will guarantee an award seat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"color:#0369a1;background-color:#e0f2fe\" class=\"wp-block-roelmagdaleno-callout-block has-text-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-roelmagdaleno-callout-block-is-layout-2c90304e wp-block-roelmagdaleno-callout-block-is-layout-flex\"><div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To avoid missing <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/how-airline-award-availability-really-works\/\">award seat availability<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/alerts\/create\">set and manage alerts on Flightpoints<\/a> to get real-time availability insights.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fp-action-box\">\n  <strong>Tip:<\/strong>\n  To avoid missing <a href=\"#\">award seat availability<\/a>, set and manage alerts on\n  <strong>Flightpoints<\/strong> for real-time availability insights.\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Using Travel Portals Blindly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As mentioned in the above section, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/alerts\/create\">redeem points<\/a> using credit card travel portals. However, people often make the mistake of booking without comparing the value with airline programs. Travel portals usually offer a fixed value redemption while transferring points to airline programs would require much fewer points than the portals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Method<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Best For<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Value<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Portal booking<\/td><td>Simplicity<\/td><td>Low<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Airline transfer<\/td><td>Premium flights<\/td><td>High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fixed value<\/td><td>Budget travel<\/td><td>Medium<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ignoring Fuel Surcharges<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beginners often think <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award travel tickets<\/a> are completely free and then get surprised at the checkout. Some airlines have high fuel surcharges and some have comparatively lower charges, while some rare airlines avoid them altogether.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding which programs cost lower fuel charges can significantly save lots of money. <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">Sign up to Flightpoints<\/a> to view all the extra money it would cost for every program and award ticket.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hoarding Points For Too Long<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is always better to start earning points with a goal in mind. Airlines usually start to devalue points over time and increase the number of points required for award travel. So, holding onto points for years could lose its worth.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"how-flightpoints-helps-simplify-award-travel\"><strong>How <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\"><strong>Flightpoints<\/strong><\/a><strong> Helps <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\"><strong>Simplify Award Travel<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Though <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award travel<\/a> sounds exciting, <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">booking an award ticket<\/a> is not always simple (it is, we\u2019re getting there). Unlike actual tickets, award tickets depend on <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/what-is-award-seat-availability-and-why-its-so-hard-to-find\/\">availability<\/a>, partner access, and miles which varies across airlines and loyalty programs. This is where an <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award search tool<\/a> becomes relevant.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s a step-by-step breakdown of how <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">Flightpoints streamline your award travel<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"913\" height=\"679\" src=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-7-edited.png\" alt=\"flightpoint - award travel search tool benefits \" class=\"wp-image-1611\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-7-edited.png 913w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-7-edited-300x223.png 300w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-7-edited-768x571.png 768w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-7-edited-400x297.png 400w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-7-edited-800x595.png 800w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-7-edited-832x619.png 832w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 913px) 100vw, 913px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"step-1-search\"><strong>Step 1: Search<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Enter your departure and arrival destinations in the homepage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"463\" src=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-1024x463.png\" alt=\"homepage - flightpoints\" class=\"wp-image-1607\" srcset=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-1024x463.png 1024w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-300x136.png 300w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-768x347.png 768w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-1536x694.png 1536w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-400x181.png 400w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-800x362.png 800w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-832x376.png 832w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-1248x564.png 1248w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6-1320x596.png 1320w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-6.png 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"step-2-book\"><strong>Step 2: Book<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"441\" src=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-1024x441.png\" alt=\"flightpoints- booking page \" class=\"wp-image-1604\" srcset=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-1024x441.png 1024w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-300x129.png 300w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-768x331.png 768w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-1536x661.png 1536w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-400x172.png 400w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-800x345.png 800w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-832x358.png 832w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-1248x537.png 1248w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3-1320x568.png 1320w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-3.png 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">Flightpoints<\/a> will display all the available flights and price in points+tax\/other fees.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The user is then directed to the airline\u2019s official website to complete the booking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"484\" src=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-1024x484.png\" alt=\"flightpoint- complete the booking:\" class=\"wp-image-1605\" srcset=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-1024x484.png 1024w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-300x142.png 300w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-768x363.png 768w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-1536x726.png 1536w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-400x189.png 400w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-800x378.png 800w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-832x393.png 832w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-1248x590.png 1248w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4-1320x624.png 1320w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-4.png 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you can see here, <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">Flightpoints<\/a> provides a &#8220;Price Drop Alert\u201d feature. With this, you get real-time alerts if the price drops on your selected flights. This eliminates the need to keep visiting websites to search for better prices. <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">Flightpoints<\/a> will notify you whenever there is a price drop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, say that you have some points, and want to explore the options of where these points can be put to use. Just go to the \u201cExplore\u201d tab and select your loyalty program and <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">Flightpoints<\/a> will show you plans across many airlines.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"467\" src=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-1024x467.png\" alt=\"flightpoint - page \" class=\"wp-image-1606\" srcset=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-1024x467.png 1024w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-300x137.png 300w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-768x350.png 768w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-1536x701.png 1536w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-400x183.png 400w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-800x365.png 800w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-832x380.png 832w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-1248x569.png 1248w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5-1320x602.png 1320w, https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-5.png 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unlock pro-features to make your <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award search<\/a> quick and easier by signing in now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"is-award-travel-really-worth-it\"><strong>Is Award Travel Really Worth It?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award travel<\/a> is worth it especially if you use points strategically. When earned and redeemed properly, award travel can unlock flight tickets that would otherwise be very expensive, especially first and business class. Travellers get far better value off of long international routes than travel portals. It also allows frequent travel, class upgrades, and many more travel perks like priority check-ins.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With that being said, the value also depends on how you earn and redeem. Poor redemptions, high fuel surcharges, and low-value travel portals can reduce the benefits. It also requires date flexibility and early planning to find the <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">right deal for award travel<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"conclusion\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This completes the basics of award travel. Keeping these in mind, you are all set to begin your journey, no, begin your <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award travel<\/a> journey. Just to sum up, here are key things to remember:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Earn points through travel credit cards and strategic spending.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transfer them to airline partners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Look for availability and sweet spots.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">award search tools that simplify award travel<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sign up for <a href=\"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/\">Flightpoints and start exploring the best redemption opportunities<\/a> across multiple airlines and loyalty programs.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1771578269834\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Do all airlines charge the same miles for the same routes?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No, mileage pricing varies across airlines and alliance partnerships.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1771578280848\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>What are fuel surcharges on award tickets?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Fuel surcharges are additional cash fees some airlines add to award tickets. They can significantly increase the cost despite using points.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1771578295672\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can I book an airline using another airline\u2019s miles?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, through airline alliances and partner agreements you can redeem miles from one airline to another within the same network.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1771578314254\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can I cancel or change award tickets?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>It depends on the airline program. Some allow changes and cancellations for a small fee or mileage penalty.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1771578400718\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>How many points do you need for an award flight?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The number of points required depends on the airline, route, class, and loyalty programs. However, economy flights may start from 10,000-30,000 points, while business class can require 50,000-100,000 points.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1771578633745\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Is business class worth booking with points?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes! Business class redemptions often give the highest value per point compared to economy and portal bookings.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1771578649299\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Can beginners start award travelling without frequently flying?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, most beginners earn points primarily through travel credit cards and everyday spending rather than frequent flying.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1771578672513\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h2 class=\"rank-math-question \"><strong>Are last minute bookings possible for award flights?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes. Some airlines release unsold premium seats close to departure. But availability isn&#8217;t guaranteed.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"You\u2019re here because you&#8217;ve already heard of award travel. So let&#8217;s skip the fancy introduction and cut to&hellip;","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1614,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","csco_page_load_nextpost":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[22],"tags":[16,33,32,43,35],"class_list":["post-1602","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-award-travel-basics","tag-flightpoints","tag-how-do-airline-alliances-work","tag-what-are-airline-alliances","tag-what-is-award-travel-and-how-does-it-work","tag-what-is-stopover-in-award-travel","cs-entry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1602","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1602"}],"version-history":[{"count":35,"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1602\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1715,"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1602\/revisions\/1715"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1614"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1602"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1602"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/flightpoints.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1602"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}