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Writer's pictureCalvin Tjok

How to Maximize Your Credit Card Points

Credit card points are a popular way for consumers to earn rewards for their spending. These points can be earned through a variety of credit card rewards programs, and can be used in a number of ways to get value out of your rewards. In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to use credit card points.


The Most Recommended: One of the best ways to use credit card points is to redeem them for travel-related expenses. Many credit card rewards programs offer the ability to redeem points for flights, hotel stays, and car rentals. This can be a great way to save money on your travel expenses, as the value of points can often be higher when redeemed for travel than when redeemed for other rewards. Additionally, many credit card rewards programs offer transfer partners, which allows you to transfer your points to various airline and hotel loyalty programs, giving you even more options for redeeming your points for travel.


How to get outsized value for your credit card points:


To use credit card points and transfer partners to get outsized value, you should first research the different rewards programs and credit cards available to you. Look for cards that offer generous sign-up bonuses and rewards for the types of purchases you make most often. Once you have a rewards card, make sure to use it for your purchases to earn points as quickly as possible.


Next, research the transfer partners associated with your card's rewards program. These are typically other loyalty programs that you can transfer your credit card points to, such as airline or hotel loyalty programs. Look for transfer partners that have valuable redemption options, such as a low number of points needed for a free flight or hotel stay.


Here are some of my favorite airlines to transfer to:

  • Delta Airlines - Great for easy domestic travel with deals as low as 5,000 points round trip. 1 point = 1.5 cents*

  • Aeroplan - Great for international travel including business and first class with a fixed taxes & fees that helps lower fuel surcharge. 1 point = 2.23 cents*

  • Hyatt Hotels - Hyatt has a large footprint with set priced redemptions based off hotel category. Hyatt points are worth about 1 point = 2.8 cents*

*YMMV (Your mileage may vary)


When you have accumulated a sufficient number of points, transfer them to a transfer partner and redeem them for a valuable reward. Keep in mind that transfer ratios and transfer fees vary, so make sure to compare different transfer options to get the most value for your points.


Also, keep an eye on the expiration dates of your points and make sure to use them before they expire. Some credit card rewards programs also have limits on how long you have to use your points once you transfer them to a partner.

Finally, be sure to pay off your credit card balance in full each month to avoid paying interest charges, which can negate the value of your rewards.


If you don't prefer traveling here are some other options: Another great way to use credit card points is to redeem them for cash back or statement credit. Many rewards programs offer the ability to redeem points for cash back or statement credit, which can be a great way to offset the cost of everyday expenses. This can be particularly useful for those who do not travel frequently or do not want to redeem their points for travel-related expenses.

Some credit card rewards programs also offer the ability to redeem points for merchandise or gift cards. This can be a great way to get value out of your rewards if you prefer to redeem your points for something tangible. Some credit card rewards programs also offer exclusive experiences such as VIP access to events, early access to concert tickets, and more. Finally, it's important to note that some credit card rewards programs also offer the ability to transfer points to transfer partners. This can be a great way to get more value out of your rewards, as the transfer partners often offer better redemption options and value than redeeming points through the credit card rewards program.


If you have multiple credit cards from different rewards program:

Transferring points to transfer partners can also be a great way to combine points from multiple rewards programs, which can be particularly useful for those who have multiple credit cards with different rewards programs.

Credit card points can be a great way to get value out of your rewards. Some of the best ways to use credit card points include redeeming them for travel-related expenses, cash back or statement credit, merchandise, exclusive experiences, and transferring them to transfer partners. Be sure to review all the options available for your credit card rewards program, to maximize the value of your points.

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