POINTS 101: How to Maximize Your Travel Rewards for Hotels and Airlines

If you love to travel but hate overspending, travel points can be your secret weapon. From free hotel stays to first class flights, loyalty programs and credit card points can turn everyday spending into unforgettable adventures. The trick? Knowing how to maximize them. And if you travel for work, you can turn those work trips into a travel advantage. Welcome to POINTS 101, your crash course in making the most of your rewards.

Start with the Right Loyalty Programs

Not all programs are created equal. Pick hotel chains and airlines that align with how (and where) you travel most.

• Airlines: Consider major alliances like Oneworld, SkyTeam, or Star Alliance. A single membership in one airline’s program can unlock benefits across partner airlines worldwide.

• Hotels: Programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and World of Hyatt often provide free nights, upgrades, and perks even on your first redemption.

Personally, for over 20 years, I’ve personally maximized my travel by staying loyal to Delta Airlines and Marriott Hotels. This long term commitment has allowed me to consistently enjoy elite status perks, from complimentary upgrades to early boarding and lounge access.

Pro tip: Focus on one or two primary programs so you can accumulate meaningful rewards faster instead of spreading points too thin.

Use the Right Credit Cards

Travel credit cards are the fastest way to earn points. Look for cards that:

• Offer a big welcome bonus after you meet the minimum spend.

• Give bonus categories like 3 to 5x points on travel, dining, or groceries.

• Have transfer partners so you can move points to airlines or hotels for maximum flexibility.

As I primarily fly with Delta, I pair my loyalty with the American Express Platinum Card and Delta Reserve Card. This has taken my rewards game to the next level, offering not only accelerated points earning but also access to Delta Sky Clubs, annual companion certificates, TSA fees, Clear fees, and statement credits that offset travel costs. Through this combination, I’ve been able to turn routine business and leisure travel into a steady stream of free flights, luxury hotel stays, and elevated travel experiences.

Pro tip: Many premium cards also come with perks like airport lounge access, free checked bags, and annual travel credits, all of which save money on every trip. Get the right card for your situation!

Transfer Points for Maximum Value

One of the best-kept secrets is point transfers. Instead of redeeming points directly for travel through your credit card’s portal (which often gives you a fixed value), transfer them to airline or hotel partners.

• Example: 60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points could get you a $750 flight booked through the portal, but transferred to United Airlines, they might unlock a $1,200 business class ticket.

Pro tip: Always check award availability before transferring, transfers are usually irreversible.

Redeem Strategically

Not all redemptions are equal. Aim for high-value redemptions where each point is worth more than 1–1.5 cents.

• Avoid: Using points for gift cards, merchandise, or cash back (low value).

• Best Use: Long haul international flights, premium cabins, or luxury hotels during peak seasons.

Pro tip: Use tools like Award Hacker or Point.Me to compare the best redemptions for your points.

Take Advantage of Off Peak Awards

Most airlines and hotel chains use dynamic pricing, meaning the same trip can cost drastically different points depending on when you book.

• Hotels: Book during shoulder seasons for lower award rates.

• Airlines: Midweek flights usually cost fewer miles than weekend departures.

Pro tip: Flexibility is your best friend, shifting your trip by a day or two can save thousands of points.

Don’t Forget Elite Status Perks

Beyond free nights and flights, loyalty programs often reward frequent travelers with elite status, unlocking:

• Free upgrades to better rooms or premium cabins.

• Complimentary breakfast, late checkout, or lounge access.

• Priority boarding and free checked bags.

Pro tip: Some travel credit cards grant automatic elite status, worth considering even if you don’t travel often.

Keep Your Points from Expiring

Points can vanish if you’re not careful. Most programs reset the expiration clock with any earning or redeeming activity.

Easy ways to keep them alive:

• Use your travel credit card for a small purchase.

• Transfer points in from a partner program.

• Book (or even cancel) a small reward redemption.

Final Takeaway

Maximizing travel points isn’t about traveling constantly, it’s about being strategic. By joining the right programs, using credit cards wisely, transferring points for maximum value, and redeeming strategically, you can stretch every point into unforgettable travel experiences.

Ready to start your points journey? Focus on one or two programs, grab a travel rewards card, and you’ll be well on your way to flying farther and staying longer, for less.