Planning international trips can be expensive, but using travel points for international flights can make your dream vacation much more affordable. In 2025, more travelers are saving big on international flights by earning and redeeming points through airline loyalty programs and credit cards. This guide will help you understand how to collect and use points for flights, maximize their value, and avoid common mistakes.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a solo adventure, or a luxury vacation, learning how to use travel points wisely can help you fly further for less.
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Understanding Travel Points and Rewards Programs
Travel points are a fantastic way to cut down on flight costs and make travel more accessible. But how do they actually work? Let’s break it down.
What Are Travel Points?
Travel points are rewards you earn through airline loyalty programs, credit cards, or travel partners. You can collect these points by:
- Flying with airlines that offer loyalty programs.
- Using travel credit cards for everyday purchases.
- Booking hotels, car rentals, or dining with program partners.
Once you’ve earned enough points, you can redeem them for free or discounted international flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and more.
How Do Airline Loyalty Programs Work?
Airline loyalty programs reward frequent flyers with points or miles every time they book flights. The more you fly, the more travel points you earn. Some popular programs in 2025 include:
- British Airways Avios – Great for European travel.
- Emirates Skywards – Ideal for luxury flights to the Middle East and Asia.
- Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer – Perfect for Asia-Pacific routes.
These programs also offer perks like priority boarding, free checked bags, and seat upgrades.
Airline Miles vs. Credit Card Points
- Airline Miles: Earned directly by flying with a specific airline or its partners. Usually best for loyal customers who fly with the same airline often.
- Credit Card Points: Earned through spending on travel credit cards. These are more flexible because they can be transferred to multiple airlines or used for various travel expenses.
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Best Travel Reward Programs for International Flights in 2025
Choosing the right travel rewards program can make a huge difference in how far your points take you. In 2025, several programs stand out for international travelers looking to save on flights.
Top Airline Loyalty Programs
- British Airways Avios
- Perfect for short-haul European flights and partner airlines like Qatar Airways and American Airlines.
- Low taxes and fees on reward flights.
- Emirates Skywards
- Great for luxury travel to the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
- Exclusive upgrades and lounge access for members.
- Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
- Ideal for Asia-Pacific destinations.
- Smooth point transfers from major credit cards.
- Air France-KLM Flying Blue
- Monthly Promo Rewards offer discounted international flights.
- Flexible booking options with partner airlines.
Best Credit Cards for Earning International Flight Points
- Chase Sapphire Preferred
- High earning rates on travel and dining.
- Points transfer to top airline partners like Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways.
- American Express Platinum
- Premium travel perks like lounge access and airline fee credits.
- Membership Rewards points transfer to various airlines.
- Capital One Venture Rewards
- Simple, flat-rate earning on all purchases.
- Miles can be used to erase travel expenses or transferred to airline partners.
Comparison of Programs: Which Offers the Best Value?
| British Airways Avios | European travel | Low fees, partner airline access |
| Emirates Skywards | Luxury and long-haul flights | First-class upgrades, exclusive deals |
| Singapore KrisFlyer | Asia-Pacific destinations | Flexible transfers, excellent service |
| Flying Blue (Air France) | Flexible international travel | Monthly Promo Rewards, partner network |
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Strategies to Earn Maximum Points for International Flights
Earning more travel points doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right strategies, you can quickly build up points and enjoy affordable international flights. Here’s how to make the most of every opportunity in 2025.
Everyday Spending Hacks to Earn More Points
- Use Travel Credit Cards for Daily Purchases
- Pay for groceries, fuel, dining, and online shopping with your travel rewards credit card.
- Some cards offer 2x to 5x points on specific categories like travel and dining.
- Set Up Automatic Payments
- Pay bills (utilities, streaming services, subscriptions) using your credit card to earn points effortlessly.
- Shop Through Airline and Credit Card Portals
- Airlines and credit cards offer bonus points when you shop through their online shopping portals.
- Popular options: British Airways eStore, Chase Ultimate Rewards shopping portal.
Partner Airlines and Hotel Stays for Bonus Points
- Fly with Partner Airlines
- Use alliances like Oneworld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam to earn miles across partner airlines.
- Example: Book a flight with Qatar Airways and still earn British Airways Avios.
- Stay at Partner Hotels
- Book hotels partnered with your airline program to earn extra points.
- Example: Marriott Bonvoy points can transfer to over 40 airlines.
- Car Rentals and Dining Programs
- Rent cars or dine at participating restaurants to rack up more points.
- Programs like MileagePlus Dining or SkyMiles Dining offer bonus points for restaurant visits.
Sign-Up Bonuses and Promotions to Watch in 2025
- Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses
- New credit cards often offer huge bonuses if you spend a certain amount in the first few months.
- Example: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending £3,000 in the first 3 months.
- Limited-Time Promotions
- Airlines and credit cards run special deals where you can earn double or triple points.
- Stay updated on offers from programs like Flying Blue Promo Rewards.
- Referral Bonuses
- Refer friends and family to your credit card or loyalty program for extra points.
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How to Redeem Points for International Flights
Earning travel points is only half the journey—the real value comes from redeeming them wisely. Understanding how to use your points effectively can unlock amazing international travel experiences without breaking the bank.
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking International Flights with Points
- Log in to Your Loyalty Account
- Visit your airline or credit card rewards portal and sign in to your account.
- Search for Award Flights
- Enter your travel dates and destination.
- Use flexible date searches to find flights that cost fewer points.
- Compare Redemption Options
- Check for partner airline availability.
- Consider using points for premium cabins if the value is better.
- Confirm and Book
- Once you find the best flight, proceed to book using your points.
- Be aware of taxes and fees that may apply (some airlines charge more than others).
Avoiding Blackout Dates and Maximizing Point Value
- Book Early or Last-Minute
- Airlines often release award seats months in advance or just before departure.
- Booking early gives more options, while last-minute can unlock hidden deals.
- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
- Flying during quieter times (midweek, off-season months) often requires fewer points.
- Use Airline Alliances and Partners
- If your airline has no availability, check partner airlines for award seats.
- Example: Use American Airlines AAdvantage miles to book with Qatar Airways.
- Combine Points and Cash
- Some programs allow a mix of points and cash, making premium cabins more accessible.
Using Points for Upgrades and Additional Perks
- Flight Upgrades
- Upgrade from economy to business or first class using fewer points than booking a premium ticket outright.
- Extra Luggage and Priority Services
- Some programs allow you to redeem points for checked bags, priority boarding, or lounge access.
- Hotel Stays and Travel Extras
- Transfer points to hotel partners or use them for car rentals and activities.
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Insider Tips to Maximize Your Points Value in 2025
Simply earning points isn’t enough—you need to be smart about how you use them. These insider tips will help you stretch every point for the best travel experience in 2025.
Book During Off-Peak Seasons
- Travel in Shoulder Seasons: Flying in spring or autumn (outside of peak summer and holiday months) can save you thousands of points.
- Midweek Flights: Tuesdays and Wednesdays often require fewer points than weekend flights.
Combine Points and Cash for Premium Seats
- Many programs let you split payments between points and cash.
- This is a great strategy if you’re short on points but want to upgrade to business or first class.
Use Award Booking Tools and Apps
- Tools like Point.Me, AwardHacker, and airline search engines help you find the best ways to use your points.
- Set alerts for award availability so you never miss a deal.
Transfer Points to Airline Partners Strategically
- Sometimes transferring credit card points to a partner airline can offer better value than booking directly.
- Example: Amex Membership Rewards transfer to ANA Airlines can offer cheaper international redemptions.
Look for Sweet Spots in Award Charts
- Some airlines offer better value for specific routes.
- Example: Flying Blue Promo Rewards often feature discounted flights to Europe and Africa.
- Asia Miles offers excellent value for long-haul flights to Asia.
Earn Points Through Everyday Travel Extras
- Dining Programs: Earn extra points by dining at partner restaurants.
- Hotel Stays: Book with hotel partners that offer bonus airline miles.
- Rental Cars: Some rental car services offer double points for airline loyalty members.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Points for Flights
Maximizing your travel points requires smart strategies, but many travelers unknowingly make mistakes that reduce the value of their rewards. Avoid these common pitfalls to get the most out of your points in 2025.
Waiting Too Long to Book
- Award seats are limited and can sell out quickly. Booking too late often leaves fewer options or requires more points.
- Tip: Book award flights as soon as schedules open (typically 11–12 months in advance).
Ignoring Airline Partners
- Many travelers forget they can redeem points on partner airlines within alliances.
- Tip: Use alliances like Oneworld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam to access more routes and lower point costs.
Not Understanding Point Expiry Rules
- Some loyalty programs have strict expiration policies for points.
- Tip: Keep your account active by making small purchases or transfers to extend your points’ life.
Redeeming Points for Poor Value
- Using points for items like gift cards, merchandise, or low-value flights often gives poor returns.
- Tip: Focus on redeeming points for long-haul flights or business/first-class upgrades where they offer the highest value.
Overlooking Fees and Surcharges
- Some “free” award flights come with high taxes and fuel surcharges.
- Tip: Choose airlines with low fees, such as Avianca LifeMiles or ANA Mileage Club, to avoid hefty charges.
Wasting Points on Short-Haul Flights
- Short flights often have cheap cash fares, making points less valuable for these routes.
- Tip: Save your points for expensive or long-haul flights where cash fares are high.
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Best Destinations to Visit Using Points in 2025
Redeeming points for international flights can open doors to some of the most exciting destinations around the world. In 2025, certain locations offer excellent value for your travel rewards, combining affordability with unforgettable experiences.
Top International Destinations for Points Redemption
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Why Visit: Affordable European capital with rich history, vibrant nightlife, and stunning coastal views.
- Best Program: Use British Airways Avios for cheap short-haul flights via Iberia.
- Tokyo, Japan
- Why Visit: A perfect mix of tradition and technology, plus cherry blossoms in spring.
- Best Program: ANA Mileage Club offers low surcharges and great deals on long-haul flights.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Why Visit: Beautiful beaches, mountain views, and rich cultural experiences.
- Best Program: Use Emirates Skywards with partner flights for long-haul savings.
- Bali, Indonesia
- Why Visit: Affordable luxury with serene beaches, lush forests, and vibrant nightlife.
- Best Program: Redeem Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer miles for premium travel.
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Why Visit: Experience the Northern Lights, geysers, and dramatic landscapes.
- Best Program: Flying Blue Promo Rewards often feature discounted European flights.
Hidden Gem Destinations for High Value
- Tbilisi, Georgia – A rising hotspot with affordable luxury stays.
- Lima, Peru – Gateway to Machu Picchu and Peruvian cuisine.
- Hanoi, Vietnam – Perfect for budget travelers seeking culture and adventure.
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Future of Travel Rewards: Trends to Watch in 2025 and Beyond
The travel industry is evolving, and so are reward programs. Staying ahead of these trends can help you make smarter decisions with your points.
Dynamic Pricing for Award Flights
- More airlines are moving away from fixed award charts to dynamic pricing, where point costs change based on demand.
- Tip: Book during off-peak times for better deals.
Flexible Redemption Options
- Programs are expanding beyond flights and hotels, allowing you to redeem points for experiences, event tickets, and even eco-friendly options.
Sustainability in Travel Rewards
- Expect airlines to introduce more eco-conscious redemption options, like carbon offsets or sustainable hotel stays.
Increased Airline and Hotel Partnerships
- New partnerships between airlines, hotels, and lifestyle brands will offer more ways to earn and spend points.
- Example: Airbnb and certain airlines are exploring point-earning collaborations.
Personalized Offers with AI
- Loyalty programs will use artificial intelligence to provide customized offers based on travel history and preferences.
Cryptocurrency and Travel Rewards
- Some programs are exploring cryptocurrency-based rewards for more flexible redemptions.
👉 Stay updated on the latest travel trends by exploring our 2025 Travel Guide for expert insights and tips!
FAQs of points for international flights
What are the best ways to earn points for international flights in 2025?
Many travelers struggle with finding effective ways to maximize point earnings. To earn points faster, use travel rewards credit cards for daily spending, shop through airline portals, and book with airline partners. Taking advantage of bonus promotions and sign-up bonuses from credit cards can also speed up the process.
Are travel reward programs worth it for occasional travelers?
While frequent travelers can accumulate points quickly, occasional travelers can still benefit from travel reward programs. By using credit cards for everyday purchases, taking advantage of sign-up bonuses, and focusing on specific destinations with good award availability, occasional travelers can enjoy discounts and upgrades without traveling constantly.
How can I avoid high fees when booking flights with points?
Booking award flights with points can come with hidden taxes and fees. To avoid these, choose airlines with low surcharges, such as ANA Mileage Club or Avianca LifeMiles. Also, book flights during off-peak times and avoid last-minute bookings to secure the best deals.
Can I combine points from different credit cards and airlines for one flight?
Yes, many airlines allow you to combine points from different programs, especially if they are part of a major alliance like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or Oneworld. Also, some credit card reward programs allow point transfers to multiple airlines, making it easier to use your points on a variety of flights.
What are the hidden fees when redeeming airline miles for international flights?
Hidden fees can include taxes, fuel surcharges, and booking fees, which are often not covered by your points. Some airlines, like British Airways or Lufthansa, are known for high surcharges, especially on long-haul flights. Always check the total cost of the redemption, including fees, before confirming your booking.
How do I find the best value for my points when booking long-haul international flights?
For the best value, book during off-peak times, use flexible dates, and look for partner airlines with lower taxes and surcharges. Airline alliances offer great opportunities to transfer points and secure more affordable flight options.
What are the most rewarding international destinations to visit with points in 2025?
Destinations like Lisbon, Tokyo, Cape Town, and Reykjavik offer great value for points in 2025. You can find discounted award flights with programs like British Airways Avios, ANA Mileage Club, and Flying Blue Promo Rewards. Always compare options within alliances to maximize the use of your points.
How can I upgrade my seat using miles or points?
To upgrade your seat to business or first class, check if your airline allows miles upgrades. Some airlines offer discounted upgrade options at booking or via bid-based programs. For better value, use points on longer international flights, where upgrades provide the most comfort.
How does dynamic pricing affect the value of my travel rewards in 2025?
Dynamic pricing means that award flights no longer have fixed point costs; instead, the price varies based on demand. This can make booking award flights more expensive during peak travel seasons. To combat this, use flexible dates and book well in advance. Consider using airline partners with fixed award charts if you want to avoid fluctuating prices.
Can I earn points for flights I’ve already booked?
Yes, you can often earn points retroactively by linking your flight reservation to your loyalty program account. Some airlines also offer mileage credit for previous flights, especially if you join the program after booking. However, this is usually only possible within a few weeks of flying.
Can I use points for hotels and car rentals?
Many travel reward programs allow you to redeem points not just for flights, but for hotels, car rentals, and other travel expenses. Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards offer flexible redemption options that can be used for a variety of travel needs.
How do I avoid expiration of my travel rewards points?
Most loyalty programs have expiration rules for unused points. To prevent expiration, ensure you make at least one qualifying transaction every year, whether it’s booking a flight, using a credit card for purchases, or transferring points to a partner. Some programs, like American Airlines AAdvantage, allow you to extend your points by purchasing miles or transferring points to a partner account.
Ready to maximize points for International flights?
Traveling internationally doesn’t have to be expensive when you know how to earn and redeem points effectively. By choosing the right reward programs, maximizing everyday spending, and booking flights wisely, you can unlock incredible travel opportunities in 2025 without breaking the bank.
Here’s a quick recap to help you get started:
- Join top airline loyalty programs like British Airways Avios or Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer for international rewards.
- Use travel credit cards for daily purchases to build points faster.
- Redeem points smartly by booking during off-peak seasons, using partner airlines, and combining points with cash for upgrades.
- Avoid common mistakes like letting points expire or overlooking hidden fees.
By following these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to affordable and unforgettable global adventures.
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Safe travels and happy point collecting! 🌍✈️
