Sunday, January 11, 2026
Written by Estefania Martinez Pardo. This guide is based on my personal experience traveling frequently while paying very little for flights by using credit card points and miles.
This is the short version. If you only read one page, read this.
The Big Idea
You can use credit card points to cover the expensive part of flights. You usually only pay taxes and fees out of pocket. On some one‑way international flights, that can be as low as $5.60.
Who This Works For
- You live in the United States
- You are 18+ with some form of income
- You can pay your credit card in full every month
- You are willing to wait 3–6 months
The Simple Path (No Experience Needed)
- Start with one credit card (starter card if you have no credit, travel card if you already have credit).
- Use it for normal spending (groceries, gas, dining). Do not spend extra.
- Earn the sign‑up bonus by hitting the spending requirement.
- Choose one airline that makes sense where you live (I use United because of its hubs).
- Search for award flights first, then transfer points if needed.
- Book the flight with points and pay the small taxes (sometimes $5.60).
Why the Mobile App Matters
Many of the best deals appear inside airline mobile apps, not on desktop. Having: