Chase Ultimate Rewards points are a valuable currency for frequent travelers. With these points, you can book flights, hotels, and even car rentals. Buying airline tickets with Chase points is simple, but many travelers are unsure how to maximize the value of their points. This guide will help you understand how to use Chase points to buy airline tickets, step by step.
What Are Chase Ultimate Rewards Points?
Chase Ultimate Rewards points are earned through specific credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and Chase Ink Business cards. You can accumulate points from your everyday purchases, such as dining, travel, and shopping. These points are then redeemable for various rewards, including airline tickets.
Chase points can be used in different ways. You can book travel directly through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, transfer points to airline partners, or even use points for cash back. In this article, we will focus on how to use Chase points for airline tickets.
Earning Chase Ultimate Rewards Points
Before using your Chase points to buy an airline ticket, you need to have accumulated some. There are multiple ways to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Here are some of the most common:
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is one of the most popular options for earning Ultimate Rewards points. With this card, you earn 2 points per dollar on travel and dining and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.
2. Chase Sapphire Reserve Card
The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers 3 points per dollar on travel and dining, along with 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. This card also offers additional benefits, like access to luxury airport lounges and travel insurance.
3. Chase Freedom Cards
Chase Freedom cards, such as the Chase Freedom Flex and Chase Freedom Unlimited, allow you to earn bonus points in specific categories. For example, you may earn 5% on rotating categories and 1.5% on all other purchases.
4. Chase Ink Business Cards
If you own a business, Chase offers business credit cards that let you earn Ultimate Rewards points. The Chase Ink Business Preferred card, for example, gives 3 points per dollar on travel, shipping, internet, cable, and phone services, as well as 1 point on other purchases.
By using these cards for regular purchases, you can quickly accumulate Chase points and start redeeming them for travel rewards.
2 Effective Methods to Buy Airline Tickets with Chase Points
Once you’ve accumulated enough Chase points, you can use them to buy airline tickets in several ways. There are two main methods for using Chase points to purchase flights: through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal or by transferring points to airline partners.
Method 1: Booking Airline Tickets Through the Chase Ultimate Rewards Portal
The simplest way to use Chase points for airline tickets is to book directly through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. The portal acts like a travel agency, allowing you to book flights, hotels, and car rentals.
Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Log into Your Chase Account
To begin, log into your Chase account on the Chase Ultimate Rewards website. If you have a Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Sapphire Reserve, or another eligible card, you will have access to the Ultimate Rewards portal.
Step 2: Go to the Travel Section
Once logged in, navigate to the “Travel” section of the portal. This section allows you to book flights, hotels, car rentals, and more.
Step 3: Select Your Flight
Search for your desired flight, just like you would on any travel booking website. Enter the details, such as your departure city, destination, and travel dates. The system will show you all available flights.
Step 4: Pay with Points
Once you find your flight, you can pay for it using your Chase points. The price will be displayed in both dollars and points. If the price in points is lower than what you would pay in cash, you’ll get better value for your points.
For example, if a flight costs $500 or 50,000 points, you can choose to pay either in full with points or a combination of points and cash.
Step 5: Complete Your Booking
After selecting your payment method, complete your booking. You will receive a confirmation email with all the details of your flight.
Method 2: Transferring Points to Airline Partners
Another option for buying airline tickets with Chase points is to transfer them to one of Chase’s airline partners. Chase has several airline partners, including popular carriers like United, Southwest, British Airways, and more. By transferring your points to these airlines, you may be able to book flights at a better value, especially during sales or when booking award tickets.
Here’s how to transfer your points:
Step 1: Log into Your Chase Account
As with the first method, log into your Chase account on the Ultimate Rewards portal.
Step 2: Go to the “Transfer Points” Section
Once logged in, navigate to the “Transfer Points” section. You’ll see a list of Chase’s airline partners, each with specific transfer ratios.
Step 3: Choose Your Airline Partner
Select the airline to which you’d like to transfer your points. Chase partners with over a dozen airlines, and each has different transfer policies. Some airlines transfer points at a 1:1 ratio, while others may have a different ratio.
Step 4: Link Your Airline Account
You will need to link your Chase account to the airline’s frequent flyer program. If you haven’t already done so, you’ll be prompted to enter your frequent flyer account number and confirm the link.
Step 5: Transfer Your Points
Once your accounts are linked, you can transfer points to the airline program. Keep in mind that transfers are usually immediate but can sometimes take up to 24 hours, so plan accordingly.
Step 6: Book Your Flight
After your points have been transferred, you can log into the airline’s frequent flyer program and use the points to book your flight. You’ll be able to see the available flights and their award pricing.
Tips for Getting the Most Value from Chase Points
To maximize the value of your Chase points when booking airline tickets, consider these tips:
1. Book Flights During Sales
Airlines often have promotions or sales that offer discounted award tickets. Keep an eye out for these deals to stretch your points further.
2. Use Points for International Flights
Generally, using Chase points for international flights offers more value than domestic flights. Airlines often have lower redemption rates for long-haul flights, especially in business or first class.
3. Check for Airline Alliances
Many airlines are part of global alliances, such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, and Oneworld. By transferring your points to one airline within the alliance, you can often book flights with other airlines in the same group.
4. Book Early
Award flights are usually available in limited quantities, so it’s best to book early to secure the best availability.
5. Use Points for Upgrades
If you’ve already purchased a ticket, you can use Chase points to upgrade to a higher class of service. This can provide more comfort and a better travel experience.
Conclusion
Buying airline tickets with Chase points is a great way to save money and make the most of your rewards. Whether you book directly through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal or transfer points to airline partners, the process is straightforward and can be done in a few easy steps. By following these tips and planning ahead, you can get the best value from your Chase points and enjoy your next flight for less.
