One of the most aspirational properties in the Hilton Honors portfolio is certainly the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. It's often considered one of the best Waldoft Astoria hotels, but nightly rates start at an eye-watering $2,988.

Meanwhile, standard room rewards cost 250,000 points per night (if you can find availability). Otherwise, you'll only see premium room rewards that cost at least four times as many points per night.

I managed to piece together a three-night standard room reward stay at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives in 2024. But, it can certainly feel like there's rarely two standard room reward nights together, much less enough nights to make it worth the mandatory $1,235 per person return transfer between the international airport in Male and the resort.

But, just how limited is standard room reward availability at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi? And how difficult is it to piece together a trip if you only want to book standard room reward nights? Let's dive into some data from Gondola (a free hotel search and direct booking platform for frequent travelers) to answer these questions.

Award pricing at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives

If you've never tried to book an award stay at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, you might be shocked when you do a flexible award search. For example, July's flexible award calendar shows just four nights with standard room rewards of 250,000 points. These standard room rewards are what you'll need if you want to redeem a Hilton annual free night reward certificate.

Some months, such as November, may have zero nights with standard room rewards.

Based on data from Gondola, here's a breakdown of what the least expensive award rates looked like for one-night stays at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi across the next 10 to 11 months when they searched on March 29:

Of the nights bookable with points, only 10.8% offered standard room rewards. But, as you can see from the average redemption rates, you'll get a very low redemption rate from premium room rewards at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. For reference, TPG's April 2026 valuations peg Hilton points at 0.4 cents.

The small comparable price difference between standard room rewards and the lowest-cost premium room rewards makes sense given the room types. The rooms available with standard room rewards at this property are the "two queen bedded reef villa with pool" and the "king reef villa with pool." Meanwhile, beach and overwater villas with similar layouts and sizes (and yes, private pools) carry premium room reward pricing but just marginally higher paid rates.

So, if you're going to use points at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, booking standard room rewards will give you by far the best value. And, these are the only type of awards you can book with Hilton free night certificates.

Related: 6 ways to maximize Hilton Honors redemptions

Frequency of standard award nights at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives

In the above section, we considered award availability at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi for searches on a specific date. But, Gondola checks paid and award rates across about 320 future check-in dates every 36 hours. So, across Gondola's approximately 19 checks in March 2026, here's how many unique check-in dates within each month they found with 250,000-point standard reward night availability at least once:

• March 2026: 30 dates appeared at least once (seven dates on average at any given time)
• April 2026: 30 dates appeared at least once (10 dates on average at any given time)
• May 2026: 17 dates appeared at least once (four dates on average at any given time)
• June 2026: 22 dates appeared at least once (five dates on average at any given time)
• July 2026: 30 dates appeared at least once (eight dates on average at any given time)
• August 2026: One date appeared at least once (No dates on average at any given time)
• September 2026: Six dates appeared at least once (One date on average at any given time)
• October 2026: 12 dates appeared at least once (Two dates on average at any given time)
• November 2026: 11 dates appeared at least once (One date on average at any given time)
• December 2026: Three dates appeared at least once (No dates on average at any given time)
• January 2027: Seven dates appeared at least once (One date on average at any given time)

From this data and my personal experience searching for award nights at this property, two important learnings emerge:

• First, standard reward nights often tend to pop up for check-in dates within the next month or so. Many travelers plan their Maldives vacations well in advance, but you may be able to snag multiple standard reward nights if you can travel in the next month or two.
• Second, standard reward nights do frequently appear. So, periodically searching (or setting award alerts) for standard room rewards on dates around those you've already secured can pay off (especially in some months).

Note that you'll want to book quickly once you find standard room reward availability that works for you. Data from seven consecutive searches by Gondola shows just how volatile standard room reward availability is at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi:

Another way to look at the standard reward-night volatility is to consider data on how long a specific check-in date remains available at 250,000 points once it appears. Here's a look at this measure of volatility across Gondola's 19 checks in March (for check-in dates in April and beyond):

• One check only: 14 check-in dates
• Two to five checks: 20 check-in dates
• Six to 10 checks: 14 check-in dates
• 11 to 19 checks: 12 check-in dates

So, while some standard room reward nights stay available for days or even weeks, others disappear quickly.

Related: 34 Maldives resorts you can book with points and miles

Bottom line

I loved my three-night stay at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi in 2024, and I am happy I got to experience one of the most aspirational hotels you can book with points. I'll likely try out other Maldives resorts on future trips. But, it's nice to see the data back up my take that you can often string together multiple standard room reward nights at this property by diligently checking award space and booking using points or free night certificates when standard room reward nights become available.

That said, it's highly unlikely you'll be able to book five standard room reward nights together in a single booking (which is what you'd need to get a fifth night free if you have Hilton elite status) unless you book a last-minute stay. And, keep in mind that the on-site food, drink, experiences and mandatory airport transfers will still add up to an expensive stay even if you secure standard room reward nights. But if you have the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, you can at least use your Hilton Aspire resort credit (up to $200 in statement credits biannually) to offset some incidental costs.

Gondola is a free hotel search and direct booking platform for frequent travelers, making it easy to compare cash and points rates across brands while earning up to an extra 7% cash back.

It's hard to imagine that a simple error could cost thousands of points or miles, but that's exactly what happened to me while booking a flight to Cancun for my friends and me.

I've always been diligent about managing my rewards since I've heard horror stories of people losing large chunks of their balances through one mistake or another. But nobody's perfect: I put too much trust in my account to auto-update after a points transfer, and it ended up costing me 15,000 miles.

Here's what happened and how you can avoid making the same mistake.

The transfer: Moving Membership Rewards to Delta SkyMiles

Two of my friends and I decided to go to Cancun this summer, and I volunteered to book us with points and miles.

At the time, I had close to 200,000 Amex Membership Rewards points, so Delta Air Lines was at the top of my list of airlines to consider, since it's one of Amex's transfer partners. I knew I could easily book a few tickets to Cancun and still have a ton of points to spare.

One of my friends wasn't flexible on our travel dates due to her work schedule, so I kept a close eye on Seats.aero to find the best option for us. Delta turned out to be the cheapest option for our flight to Cancun, perfect luck for me.

In total, I'd need to transfer 69,000 Membership Rewards points to Delta SkyMiles to book this flight from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Cancun International Airport (CUN). So, that's exactly what I did.

Historically, my transfers have been credited to my account immediately. This time, though, the miles didn't post right away. I made the transfer on a holiday weekend, and I'd heard transfers can sometimes take a couple of days to post, so I waited.

Big mistake.

Related: Why you should master a few credit card transfer partners, and (most likely) leave the rest behind

The mistake: Waiting too long to contact Delta support

I waited a few days after my transfer to contact Delta support.

My loyalty account balances have always auto-updated after past transfers, so, at the time, I thought Delta's system was just taking a long time to process my transfer.

In reality, the transfer had posted right after I made it. When I contacted support, a representative confirmed that my updated balance wasn't showing on my account due to a technical issue on Delta's side. The fix to see them was simple: log out and back in.

As soon as I logged out and in, the problem was fixed. My 69,000 SkyMiles were available.

I immediately navigated to Delta's booking page to snag three award tickets, only to find that the flight I'd chosen had gone up in price in the few days since I last checked.

It wasn't anything jaw-dropping, but it wasn't a painless increase, either. In total, I had to transfer an additional 15,000 Membership Rewards points to Delta to cover the additional cost.

I'm fortunate to have a significant Membership Rewards balance, thanks in large part to the welcome offers I earned from my American Express® Gold Card and American Express Platinum Card®.

If those 69,000 points were all I had, I would've been in a very tough spot. Transfers are always one-way, so I wouldn't have had the option to use those points for another airline.

Related: I had no rebooking options after my flight was canceled. Here's how transferable points got me home

The lesson: Always be proactive about contacting support if your transfer isn't posting

The mistake itself was easy to avoid. I should've contacted support after 24 hours, since my previous transfers always posted instantly. Any unexpected delay in your rewards posting is worth contacting support about, just in case there's a glitch.

Even if nothing's wrong, take it from me: It's better to be safe than sorry.

This is especially true if you're using most or all of your rewards balance for a transfer, or if your travel dates are inflexible. Of course, you could always buy additional points or miles if you need more and don't have any left to transfer. But that can get costly if you need to buy a substantial number of points and miles.

In the end, the best strategy is to contact support if something feels off. Don't trust that your account balance will display properly.

Related: Don't fall for this airline customer service scam

Bottom line

In the end, I was able to book the flight for my friends and me. 15,000 SkyMiles didn't annihilate my rewards balance, but it took enough of a chunk for me to learn an important lesson.

I spent so much time focusing on big picture things like using the right card for certain purchases and monitoring award trackers that I missed something so simple. If you plan to make a transfer to Delta SkyMiles soon, remember to log out of your account and back in after the transfer completes.

Above all else, don't hesitate to contact your loyalty program's support if you're concerned about how long a transfer is taking. If something feels off, it probably is.

Related: 7 mistakes to avoid when redeeming hotel points

If the Atmos Rewards loyalty program isn't on your radar yet, it's time to buckle up and pay attention.

Born from the merger of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, this program has quietly become one of the most valuable in the industry, with an award chart full of sweet spots. And the premium Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® credit card is the best way to rack up lots of those points quickly, especially if you travel internationally.

That's because, in addition to a huge elevated welcome bonus, the Summit card earns an impressive 3 Atmos Rewards points per dollar spent on every foreign purchase.

That's not just dining or travel, but every purchase made in a foreign currency.

When you're traveling abroad, the last thing you want is to have to figure out which card to use for each transaction. With the Summit card, it's all you need.

Here's why this single earning rate makes the card the market leader for international travelers.

Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite credit card: Earn 100,000 bonus points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,500 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening. New cardholders will also receive a 50% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening their account.

Related: My take on Alaska's new unified Atmos Rewards program

Why the foreign purchases earning rate puts this card in a league of its own

At TPG's April 2026 valuation of Atmos Rewards points, earning 3 points per dollar on foreign purchases translates to 4.2 cents of value per dollar spent abroad. That return exceeds what you'd earn on bonus categories with the most popular premium travel cards, airline or otherwise.

The beauty of the Summit card is its simplicity. There are no rotating categories to activate, no cap on bonus earnings and no confusion about merchant codes or time zones. Every foreign transaction earns the same generous rate, whether you're paying for a hotel in Tokyo, a train ticket in Switzerland or groceries in Mexico.

TPG contributing editor Matt Moffitt, who recently relocated to Spain, now uses the Summit card for all non-dining purchases.

Though the American Express® Gold Card still edges ahead in one single category, dining at 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, the 1 point per dollar spent thereafter), Amex acceptance outside the U.S. can be inconsistent, something Matt doesn't face with the Summit's worldwide Visa network.

How the Atmos Summit compares with other premium airline cards' international earning rates

The Summit card earns:

• Unlimited 3 points per dollar spent on eligible worldwide dining, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases and all foreign transactions
• Unlimited 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases (such as supermarkets within the United States)

The card has an annual fee of $395.

Most premium airline cards with similar annual fees offer bonus points or miles in a limited number of select travel categories and 1 point or mile per dollar spent on everything else, but none match the Summit's blanket 3 points per dollar spent on foreign purchases:

• The Citi® / AAdvantage® Globe™ Mastercard® with a $350 annual fee (see rates and fees) earns 3 miles per dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases, but only 2 miles per dollar spent on dining and just 1 mile per dollar spent on other purchases.
• The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card with a $350 annual fee (see rates and fees) earns a similar 3 miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels, but only 2 miles per dollar spent on restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets, and 1 mile per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• The United Quest℠ Card with a $350 annual fee (see rates and fees) earns 10 total miles per dollar spent on eligible United flights, 4 miles per dollar spent on all other United purchases, 2 miles per dollar spent on dining, select streaming services and other travel, and 1 mile per dollar sepnt on all other purchases.

None of these cards comprehensively reward the routine spending that makes up the bulk of what travelers actually charge abroad: groceries, transportation, shopping and incidental expenses. Meanwhile, the Summit card generously and innovatively rewards you for being an international traveler.

Other benefits of the card

The foreign-earnings rate is my favorite feature, but the Summit's broader offering justifies its $395 annual fee for frequent travelers, whether they travel domestically or internationally.

The current limited-time welcome offer delivers serious value: earn 100,000 bonus Atmos Rewards points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,500 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening. New cardholders will also receive a 50% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening their account. Based on our April 2026 valuations, the bonus points alone are worth $1,400.

The Global Companion Award offers a discount of up to 25,000 points (or 100,000 points after $60,000 in annual spending) on the second passenger's ticket when you book two people traveling together with Atmos Rewards points. Uniquely, it is valid for travel on Alaska Airlines and all of its airline redemption partners, both in and outside of the Oneworld alliance, in any cabin — including Hawaiian Airlines, British Airways, Qantas, Iberia, Icelandair, Korean Air and others. Applicable fees and taxes still apply.

The card also offers a host of other travel benefits, including anniversary status points, a pathway to elite status, lounge and Wi-Fi passes, waived same-day confirmed flight change fee and free checked baggage on Alaska and Hawaiian flights.

You don't need to fly Alaska to get amazing value from Atmos Rewards points

Even if you've never set foot on an Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines flight, Atmos Rewards points can deliver amazing value through partner redemptions. The program inherited Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan's award chart, which has long been a favorite among points and miles enthusiasts for its outsize value on partner airlines.

The sweet spots span virtually every region of the globe. You can book an American Airlines flight of up to 700 miles in length for just 4,500 Atmos Rewards points, or fly Hawaiian Airlines economy from the West Coast to Hawaii for 10,000 points.

Looking to cross the Atlantic? Aer Lingus business class to Ireland starts at just 45,000 points. For aspirational redemptions, 75,000 points can get you a seat on Japan Airlines' business class from the West Coast to Tokyo, or Fiji Airways business class to Fiji.

Related: I've never flown Alaska Airlines before — here's why I want their premium credit card

Bottom line

Earning 3 Atmos Rewards points per dollar on every transaction abroad — worth 4.2 cents per dollar at TPG's current valuations — is unmatched by any other airline card.

If you haven't been paying attention to Atmos Rewards, consider this your wake-up call. Combined with a huge welcome offer, useful travel perks and one of the most generous partner redemption charts in the industry, the Atmos Rewards Summit card is an incredible companion to pack with your passport.

The current welcome offer is 100,000 bonus points, plus a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,500 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening. New cardholders will also receive a 50% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening their account.

If international travel is part of your life, this card should be, too.

Apply here: Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite credit card

Related reading:

• How to reach Alaska Airlines elite status with just 1 card
• Is the Atmos Rewards Summit worth the annual fee?
• Why American Airlines flyers should pay attention to Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards
• Who are Alaska Airlines' partners? Plus, how to earn and redeem Atmos Rewards points

For rates and fees of the Delta Platinum Amex, click here).

On Southwest Airlines, it now costs (even) more to check a bag unless you qualify for a fare, credit card or airline status waiver.

However, starting April 24, any Southwest Airlines passenger flying between select cities on the U.S. West Coast will be able to check up to one case of wine for free.

The carrier has not yet shared which cities will be included in its new Sip and Ship program. But because the announcement was paired with a release celebrating new Southwest service from Santa Rosa, California, to San Diego, Las Vegas and Burbank, California, it's a good bet Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) near Santa Rosa is on the list.

Southwest serves many of the cities in West Coast wine country, which stretches from California to Oregon, Washington and even Idaho. So, it's likely the Sip and Ship program will prove to be a welcome amenity for Southwest Airlines travelers wanting to bring home a bottle or a case of wine as a souvenir.

"By adding service to Sonoma County Airport and launching Sip and Ship, we're offering our Customers even more convenience and an opportunity to continuing sipping and savoring their time in wine country," Andrew Watterson, chief operating officer at Southwest Airlines, said in a statement.

While we wait for the eligible cities to be announced, here are some of the airline's rules for shipping wine:

• Only passengers 21 years of age or older may check wine for free.
• The wine must be securely packaged in a leak-proof bag or box with proper and professional packaging, and it must be checked in at the customer service counter.
• Southwest defines a "case" as a single box or specialized wine suitcase containing up to twelve bottles and weighing no more than 50 pounds.
• "The top of the primary shipping container must not be sealed prior to Customer Service Agent inspection at the airport," according to the carrier. So, you can't fill a wine box with your dirty clothes in a sneaky attempt to evade checked bag fees.

Alaska Airlines' Wine Flies Free program

Southwest is not the first airline to ship passengers' wine for free.

Back in 2007, Alaska Airlines debuted its Wine Flies Free program and coincidentally also used the STS airport as the kickoff spot.

There are now 32 West Coast cities included in its program, which is available to any Atmos Reward mileage program member.

You must be 21 or older to take advantage of the program; you also must be departing from and arriving at one of the 32 airports in Washington, Idaho or California that the airline serves.

Here is the list:

• Washington: Bellingham International Airport (BLI), Paine Field (PAE), Tri-Cities Airport (PSC), Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport (PUW), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Spokane International Airport (GEG), Walla Walla Regional Airport (ALW), Pangborn Memorial Airport (EAT) and McAllister Field (YKM)
• Oregon: Eugene Airport (EUG), Rogue Valley International Medford Airport (MFR), Portland International Airport (PDX) and Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM)
• California: Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), Ontario International Airport (ONT), John Wayne Airport (SNA), Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), Redding Regional Airport (RDD), Sacramento International Airport (SMF), San Diego International Airport (SAN), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC), SLO County Airport (SBP), Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) and STS
• Idaho: Boise Airport (BOI), Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) and Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN)

The Wine Flies Free program requires wine to be checked in at the counter, properly labeled and packed in a case or box with enough packing material — Styrofoam, cardboard, bubble wrap, etc. — to keep the bottle or bottles protected. (Alaska even has some cobranded approved wine carriers on its site.)

Bonus benefit of the Wine Flies Free program

Alaska's Wine Flies Free program has a hidden benefit that can be just as, if not more valuable than, the waived baggage fee.

Wineries and tasting rooms in Oregon, Washington and Idaho normally charge a tasting fee, which can range from $15 to $40 per person. However, select wineries may waive the fees if you show your inbound boarding pass and Atmos Rewards membership. (Many wineries also waive tasting fees if you purchase a bottle.)

Rules and regulations may vary by state and winery. Be sure to check the winery's website and download the apps for each state's program. (Follow the links on the Wine Flies Free page.)

If you are plotting a day of wine tasting based on waived fees, be sure to call ahead to confirm. Many wineries will not waive the fee on weekends, holidays or during special events. And, in Idaho, participating wineries may ask for proof that you have flown into an Idaho airport.

It's generally a good idea to open a card with an airline you fly frequently. If you're often on Avianca flights, the Avianca Lifemiles American Express® Card may very well be up your alley.

The main selling point of this mid-tier airline card is its complimentary Avianca elite status. I view it as a great fit for those who frequently fly to Colombia and Central America, the areas where Avianca's route network is strongest. If you already have status with Avianca or only fly with the carrier occasionally, you may struggle to justify this card's $99 annual fee (see rates and fees).

Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐

*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

Avianca Lifemiles Amex: The basics

The Avianca Lifemiles Amex looks like a fairly standard middle-of-the-road card at first glance. It has a $99 annual fee, earns bonus miles on Avianca purchases and a selection of everyday categories and comes with airline-specific benefits. It's those airline perks that set it apart from other airline cards.

Specifically, the Avianca Lifemiles Amex offers complimentary airline elite status, something you rarely find on airline cards. You'll receive Avianca Silver status with this card, granting you the following perks, among others:

• Avianca lounge access twice each year
• Extra-legroom seat selection
• Select upgrade options
• An extra free checked bag (excludes Basic and Light fares)
• Priority check-in and boarding (Group B)

Many airline cards make checked bags and priority boarding the centerpieces of their benefits, but the standout here for me is the lounge access. It's very rare to come across sub-$300 cards that offer any kind of lounge access.

It may not be as far-reaching as a Priority Pass membership, but if your appetite for annual fees is slim, this card could be a good compromise.

On top of what you get through Avianca Silver status, this card has no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees) and offers a 5% discount on redemptions for Avianca flights booked through Lifemiles.

It's important to note that despite the name, the Avianca Lifemiles Amex isn't issued by American Express. Rather, it's issued on behalf of Cardless by First Electronic Bank using Amex's payment network.

Avianca Lifemiles Amex pros and cons

Avianca Lifemiles Amex benefits

Currently, Avianca offers four status tiers. Silver status is the second tier, normally requiring 12,000 qualifying miles in a status qualification year (3,000 of which must be earned on Avianca flights). It matches to Star Alliance Silver status, a solid value proposition if you're looking for basic benefits like priority waitlisting and standby with an entire airline alliance.

It's important to note that you'll only get two Avianca lounge visits per year, but any lounge access is a meaningful perk with a card that charges just $99 each year. How far this particular benefit stretches for you will depend on whether you have lounge access with another card and what lounges are in the airports you transit through most.

You'll receive access to all Avianca VIP lounges with Silver status, though it's important to note that the Miami International Airport (MIA) lounge location is included in the Priority Pass network. You can also redeem one of your entry passes for a companion (except for the Miami lounge).

Depending on how many lounges you can access in the airports you frequent, you may or may not find this card benefit useful.

You won't receive your extra free checked bag on Basic and Light fares, which could be a big con for this card if you frequently book those fares. Your extra checked bag could cost well over a hundred dollars, depending on your origin and destination, so this benefit alone can net you back the money you spend on the card's annual fee. But I wish this card followed the pattern of other airline cards by offering a free checked bag from the start, rather than tacking an additional bag onto the one included with your fare.

While this card's perks are useful for those with no Avianca status, anyone with Avianca Gold or Diamond status won't get much. Avianca Silver is the backbone of this card, and its perks are already included in Gold and Diamond status.

Related: San Francisco gets a new nonstop flight to Central America beginning June 1

How to earn and use your rewards

How to earn your rewards

The only way I see Avianca Gold or Diamond members getting meaningful value from the Avianca Lifemiles Amex is if they put significant spending on the card.

This card's bonus categories are:

• 2 miles per dollar spent on Avianca and Lifemiles purchases, dining and groceries
• 1 mile per dollar spent on everything else

Airline cards are almost never a good place to put your everyday spending. If you put those expenses on a general travel rewards card instead, you'll earn transferable points or miles that you can use with many different airlines and hotels. That will make it a lot easier to get maximum value from your rewards.

The Avianca Amex is no exception — I don't recommend putting your everyday spending on this card.

That said, if you're highly loyal to Avianca or you need to top off your Lifemiles balance for a specific redemption, this card earns moderately well on groceries and dining. It's a decent option for Avianca purchases, unless you have a card that earns more on flights (such as the American Express Platinum Card®).

I'd like to see this card offer a higher earning rate for Avianca purchases since many airline cards with an annual fee offer at least 3 miles per dollar spent.

How to redeem Avianca Lifemiles

Avianca Lifemiles are powerful because they can be redeemed for flights on any Star Alliance airline, not just Avianca. As a cardholder, you'll want to fly with Avianca at least a couple of times each year to properly take advantage of your Silver status.

Outside of that, though, you can find some great award redemptions on other Star Alliance airlines, such as United Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa. The Lifemiles program is a great way for points and miles beginners to practice partner award redemptions.

Katie Genter, TPG's lead writer for points and miles, recently redeemed 8,280 Lifemiles plus $81 in taxes and fees for a one-way flight from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in Costa Rica to Mexico City International Airport (MEX). The cash price was $279, so she received 2.39 cents per mile in value.

If Katie had the Avianca Amex and taken advantage of its 5% redemption discount, she would've saved more than 400 miles and received 2.5 cents per mile in value.

Potential drawbacks to the Avianca Lifemiles Amex

If you're someone who flies with Avianca all the time, you may not find the perks that Avianca Silver status provides to be enough. Depending on how often you fly, you may be able to achieve Gold or Diamond status, negating many of the benefits of this card.

I won't dock too many points from the Avianca Lifemiles Amex for only offering two lounge visits per year since this isn't a premium airline card. Still, it could be a drawback for someone who considers having lounge access a top priority.

Finally, this card doesn't offer the strongest earning rates. It earns decently on Avianca purchases, but it's outclassed by many general travel rewards cards that earn more rewards per dollar spent on flights.

Avianca Lifemiles Amex vs. Avianca Lifemiles Amex Elite

The Avianca Lifemiles Amex's older sibling is the Avianca Lifemiles American Express® Elite Card, a more premium option with a $249 annual fee (see rates and fees).

Both cards offer Avianca Silver status, but the Avianca Amex Elite offers additional perks beyond this, including:

• Up to 6,000 bonus miles annually, deposited as 500 miles per month
• 10% of your miles back on Star Alliance redemptions
• An up to 25% discount on Avianca redemptions
• 3 miles per dollar spent on Avianca purchases
• 2 miles per dollar spent on dining and travel, instead of dining and groceries

According to TPG's April 2026 valuations, 6,000 Lifemiles are worth $84. That won't put too much of a dent in the Avianca Amex Elite's annual fee, and its other perks are hard to put a value on. Personally, I'd stick with the Avianca Lifemiles Amex.

Is the Avianca Lifemiles Amex worth it?

If you're a big fan of Avianca or you fly frequently with Star Alliance airlines, I recommend seriously considering the Avianca Lifemiles Amex. It isn't the strongest or most well-rounded card around, but it offers enough to the right cardholder. Just keep in mind that you'll want to fly with Avianca a couple of times a year to properly take advantage of Avianca Silver status.

When to apply for the Avianca Lifemiles Amex

Currently, new Avianca Lifemiles Amex cardholders can earn 40,000 miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening.

According to TPG's valuations, that welcome offer is worth $560.

Remember: Since this card isn't issued by Amex, you won't need to worry about Amex's once-per-lifetime welcome bonus rule.

Other cards to consider if you don't want the Avianca Lifemiles Amex

If the Avianca Lifemiles Amex doesn't quite sound like the right fit for you, consider one of these options instead:

• If you want a card that earns more on flights: The American Express Platinum Card earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly or through American Express Travel® (on the first $500,000 in spending per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent). Those American Express Membership Rewards points can be transferred to Avianca Lifemiles. To learn more, check out our full review of the Amex Platinum.
• If you want a card with better earnings on dining and groceries: The Citi Strata Premier® Card (see rates and fees) earns transferable Citi ThankYou Rewards points on dining and groceries. Citi has more than 20 transfer partners, including Avianca Lifemiles. To learn more, check out our full review of the Citi Strata Premier.
• If you want a flat-rate rewards card: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card earns 2 miles per dollar spent on almost all purchases, making it a great card for a simple wallet. Its miles can be transferred to 15-plus partners, including Avianca Lifemiles. To learn more, check out our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards.

For additional options, browse our picks for the best travel cards.

Bottom line

For Avianca fans, the Avianca Lifemiles Amex is a solid option. It requires a moderate commitment to the airline, but you don't need to fly with Avianca exclusively to get a lot of value.

If you already hold Avianca Gold or Diamond status, I'd consider a card that earns transferable rewards on flights or general travel instead. Otherwise, the Silver status that comes with this card can go a little way toward making your experiences with Avianca more enjoyable.

Apply here: Avianca LifeMiles American Express Card

From bonus points on your next hotel stay to sales on award tickets, we're always looking for travel deals that help you earn more points and miles and redeem them for maximum value. In other words, we want to help you book the vacation of your dreams.

This week, we found lie-flat seats to Switzerland for just 50,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points and an up to 150,000-mile welcome bonus on this new business credit card. Plus, you can now book a chic new Hyatt property in Greece and WorldHotels' new glamping collection with points.

We help our readers each week by rounding up promotions so they don't have to scour the internet for the best reward redemptions and offers. This includes everything from frequent flyer programs and hotel rewards programs to credit card offers and rental car deals. Here's our latest list of noteworthy new points and miles promotions for April.

Airline loyalty program promotions (April 2026)

Airline loyalty programs can offer trip discounts on specific dates, the opportunity to earn more points or miles for future travel, and exclusive deals to accumulate points or miles toward elite status. Below are some of the best offers we found for April.

Save 30% on SAS EuroBonus redemptions

If you collect SAS EuroBonus points and are planning a trip to Scandinavia, this deal is for you — but you'll need to act fast.

Through April 19, you can save 30% on eligible award flights, including both one-way and return journeys in Economy Bonus and Business Bonus, as long as you complete travel by May 31. Children aged 2 to 11 can fly for half the discounted price. Find more details here.

Earn 10,000 bonus Avios on a vacation package

Here's another limited-time offer, this time for 10,000 Avios — worth $140 by TPG's April 2026 valuations. Avios are a versatile currency that can be transferred from most major credit card rewards programs and redeemed on several different airlines.

Eligible British Airways Club members can score 10,000 bonus Avios when they book a vacation package of at least five nights, including a flight and hotel or flight and car rental, through British Airways Vacations. That's in addition to the Avios you would normally earn through the platform.

Register here first, then book your package by April 20 and travel by Dec. 18.

Related: Best ways to redeem British Airways Avios: From flights to Hawaii to island hopping in the Caribbean

Hotel loyalty program promotions (April 2026)

Hotel loyalty programs occasionally offer discounted stays and new ways to earn extra points. Here are some April deals to consider when booking your next stay.

Double your Accor points in North America

Accor Live Limitless members, be sure to check out this offer.

You can earn double base points (not including elite status bonuses and status points) on an eligible stay of two-plus nights at a participating hotel in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Panama or Brazil. Even if you don't have any trips planned to these regions, we recommend always registering for hotel promotions in case your plans change.

Activate this offer and see the list of participating hotels here. Then book by Aug. 8 and complete your stay by Sept. 8.

Related: Best hotel credit cards

Credit card promotions (April 2026)

Card issuers offer deals and discounts on a wide range of products, from airfare to dining. Here are some of the offers we've rounded up this week. Note that you must activate these offers on your card and use the enrolled card to make the purchase in order to earn bonus rewards. Not all offers may be available on your account.

Targeted Amex Offer at Norwegian Cruise Line

If a cruise is in your 2026 travel plans, Norwegian Cruise Line has something for every type of traveler. And this offer, which we found on the American Express® Gold Card, could help you save up to 20% on your next sailing.

Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend a minimum of $1,000 on qualifying purchases at ncl.com or 1-888-438-7114 by June 30.

Targeted Amex Offer at Hyatt

If you'd rather sleep in a bed that's firmly on the ground, check your account for this Amex Offer at Hyatt.

You can get $75 back as a statement credit when you spend a minimum of $300 at select Hyatt Hotels & Resorts worldwide by June 30. You must book directly through Hyatt's website or mobile app, and prepaid rates are not eligible.

Targeted Amex Offer at Hotels.com

We've also seen an Amex Offer for bonus Membership Rewards points instead of cash back on a hotel stay, and it could be pretty lucrative. Membership Rewards is one of the most valuable transferable rewards programs, thanks to its impressive roster of airline and hotel transfer partners.

If targeted, you can earn 10 additional points per dollar spent on qualifying prepaid hotel bookings through Hotels.com, up to a cap of 10,000 points. That's worth $200 by our April 2026 valuations. You must book through hotels.com/amexbusiness by June 30.

Targeted Chase Offer at Best Western

Chase also has an offer to help you save on your next stay. You can get 10% cash back, up to $32, after spending $100 or more at Best Western before May 24. This offer is valid only at participating brands in-store in the U.S. and online at bestwestern.com.

Related: Your ultimate guide to saving money with Amex Offers

Ongoing travel deals

In addition to these new offers, many others from previous weeks are still available:

• Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards members who live within 75 miles of Snapdragon Stadium can get 100 bonus points for every goal scored at home by the local professional soccer teams. Register for the San Diego FC (men's team) promotion and the San Diego Wave FC (women's team) promotion separately.
• Earn double I Prefer Hotel Rewards points on qualifying stays of two or more nights when you register, book and stay by April 30.
• Earn 5,000 bonus Wyndham Rewards points and save up to 25% on cash rates when you stay two or more consecutive nights at participating Caesars Rewards properties. Book by April 30 for stays through Sept. 1; blackout dates apply.
• Earn 25,000 bonus points on a four-plus-night vacation package at any Hawaii or Florida property participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Book by April 30 for travel through Oct. 31.
• Wyndham Rewards members can earn triple points on packages that include a hotel stay and flights or a cruise. Plus, you can save up to 20% on select sailings. Book your qualifying package through the Wyndham Travel Bundles site by April 30, and complete your trip by Dec. 31.
• Earn 7,500 Wyndham Rewards bonus points for every two qualifying nights stayed, up to 30,000 bonus points. Plus, Wyndham Rewards credit and debit card holders and Insider subscribers can earn an additional 7,500 bonus points after just two qualifying nights. Register first, then book through Wyndham channels by May 9 and complete your stay(s) by June 30.
• Earn a $50 Best Western gift card (up to three gift cards maximum) when you stay three nights at any Best Western-branded hotel in the U.S., Canada or the Caribbean by May 10. Be sure to register before you book.
• Double your base point earnings at Homes & Hideaways, World of Hyatt's vacation rental brand, for qualifying stays completed by May 31. No registration is required for this promotion.
• With this offer, you can earn five times the usual Miles & More miles on stays at over 8,000 Wyndham Rewards properties. Sign in to your Wyndham Rewards account and change your earning preference to Miles & More miles, then book by May 31 and stay by Aug. 31.
• With National Car Rental Emerald Club's "One Two Free" promotion, you can earn one promotional free day for every two eligible rentals between April 6 and June 7. To qualify, a rental must be at least two consecutive days in the midsize or larger vehicle class. Preregister online.
• Earn 2,000 World of Hyatt bonus points per night stayed — up to 60,000 bonus points total — at Under Canvas locations and select other properties. Register for this offer by June 30, and complete your stay(s) by July 1.
• Get 20% of your World of Hyatt points back on award stays at participating Las Vegas hotels and resorts when you register, book and stay by July 31.
• From June 1 to Aug. 31, you can earn 50% more Miles & More points and elite status qualifying points when you fly premium economy on Lufthansa or its partners. To take advantage of this promotion, simply book through the participating airline's website with your Miles & More number.
• New members of the Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards program can save up to $50 on their next flight simply by joining the program by Dec. 31. U.S. residents outside Alaska, California and Hawaii can register here for their discount code; residents of Alaska, California and Hawaii can register here.
• Earn 5,000 bonus Hyatt points on each stay of five-plus nights at participating Hyatt House and Hyatt Studios properties. Register, book and stay by Dec. 31.

Targeted Amex Offers

• Get $100 back as a statement credit after spending at least $500 on Delta Air Lines flights originating in the U.S. by April 30.
• Earn $100 back when you spend $500 or more on room rate and lift ticket purchases at participating Vail Resorts properties by April 30.
• Earn 5,000 additional Membership Rewards points or a $30 statement credit when you spend a minimum of $250 on Airbnb purchases by May 5.
• Earn a $500 statement credit when you spend at least $2,000 on safari reservations by calling 800-642-2861 by May 15.
• Get $225 back as a statement credit after you spend at least $1,500 on flight purchases made on Icelandair's website. Flights must originate in the U.S. and be purchased by May 24.
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend a minimum of $1,000 at participating Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy properties. This offer expires May 24.
• Earn a $40 statement credit after spending at least $200 at participating Caesars Rewards properties in Las Vegas, Reno, Lake Tahoe and Atlantic City by May 24.
• Earn a one-time $50 statement credit after spending a minimum of $250 on qualifying room rate and room charge purchases at select IHG Hotels & Resorts by May 26. Eligible locations include properties in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, the U.K., Japan and Germany.
• Get a $100 statement credit when you make a single Sixt car rental purchase of $500 or more on the Sixt website by May 31.
• Earn a $100 statement credit after you make a single purchase of $500 or more on Sixt car rentals online at sixt.com by May 31.
• Get $100 back after spending at least $500 on qualifying purchases of cruise reservations booked through Carnival Cruise Line (or a Carnival travel adviser) by June 2.
• Earn an additional 5 points per dollar spent on qualifying purchases of cruise reservations made online at the Oceania Cruises website, by calling 855-623-2642 or through an Oceania Cruises travel adviser by June 10.
• Get $60 back after spending $600 on one or more qualifying purchases at participating Sonesta hotels in the U.S. and U.S. territories. Book at sonesta.com by June 20.
• Earn a $150 statement credit after you spend a minimum of $375 at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties in the U.S., the Caribbean, Canada and Mexico before July 22.

Targeted Chase Offers

• Get 10% back on your Air India purchase, up to a $50 cash-back maximum, when you spend $100 or more by April 30.
• Earn 8% cash back (up to $10 total in cash back) on your first two payments at Viator or Tripadvisor Experiences through April 30. This offer is valid online only at viator.com and/or tripadvisor.com/attractions.
• Earn $30 cash back on your Turo purchase of $150 or more by April 30.
• Earn 10% cash back at Hyatt's Unbound Collection when you spend $375 or more by April 30, up to a $60 cash-back maximum.
• Get 15% back on a Park Hyatt stay when you spend $450 or more by April 31, with a $70 cash-back maximum.
• Get 10% cash back on room rates and room charges at select Caesars Rewards properties in Atlantic City, New Jersey, as well as in Las Vegas, Reno and Lake Tahoe, Nevada; you can get up to a maximum of $50 cash back. This offer ends May 31.

Related reading:

• The best places to visit in May
• Airfare is rising — here's how to save
• How to pick the right travel credit card for you
• 9 ways to save on your next family vacation

Chase Ultimate Rewards is one of the most valuable and flexible rewards currencies — but how you redeem your points matters just as much as earning them.

The Chase Travel℠ portal can be an easy way to book flights, hotels, cruises and more using points or cash. It can be the best option when award space is limited or cash fares are low.

However, it's not always the best deal.

Here's how Chase Travel works and when to use it.

What is Chase Travel?

Chase Travel is an online booking platform where you can search and book flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, activities and tours using either cash, points or a combination of both.

Like an online travel agency (think Expedia), it gives you access to a wide range of travel options — but with the added benefit of earning or redeeming Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

Why it can be useful

There are three main reasons to use Chase Travel:

• When award space isn't available
• When you want to earn bonus points on paid travel
• When you prefer a simple, fixed redemption value

That said, you'll typically get the most value from Chase points by transferring them to partners like United MileagePlus and World of Hyatt, so it's always worth comparing options.

Which cards unlock the most value?

You don't need a premium card to use Chase Travel — but they do unlock the highest value.

*Depending on the specific redemption, see your rewards program agreement for full details.

Because Chase lets you pool points across cards, many travelers pair a no-annual-fee card with a Sapphire card to maximize value.

Related: Better together: The ultimate guide to the best credit card combinations

How to maximize redemptions with Points Boost

Points Boost adds a layer to Chase Travel redemptions by increasing the value of points on select bookings.

Instead of relying solely on fixed redemption rates, you can sometimes get a higher value depending on the itinerary and offer available based on the card you hold.

When booking select flights and hotels:

• Sapphire Reserve cardholders can redeem up to 2 cents per point
• Sapphire Preferred and Ink Preferred cardholders can redeem up to 1.75 cents per point

Use TPG's April 2026 valuation of Chase points at 2.05 cents per point as your benchmark:

• Above 2.05 cents per point: Strong redemption
• 1.5–2 cents per point: Solid, especially for convenience
• Below 1.5 cents per point: Usually better to transfer points

This makes it essential to check each booking rather than assuming a fixed value.

Related: New favorite Chase Sapphire Reserve benefit: Stack your hotel credit with Points Boost

When should you use Chase Travel?

The Chase Travel portal works best in a few specific situations.

When to use the portal:

• Cash fares are low
• Award availability is limited
• You find a strong Points Boost redemption
• You're booking independent or boutique hotels

When to skip it:

• Prices are higher than booking directly
• Transfer partners offer significantly better value
• You want hotel elite perks or points (except for The Edit properties)

TPG analysis has found that flights booked through Chase's portal average 6% higher than booking directly, making it important to compare before booking.

Related: When to transfer Chase points instead of booking a hotel through Chase Travel

How to use Chase Travel

Booking through Chase Travel is straightforward:

• Log in to your Chase account
• Open your Ultimate Rewards dashboard
• Click Travel, then Book travel
• Search for flights, hotels, cars, cruises, activities or tours
• Choose to pay with cash, points or both

You can also book travel for others, not just yourself.

How to book flights using Chase Travel

One of the biggest advantages of booking flights through the portal is that you'll typically still earn airline miles and elite status credit, since the ticket is treated like a paid fare. That makes the portal especially useful when award seats aren't available or when fares are inexpensive.

Booking flights through the portal works similarly to Google Flights or Expedia.

You can compare airlines, review different fare types and select add-ons before heading to checkout.

As always, it's worth comparing prices across multiple platforms, including directly with the airline.

How to book hotels using Chase Travel

Hotel bookings follow the same process but come with a few trade-offs.

The portal can be a great way to earn Chase points on stays at independent or boutique properties, and Points Boost can occasionally improve redemption value. However, most bookings are treated as third-party reservations, which means you typically won't earn hotel points, elite night credits or receive status perks.

There is one notable exception: The Edit by Chase Travel, which offers benefits like room upgrades, property credits and late checkout at select luxury hotels. You'll be able to double-dip on earning Chase points and hotel loyalty points on these bookings (except Small Luxury Hotels properties, part of Hilton).

Sapphire Reserve cardholders can unlock additional value on hotel bookings, including two $250 The Edit credits on eligible stays each year and a one-time $250 statement credit for select hotels booked through Chase Travel in 2026.

And Sapphire Preferred cardholders receive up to $50 in annual statement credits for hotel reservations made through Chase Travel.

Related: Book low-end or luxury hotels to get the best value from your points

How to book car rentals, cruises and other travel using Chase Travel

Chase Travel also lets you book rental cars, cruises, tours and activities, making it possible to plan nearly an entire trip in one place.

Rental cars follow a similar booking process to flights and hotels, and Sapphire cardholders still benefit from primary rental car insurance when paying with their card — a valuable perk that can save money on coverage.

Cruises are also available to search and book through the portal, with access to thousands of itineraries across a range of cruise lines. You can typically choose to pay with cash, points or a combination of both, and some sailings may include additional perks through Chase Travel.

You can also book activities such as guided tours and experiences, which can be a convenient way to use leftover points or round out a trip.

In general, these types of bookings offer lower cents-per-point value than flights or hotels, so they're best used for convenience rather than maximizing redemption value.

Related: Save money on your next trip: Use these tips to never pay full price for a rental car

Key things to consider before booking

Before booking through Chase Travel, keep a few key factors in mind.

• Prices can vary: Sometimes higher, sometimes lower, sometimes identical
• Changes can be harder: You'll need to go through Chase Travel for support
• Perks may not apply: Especially for hotel elite status

Most importantly, always compare portal bookings with transfer partner options — particularly for premium flights and Hyatt stays.

Bottom line

Chase Travel is a flexible way to redeem Ultimate Rewards points, especially with Points Boost and expanded booking options across travel types. But it's not a simple fixed-value proposition.

For the best results:

• Use approximately 2 cents per point as your benchmark
• Look for Points Boost opportunities
• Compare against transfer partners

Used strategically, the portal can help you stretch your points and unlock trips you wouldn't otherwise be able to book.

Related: The power of the Chase Trifecta: Maximize your earnings with 3 cards

First, we saw spikes in airfare and checked bag fees. Now, the global oil crisis is leading airlines to cut routes, and it has reportedly put one of America's top budget airlines on the brink of shuttering operations.

Meanwhile, in Europe, fears are growing that airports could quite literally run out of jet fuel to power their planes.

It's a "stunning" and largely unprecedented situation, a global supply chain expert told TPG — one that could have a major impact on summer travel if things don't change soon.

Higher fares, fees just the beginning

The impact of the run-up in global oil prices (and jet fuel costs) on the cost of flying is no secret.

Fares and fees have surged over the past several weeks.

If you're booking a domestic flight three to five weeks ahead of departure, you'll pay about 15% more than you would have at this time last year. That's according to airfare data relayed to TPG on Thursday from our partners at Points Path.

And those checked bag fees that nearly all the major U.S. airlines have hiked? Don't expect those to drop even after oil prices — and airfares — fall.

But paying more to travel this summer now looks to be only part of the problem travelers could face in the coming weeks.

Concerns about European fuel supply grow

Speaking to the Associated Press on Thursday, the head of the International Energy Agency warned Europe had "maybe six weeks or so" of jet fuel left.

It's an increasingly dire shortage that could lead to massive disruptions in air travel if oil supply doesn't change quickly.

European low-cost giant Ryanair this week told the Irish Times that if the oil shortage continues to May or June, it "cannot rule out risks to fuel supplies at some airports in Europe."

The news was certainly sobering for travelers ahead of what was expected to be another busy summer for travel across the Atlantic.

Rob Handfield, a global supply chain expert at North Carolina State University, said it could mean "big trouble" for travel and the transport of key goods.

"I doubt they will completely run out," Handfield told TPG Friday. "But it is very likely that some flights may get canceled if this continues."

In fact, we're already seeing the cancellations.

Airline flight cancellations mount

European budget carrier Norse Atlantic revealed this week that it was pulling out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Swiss leisure carrier Edelweiss announced it would immediately shutter service to Denver International Airport (DEN) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

Meanwhile, Germany-based Lufthansa announced a host of cutbacks, including the shuttering of its CityLine regional subsidiary. It also accelerated plans to permanently ground its fuel-guzzling, four-engine Airbus A340-600s later this year.

For now, those cancellations have largely been due to the current cost of fuel, which has made turning a profit on those routes less likely. But if actual shortages begin to pile on top of soaring costs, expect more disruptions to arise.

Of course, it's not just European airlines that would be affected by fuel shortages in Europe.

The largest U.S. carriers have largely avoided commenting so far on what jet-fuel shortages in Europe could mean for transatlantic service in the coming months.

There were growing signs of hope for the global oil crunch. Reports on Friday indicated the Strait of Hormuz, the critical oil shipping corridor that's been blocked amid the conflict in the Middle East, had begun to reopen.

Still, concerns are far from over about the supply of jet fuel — not just the cost of it — giving pause to travelers with flights booked for the coming months.

TPG's tips for navigating the European jet fuel shortage

In a video posted Friday, TPG founder Brian Kelly offered a few tips for those planning to fly to Europe in the near future. Here's what you should do if you have a trip planned.

Know your refund rights

U.S. Department of Transportation refund rules remain in place if your flight from the U.S. to Europe is canceled. It would also apply to flights that experience a delay or schedule change of six hours or more.

You'd be owed a refund if you choose not to travel rather than accept a rebooking.

What about EU261? Here's what to know about getting compensation in Europe

Build in backup plans

Most of us would still want to go on that long-planned trip, though.

There's no telling exactly how airlines would implement schedule reductions, but I'd imagine many carriers would probably look to curtail shorter intra-Europe flights before axing long-haul departures on big planes.

For that reason, I'd build in contingency plans if you're hoping to hop around to a bunch of European cities via plane. Consider exploring rail options, or at least have a backup flight in mind — and don't cut it close if you're trying to catch a cruise or another flight.

Also, if you're still making hotel or lodging reservations, I'd aim for flexible bookings you can cancel without penalty if you run into travel woes.

Use your credit card with travel insurance to book

And if you have a credit card in your wallet that offers travel insurance protections, be sure to make your travel reservations with that card. While exact coverages vary from one card and policy to another, there's one rule that's pretty universal: To make a claim, you typically must have booked your trip with that card.

Still, you'll want to consult your benefits guide for exact coverage included in your plan.

"Flight cancellations due to lack of jet fuel or route suspensions would not likely be covered under most standard policies," insurance marketplace Squaremouth told TPG. It also noted that a "cancel for any reason" add-on could come in handy during a situation like this.

Looking ahead

Stay tuned to TPG. As we learn more about the evolving fuel shortage and its impacts on air travel, we'll be sure to update you with the latest information.

Related reading:

• When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
• The best airline credit cards
• What exactly are airline miles, anyway?
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations

Giving travel advice is like an Olympic sport for the writers and editors here at The Points Guy. I'd bet money on the notion that, between all of us, we could give you a travel recommendation or tip for nearly anywhere in the world you might want to go. I mean, it is our job after all.

So we figured it might be fun to share some of the hotels we've booked for ourselves this year, from some dream work assignments we're itching to pack for to the personal trips we're using our PTO on (reminder: use your PTO!). From small boutique hotels in American cities to luxury points hotels on the other side of the world, here are the hotels TPGers have booked (or plan to book) in the coming months.

Related: These are the hotel openings TPG is most excited for in 2026

Hotel Ulysses

"I'm excited to check into Hotel Ulysses in Baltimore during a weekend getaway this spring. I've stayed at one of its sister properties in New Orleans — Hotel Peter and Paul — and I'm excited to experience the same level of charming, quirky decor with vintage touches. Though it looks and feels like a boutique hotel, it's actually a member of Marriott Bonvoy's Design Hotels collection, and part of the American Express Hotel Collection*. Since I used my semi-annual $300 hotel credit** on my American Express Platinum Card®, I was able to get my two-night stay nearly for free since it's not that pricey. And I get to check out its jewel-box of a cocktail lounge — Bloom's Bar — with the included $100 property credit." — Lyndsey Matthews

Rates start at $130 per night or 34,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
*A minimum stay of two nights is required for Hotel Collection bookings.
**Up to $600 in statement credits annually.

Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch

"It's rare that points hotels are opened within truly iconic landmarks in The Big Smoke (London), but this hype is warranted. The Grade 1-listed monument of Admiralty Arch sits opposite Buckingham Palace at the end of the Mall, with jaw-dropping views of the Palace and Trafalgar Square. It is the first Waldorf Astoria in London and likely to immediately be the best Hilton Honors property in London, if not the United Kingdom." — Ben Smithson

Booking information is not yet available.

Lake Como Edition

For TPG Editor Lauren Wassum, Lake Como is on the books thanks to a great booking at the recently opened Lake Como Edition, which is "a rare find in an area that has such limited points-and-miles redemptions in the first place." Not only was it a great way to use valuable Marriott Bonvoy points, Wassum said, "but it also has gorgeous views of Bellagio, and the design is the perfect mix of charm and contemporary design."

Rates start at $832 or 82,000 Marriott Bonvoy points points per night.

Hilton Niseko Village

"I was thrilled to return to the Hilton Niseko Village this February, as I love its ski-in, ski-out location in the Niseko Village part of Niseko United. I booked five nights for 340,000 Hilton points after the fifth night free, used my Ikon Pass to cover my lift passes, got breakfast each morning as a Diamond elite perk and used my Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card resort credit*** to cover dinner each night." — Katie Genter

Rates start at $70 or 26,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
***Receive up to $400 in statement credits each year (up to $200 semiannually).

Park Hyatt Tokyo

"I've got a few Hyatt stays in 2026 I'm particularly excited about," said TPG's Clint Henderson. "The Park Hyatt Tokyo was my first major hotel redemption way back in 2016, and I'm thrilled to go back now that they've had a major renovation." Henderson was able to book the popular, now-reopened hotel for 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night, a great use of points ahead of upcoming World of Hyatt changes that will introduce new award pricing bands that could see luxury hotels like the Park Hyatt Tokyo cost significantly more. "I cannot wait to swim in that amazing giant swimming pool again with views of all of Tokyo."

Rates start at $700 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Park Hyatt Sydney

"Ever since I began working at TPG, my colleague Eric Rosen raved about the Park Hyatt Sydney, and I continuously found myself rereading his article offering six reasons why the Park Hyatt Sydney is one of his favorite hotel points redemptions. Last year I finally had the chance to stay myself and, for certain, confirmed it's a really special place. So earlier this year, I cashed in 115,000 points to stay there with my mom during the Sydney Marathon this coming August. Coincidentally, Rosen is also returning to the Park Hyatt Sydney in August, and made sure to book before the upcoming devaluation that will likely see bucket list Hyatt properties like this rise in price for award bookings."

— Tanner Saunders

Rates start at $700 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Six Senses Con Dao

"When my original trip to the Seychelles was derailed by the conflict in the Middle East, I was determined to still go somewhere international and use a massive stash of IHG points I'd been sitting on for the hotel. So, I swapped a dream stay at Six Senses Zil Pasyon for a different dream stay at Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam. Universe willing (since rising jet fuel costs have led to some Vietnam flight cancellations, though my itinerary seems okay so far), this will be my first time staying at a property affiliated with Six Senses, a brand I've been super curious about as a Diamond Ambassador member with IHG One Rewards. I was able to book the property for 564,000 points, taking advantage of the fourth-night-free perk as an IHG cardholder. I'm most excited about the food (I've heard it's incredible here!) and the opportunity to see turtles, as it'll be nesting season during my visit." — Christine Gallipeau

Rates start at $700 or 180,000 IHG One Reward points per night.

Related reading:

• These are the hotel openings TPG is most excited for in 2026
• Where to go in 2026: The 17 best places to travel
• Best travel credit cards of 2026

Aeroplan Credit Card overview

Chase's Aeroplan® Credit Card (see rates and fees) is one of our favorite cobranded airline credit cards, offering award flexibility and valuable airline benefits. With its strong earning rate and incentives to spend on the card beyond earning the welcome bonus, the Aeroplan Credit Card is worth considering for many points and miles enthusiasts — even those who don't live in Canada. Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

The Aeroplan Credit Card offers unique benefits we've rarely seen on other cobranded airline cards, all for a reasonable annual fee of $95.

You'll most likely need a good credit score of at least 670 to get approved for this card.

If the ability to use points on more than 50 partner airlines worldwide and automatic elite status appeal to you, keep reading.

Related: Are airline credit cards worth it anymore?

Aeroplan Credit Card pros and cons

Related: How to choose the best credit card for you

Aeroplan Credit Card welcome offer

New cardholders of the Aeroplan Credit Card can earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

This offer is worth $1,050, according to TPG's April 2026 valuations.

This is an elevated offer above the usual 60,000 to 70,000 bonus points, making now a compelling time to apply.

Keep in mind that since Chase issues this card, it's subject to Chase's 5/24 rule. If you've opened five or more credit cards in the past 24 months, you may not be eligible to open the Aeroplan Credit Card.

Related: The best credit card welcome offers

Aeroplan Credit Card benefits

One of the standout features of the Aeroplan Credit Card is automatic elite status.

Status-linked benefits

New cardholders receive Aeroplan 25K status for the remainder of the calendar year in which they're approved, plus the entire following calendar year. We recommend applying early in the year to maximize this benefit.

Aeroplan 25K status includes perks such as:

• Star Alliance Silver status (priority waitlisting and standby)
• Priority check-in and boarding
• Complimentary checked baggage (two bags, 23kg each) on Air Canada flights
• Five eUpgrade credits for cabin upgrades
• Complimentary Avis Preferred Plus elite status

After the introductory period, you can retain or build on your Aeroplan elite status through a combination of spending and overall program activity.

The card helps by contributing Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) — the primary metric used to earn and maintain status — as follows:

• 5,000 SQC headstart each calendar year
• 10,000 additional SQCs when cardholders spend $25,000 in a calendar year
• 10,000 additional SQCs when cardholders spend $50,000 in a calendar year

This means you can earn up to 25,000 SQC per year from the card.

For context, higher tiers of Aeroplan status require increasing amounts of SQC. With significant spending, the card can meaningfully accelerate your progress.

For example, spending $75,000 in a calendar year can help you reach Aeroplan 35K status.

In addition, Aeroplan offers Milestone Benefits — extra perks unlocked as you earn SQC throughout the year, typically in increments of 10,000 SQC.

While the Aeroplan Credit Card can give you a strong head start and boost, it works best alongside flying and partner activity rather than as a stand-alone path to elite status.

Non-status-linked benefits

Even if you don't maintain your elite status beyond the first year, here are all of the other benefits you'll get from the Aeroplan Credit Card:

• First free checked bag on Air Canada flights for primary cardholders and up to eight companions on the same reservation
• No foreign transaction fees
• Travel protections, such as auto rental insurance, baggage delay insurance, roadside assistance, trip cancellation and interruption insurance and trip delay reimbursement
• Up to $120 statement credit for your Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus application fee every four years
• World Elite Mastercard benefits, including access to Mastercard Priceless experiences, everyday discounts and offers, 24/7 concierge service and more

Related: Complete guide to airline status matches and challenges

Earning points on the Aeroplan Credit Card

With the Aeroplan Credit Card, you'll earn:

• 3 points per dollar spent at grocery stores, purchases made directly with Air Canada and restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services)
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases

For every $2,000 you spend on the card each month, you can receive up to a 500-point bonus (up to 1,500 points per month; maximum 18,000 points annually). These bonus points can add up if you're a heavy spender.

This benefit will come in handy if you plan on spending heavily on the Aeroplan Credit Card to maintain 25K status or elevate your status to another tier.

Related: Air Canada to debut luxe new cabins and business-class seats

Redeeming points on the Aeroplan Credit Card

For those who prefer a simple redemption option, the Aeroplan Credit Card offers Chase's Pay Yourself Back feature, allowing you to redeem points for statement credits toward recent purchases.

Cardholders can currently redeem points at the following rates:

• Travel purchases† and the card's annual fee: 1.25 cents per point
• Dining, gas stations and grocery stores‡: 0.8 cents per point

†Up to 200,000 points (or $2,500) per year

‡Excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs

Eligible purchases must typically be made within 90 days before the redemption request.

This provides a straightforward way to offset everyday expenses, especially if you're not looking to maximize award travel.

This card's Pay Yourself Back categories may change annually.

Related: Chase Pay Yourself Back categories — is it a good use of your rewards?

Transferring points on the Aeroplan Credit Card

You can redeem your points for flights to over 1,300 destinations through Air Canada's more than 50 airline partners, including Star Alliance airlines and for generally fewer points than you'd need with other loyalty programs.

Even better, Air Canada publishes distance-based award charts with tons of sweet spots to look out for. For example, you can fly from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Frankfurt Airport (FRA) on Lufthansa business class for just 70,000 points.

Alongside the Aeroplan Credit Card, if you also have a Chase Ultimate Rewards earning card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees), you'll receive a 10% bonus on every 50,000 or more Chase Ultimate Rewards points you transfer to Aeroplan (maximum 25,000 bonus points per calendar year).

Related: How (and why) to calculate award redemption values

Which cards compete with the Aeroplan Credit Card?

The Aeroplan Credit Card has a $95 annual fee, which is comparable to the price of other popular travel credit cards that earn transferable rewards. Let's compare some same-caliber credit cards and determine if the Aeroplan Credit Card is the best option for you.

• If you want more general rewards: Try the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees), one of our all-time favorite travel credit cards. While the Aeroplan card is great for fans of Air Canada and its partners, the Sapphire Preferred is a more flexible travel card. To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.
• If you value simplicity: Go for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card with its $95 annual fee. It offers a simple earning rate of at least 2 miles per dollar spent on everything, taking away the stress of remembering bonus categories and strategies to maximize your spending. You can also earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. To learn more, read our full review of the Venture Rewards.
• If you enjoy flying with United: The United℠ Explorer Card (see rates and fees) has a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year (then a $150 fee thereafter). The card earns bonus miles on United purchases and offers a plethora of statement credits. Plus, you'll get perks like two United Club one-time passes per calendar year. To learn more, read our full review of the United Explorer card.

For additional options, check out our full list of the best travel cards.

Related: Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Capital One Venture Rewards

Is the Aeroplan Credit Card worth it?

With solid perks for just a $95 annual fee, the Aeroplan Credit Card can be well worth it for the average consumer, especially if you can capitalize on the complimentary 25K status offered to new cardholders.

Even if you're not a regular flyer of Air Canada — or perhaps have never flown the airline at all — chances are that you've flown its Star Alliance partners. We recommend the Aeroplan card as a strong option for many frequent travelers so they can maximize the loyalty program's lucrative award chart.

Related: How to choose an airline credit card

Bottom line

Complimentary elite status is a meaningful perk, no matter the airline. And with Aeroplan points being one of the most valuable airline currencies out there, this credit card is an excellent way to help you book your dream vacation using points to save money on flights — no matter where you may be going.

Apply here: Aeroplan Credit Card

At The Points Guy, we're always looking for simple ways to save money and earn more rewards. One of the easiest yet often overlooked tools is Chase Offers.

With just a few clicks, you can unlock targeted discounts and cash-back deals at brands you already use. These range from streaming services and restaurants to travel and retail purchases. Even better, Chase Offers can often be combined with your card's usual earning rates and shopping portals, helping you get more value from everyday spending.

Here's how the program works and how to maximize it.

What is Chase Offers?

Chase Offers is a program available on eligible Chase debit and credit cards that gives cardholders access to targeted deals, similar to Amex Offers. These offers typically provide cash back or a percentage back as a statement credit when you make a qualifying purchase.

Like similar programs from other issuers, offers are personalized. That means the deals you see may differ from what someone else receives. You may also see different offers across your own Chase cards.

Which credit cards provide access to Chase Offers?

Most Chase-issued consumer and business credit and debit cards are eligible for Chase Offers if the primary cardholder has a U.S. address listed as their primary residence or place of business. To see if Chase Offers is available for your card, check your Chase mobile app or log in at Chase's website. Note that only the primary cardholder can see and add offers.

Some of the most popular eligible cards include:

• Chase Freedom Flex® (see rates and fees)
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® (see rates and fees)
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees)
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees)
• Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ (see rates and fees)
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (see rates and fees)

Each card may offer different options, so it's worth checking all your accounts if you hold more than one Chase card.

Related: The best Chase credit cards

How to find Chase Offers

You can find available offers on the Chase website and on the Chase app. To view your available offers on the website, log in to your account and find "Chase Offers" on the right-hand panel.

Alternatively, you can click on "Benefits & travel" on the top panel and select "Chase Offers", as shown below.

To view your Chase Offers on the Chase mobile app, log in to your account and then scroll to the bottom of the main account dashboard. You should see a section titled "Chase Offers" showing some of your current offers.

Either the website or app option will bring you to the offers currently available for you to browse.

What kinds of deals do Chase Offers have?

Offerings change daily and typically feature various types of goods and services. You may see deals for:

• Dining, including local restaurants and chains
• Retail and home goods
• Services like tax software
• Streaming services and subscriptions
• Travel and entertainment purchases

Offers typically range from about 5% to 30% back or provide a fixed statement credit after meeting a spending requirement. For example, you might receive a $20 statement credit after spending $100 with a specific merchant.

Real-world savings from Chase Offers

Chase Offers can be an easy way to save on purchases you're already making, which is something TPG staffers have seen firsthand across a range of everyday spending.

Travel writer Rachel Craft, for example, recently saved $50 on a furniture purchase at At Home by adding a 15% back offer on her Chase Freedom Flex just before it expired, and managing editor Lyndsey Matthews earned $20 back on TurboTax when filing her taxes.

Contributing editor Matt Moffitt purchased a Whoop health band (12-month membership and device) for $392 using his Sapphire Reserve, and a Chase Offer covered most of the cost (excluding tax), bringing his out-of-pocket cost down to $33.

While individual savings may vary, these examples highlight how quickly small, targeted offers can add up, especially on purchases you already planned to make.

How to redeem Chase Offers

While you don't have to enroll your card to start using the Chase Offers program, you do have to add each individual offer to your credit card. Adding them is easy — all you have to do is navigate to Chase Offers either online or through the Chase Mobile app and click "Add to card" on any available offer that interests you. Then, use your card at the specific merchant and you should see a statement credit applied to your account within 7 to 14 business days of your purchase.

Adding Chase Offers on the Chase website

Once you arrive on the Chase Offers landing page, adding an offer to your account is very simple.

If you have multiple eligible Chase cards, you'll see a "Choose your account" drop-down near the top of the screen. Note that if you have multiple sign-ins with Chase, such as one for your personal cards and one for business credit cards, you will only see cards associated with the account for which you're currently signed in.

Click on any offer to add it to your card. Then, use your card at the specific merchant and wait for your statement credit to post.

Adding Chase Offers through the Chase mobile app

Once you find an offer you would like to use in the app, the process is similar to the website process.

You can click on "See all offers" to see the rest of your offers. You'll see a "Choose your account" drop-down near the top of the screen if you have multiple eligible Chase cards.

Click on any offers to add them to your card, use your card at the participating merchant and wait for your statement credit to post.

What to know about Chase Offers

When you add an offer for a specific card, you must use that same card to redeem the offer. For example, if you add a Chase Offer to your Chase Freedom Flex, you must use that card to redeem that offer successfully.

Be sure to read the terms and conditions for each offer carefully. You only have a certain amount of time to use each offer; many come with maximum earning limits. As long as you make your purchase by the expiration date, you should receive the credit even if the transaction posts after the expiration date.

Chase Offers are rewarded as a statement credit, even if you have a card that earns Ultimate Rewards points on regular spending. This is an area where Chase differs from Amex. Some Amex Offers consist of statement credits, while others offer bonus Membership Rewards points for purchases.

One of the common threads among all Chase Offers is this condition: Payment must be made directly with the merchant. While you can still use services like mobile wallets and PayPal with Chase Offers, you can't use third-party providers to make purchases.

Finally, Chase Offers are only available on eligible U.S.-issued Chase credit cards tied to U.S.-based accounts. However, some offers may still be valid at international merchants, particularly global brands like hotel chains, as long as the transaction is processed by the eligible merchant and charged to your enrolled card.

How to maximize Chase Offers

Since new offers are constantly added, it's a good idea to go through your Chase Offers at least biweekly to review and add new offers. It doesn't cost anything to add an offer and then not use it, so you can be pretty lenient with which offers you add. If there's even a tiny possibility that you'll use an offer, you might as well add it to your card. If you use it, great; if not, it's not a problem.

Chase Offers become significantly more valuable when you stack them with other rewards opportunities. This means combining an offer with a shopping portal and a credit card bonus category to earn multiple layers of rewards on the same purchase.

For example, imagine you're booking a $200 stay at a Hyatt property. You could:

• Click through a shopping portal offering 5 points per dollar spent on Hyatt bookings
• Pay with a card like the Chase Freedom Flex during a quarter where travel earns 5% cash back*
• Add a Chase Offer for, say, 10% back at Hyatt

In this scenario, you'd earn 1,000 points through the portal, $10 cash back from your Freedom Flex and a $20 statement credit from the Chase Offer.

Instead of earning rewards from just one source, you've effectively tripled up on the same purchase.

Only the primary cardholder can see and add offers, but any authorized user can redeem them once they're added.

Chase Offers are best used for purchases you were already planning to make. Like any coupon or sale, saving 10% on something you didn't need isn't actually saving money. But when used strategically, especially in combination with shopping portals and bonus categories, they can meaningfully boost your overall return.

*Earn 5% cash back in rotating categories for the first $1,500 in combined purchases each quarter; activation required.

Bottom line

Chase Offers is one of the easiest ways to save money on purchases you already plan to make. While the discounts may not always be large, they require minimal effort and can add up quickly.

By checking your offers regularly and combining them with bonus categories and shopping portals, you can turn everyday spending into meaningful savings over time.

Related: How to maximize online shopping portals for your purchases

Delta Air Lines this week upped its premium game with the reveal of new business-class suites that'll become its future Delta One product.

But many more of its planes are getting a new on-board look — one that'll see the airline bid farewell to the "enchanted blue" seats that have been around for nearly 30 years.

The Atlanta-based carrier this week said it plans to bring its new-look cabin to more than 800 jets over the next five years, including both new planes and aircraft that Delta plans to refurbish.

Once complete, those cabins will sport darker navy-blue seats with pops of red, a celestial sky design, new mood lighting and the Delta widget displayed more prominently.

TPG first got a sneak peek of the design about 15 months ago on an Airbus A350-900, at the time a brand-new jet that was Delta's first with the updated aesthetic.

As of this week, the carrier tells TPG it has 18 planes that sport the new cabin design:

• Six A350s
• Eight Airbus A321neos
• Three Boeing 767-300s (one of which is currently getting the finishing touches of the retrofit)
• One Boeing 757-200

Expect to see many more planes get the fresh look in the coming years, though, between new deliveries and retrofitted existing aircraft.

This revamp is more cosmetic, though customers will see improved seat cushions on some planes — most notably the 757.

Read more: Delta set to unveil massive first-class cabin on its newest planes — but it's temporary

Plus, Delta is switching from faux leather to cloth seats in business class, which the carrier claims makes for a more comfortable Delta One sleeping experience.

These changes are on top of much more significant overhauls to other aircraft. For instance, there's the nose-to-tail cabin revamp planned for older Airbus A330-200s and -300s, which will get true Delta One suites for the first time — not to mention on-board snack bars.

Meanwhile, the carrier is set to receive new aircraft types over the next few years; this includes the Airbus A350-1000, which will make its debut in 2027, and the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners that Delta ordered in January.

All told, expect plenty of changes on Delta jets in the coming years.

Related reading:

• Your complete guide to the Delta SkyMiles program
• Best Delta credit cards
• What is Delta Air Lines elite status worth?
• Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
• The best credit cards to reach elite status in 2026
• How to survive basic economy on Delta Air Lines

Airlines will have to cut hundreds of daily flights at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) for this summer as part of a government-ordered effort to curb expected flight delays.

The Federal Aviation Administration on Thursday said it would require airlines to collectively trim around 12% of all takeoffs and landings at O'Hare that had been scheduled for this summer season.

The order would apply to flights scheduled between May 17 and Oct. 24.

The FAA's intervention comes amid an airline turf war that had raised fears of significant backups at ORD this summer.

O'Hare's top carriers — United Airlines and American Airlines — have added flights from ORD at a breakneck pace in recent months.

The airport was set to see roughly 19% more departures between May and October than a year ago, according to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium.

And last summer didn't go smoothly: only a little over half of flights at ORD during the peak 2025 travel season experienced no delay, the FAA noted Thursday.

The FAA had feared jam-packed flight schedules combined with lingering runway construction at the busy Chicago hub could have made for mass disruptions in the coming months.

"Our number one priority is the safety of the flying public, and that means ensuring airline schedules reflect what the system can safely handle," FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a statement.

Airlines will now be tasked with removing hundreds of daily flights already on the schedule. The FAA said it would dole out schedule reduction requirements based on last summer's schedule at O'Hare.

In a statement to TPG, United applauded the FAA for its efforts "to find a solution that makes sense for everyone who cares about O'Hare's success." The Chicago-based carrier said it would share additional information "including any next steps" after reviewing the order.

"We are pleased to have a sufficient level of flights through the FAA's process to operate a successful hub at O'Hare this summer," American added in its own statement, and said the move would reduce delays at the airport.

The carrier said it would have more information, soon, on any schedule changes.

International airlines will not be required to cancel flights.

Under U.S. Department of Transportation policy, travelers whose flights are canceled, significantly delayed or changed — for any reason — are entitled to a full refund if they choose not to accept rebooking or the new schedule. That would apply to canceled flights and schedule changes affected by this order.

Related reading:

• Best airline credit cards
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations

If you're eager to embark on a cruise and have accumulated points or miles over time, you might not have to pay for your next trip.

Here, we'll explore strategies to optimize your points and miles, leverage loyalty programs and score a discount on your cruise fare. Leveraging these strategies can help you unlock significant savings on your next cruise.

Here are the top ways to use your points and miles to book a cruise.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Should you book a cruise with points and miles?

While various options are available for redeeming your points and miles toward a cruise, it is important to note that the value you receive may not always be optimal (i.e., below TPG's monthly valuations). In the realm of travel rewards, there are often more lucrative opportunities to leverage your points and miles for flights or hotel stays, with higher value and more flexibility.

If you have American Express Membership Rewards points, Capital One miles or Chase Ultimate Rewards points, you'll often receive a redemption value of 1 per point or mile for cruises. In this case, you'd get $100 off your cruise fare by redeeming 10,000 points or miles. While this might seem high, it falls short compared to the value some travelers get when redeeming points and miles for luxury hotels or business-class flights.

Some cruise lines offer their own credit cards, while others have formed partnerships with established brands. For example, Marriott Bonvoy members can redeem 180,000 points for a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection cruise, resulting in $1,000 in savings. However, these partner options are often limited and might require loyalty to a specific travel brand.

You can always use points or miles to reduce travel expenses for any cruise vacation. For example, you can use Amex Membership Rewards points, Bilt Points, Capital One miles, Chase Ultimate Rewards points, Citi ThankYou Rewards points and Wells Fargo Rewards points to cover costs associated with airfare or hotels you may need to book in conjunction with your cruise. This often proves to be a better use of your rewards.

However, if you want to use your accumulated points or miles to reduce your cruise costs, here are several ways to book a cruise with them.

Book a cruise with credit card points and miles

You can use certain credit card points and miles to book a cruise. Typically, you're required to make the reservation through the portal provided by your credit card issuer; however, some issuers may require you to call a booking center. You might also be able to charge the cruise to your card and then redeem your rewards for a statement credit against some (or all) of that purchase.

Here's how to book a cruise on points and miles with several major credit card companies.

American Express Membership Rewards

If you have an eligible American Express card that earns Membership Rewards points, you can use those points to cover the cost of your cruise through the Pay with Points program. With this program, you can redeem Membership Rewards points at a value of 0.5 to 0.7 cents per point for most travel purchases.

However, TPG values Membership Rewards points at 2 cents each (per our April 2026 valuations) when you maximize the program's transfer partners. So, you would use them at a lower value if you use Pay with Points.

The American Express Travel portal has a user-friendly search feature that allows you to explore different cruises based on specific filters such as date, destination, cruise line and trip duration, even before you log in.

To book a cruise using Pay with Points, log into the travel portal and do the following:

• Select your preferred cruise itinerary and cabin.
• Enter your passenger information.
• When it's time to check out, enter your Membership Rewards-enrolled American Express card information and select "Yes" to determine how many Membership Rewards points your account has.
• Pay for the entire cruise using Pay with Points, or pay a portion of the cost with points and the rest with cash.

Alternatively, you can look up the cruise you want and call 800-297-5627 to book directly with the Amex Travel team over the phone.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Travel℠ portal is similar to Amex Travel, but the redemption value may be higher, depending on which card you earned the Ultimate Rewards points from:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) and Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ (see rates and fees): For cardholders who applied before June 23, 2025, redeem for 1.5 cents on all non-Points-Boost Chase Travel purchases (on points earned prior to Oct. 26, 2025, and redeemed until Oct. 26, 2027, then 1 cent thereafter). For cardholders who applied on or after June 23, 2025, redeem for 1 cent apiece on all non-Points-Boost Chase Travel purchases.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) and Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (see rates and fees): For cardholders who applied before June 23, 2025, redeem for 1.25 cents on all non-Points-Boost Chase Travel purchases (on points earned prior to Oct. 26, 2025, and redeemed until Oct. 26, 2027, then 1 cent apiece thereafter). For cardholders who applied on or after June 23, 2025, redeem for 1 cent per point on all non-Points-Boost Chase Travel purchases.

Eligible cardmembers can now book cruises online through Chase Travel and apply their Ultimate Rewards points to pay for the cruise, usually at a rate of one cent per point, though this may be higher depending on when and through which card the points were earned, as noted above.

If you have any difficulties doing this, or if you're looking for a more unusual itinerary than the search results initially show, you may wish to call a Chase cruise specialist directly at 866-331-0773. Cruise advisers are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

Your cruise adviser can set up an itinerary for you, and, upon checkout, they will ask you how many points you want to apply against your final balance.

Citi ThankYou Rewards

While you cannot redeem your Citi ThankYou Rewards points through the Citi Travel portal to book a cruise, you can redeem your points to purchase gift cards with select cruise lines such as Carnival, Holland America, Princess Cruises and Virgin Experiences. Note that redemption rates may vary by brand, but you can find up to 1 cent per point for some gift card redemptions, such as Carnival.

Capital One miles

Capital One offers more flexibility and a more straightforward redemption process than Amex and Chase. Unless you transfer your miles to an airline or hotel partner, each mile is worth a flat 1 cent toward travel.

Redeeming miles doesn't require booking through a portal, which frees you up to book your cruise directly with the company or via a travel agent to get extra perks. This option also allows you to pursue promotional package rates or discounts that may not be available through the Amex or Chase portals.

The award redemption process is straightforward: Use the card when paying for your cruise package, then log into your account and select the "Cover your travel purchases" option to apply your mileage balance as a credit toward the total amount due on your credit card statement.

You can earn Capital One miles with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Each has varying features, so do some research to decide which card is best for you.

Related: Capital One Venture Rewards vs. Capital One Venture X: Worth the extra $300 in annual fees?

Book a cruise with airline miles

You can also book cruises using some airline loyalty programs, such as United MileagePlus and American Airlines AAdvantage. However, you're only likely to receive around 0.7 cents per mile or 1 cent per mile, respectively, in value this way — well below our valuation of these airline miles.

Use points from cruise line cobranded credit cards to book

With cruise line cobranded credit cards, you can earn points for purchases that you can then use to offset the cost of your cruise booking. However, this might not be your best option for earning and redeeming points.

Here, you'll want to be sure you can use your points toward the cruise fare instead of only for onboard purchases. For instance, with the Royal Caribbean Visa Signature® Credit Card (no longer available), you can redeem 25,000 points toward your companion's cruise fare on a three- or four-night Royal Caribbean cruise, subject to certain conditions (like, for example, that the value does not exceed $500). Learn more about how to redeem MyCruise rewards points here.

The information for the Royal Caribbean Visa Signature card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Redeem Marriott Bonvoy points

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection participates in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. Members can redeem points on Ritz-Carlton cruises and enjoy elite status perks on voyages.

You can redeem at least 180,000 points toward a flat $1,000 savings on the cruise fare. After that, you can redeem increments of 90,000 points toward $500 in savings, up to the entire cruise fare. This redemption rate is approximately 0.56 cents per Marriott point, which is below TPG's April 2026 valuation of 0.75 cents per point.

Related: Best ways to earn Marriott Bonvoy points: From hotel stays and credit card spending to travel partners

Additionally, Marriott Bonvoy's Cruise with Points program allows you to cash in Marriott points for credit toward any cruise that's bookable on the Cruise with Points website.

You can redeem points in the following denominations, all valued at 0.4 cents per point:

• 63,000 points for $250 off your cruise fare
• 125,000 points for $500 off
• 250,000 points for $1,000 off
• 625,000 points for $2,500 off
• 1,250,000 points for $5,000 off

To redeem Marriott points for a cruise, call 800-596-0452.

Redeem Hilton Honors points

Hilton and Explora Journeys just unveiled a luxury ocean‑travel partnership with the launch of Hilton Honors Adventures. Travelers will have to wait until summer 2026 to start earning and redeeming their Hilton Honors points on Explora trips. But, effective immediately and through June 7, Hilton Honors loyalty program members get a limited‑time preview of the partnership with a curated set of 16 Explora Journeys itineraries. These include up to $400 in Journey Experience Credits (and $200 on other voyages), an in‑suite welcome gift and 100,000 Hilton Honors bonus points per suite.

By summer 2026, members will be able to earn and redeem Hilton points on Explora Journeys across regions, from the Mediterranean to Alaska, although the redemption rates have not yet been announced.

Related: Explora Journeys cruise ship review: Setting a new bar for luxury at sea

Bottom line

It isn't always easy to get great value for your points and miles when you use them toward cruise redemptions — at least, not the way you can with premium cabin flights. However, redeeming your points and miles for free or discounted cruise travel is possible.

That said, if you want to redeem your rewards for maximum value, it is best to avoid using airline miles or hotel points for cruises. Those are better used on flights and overnight stays.

It's a similar story for credit card currencies. Capital One offers the most flexibility of all the major issuers because you can book your cruise directly or through a travel agent. With multiple booking options, you can take advantage of additional perks and access promotional rates from travel agents and online retailers that aren't available through credit card portals. You could even stack those deals for additional savings by booking via an airline portal to earn miles.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Don't let regionally named airlines fool you. You don't have to live in the Pacific Northwest (or Hawaii) to find great value in the joint loyalty program for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, Atmos Rewards.

Take it from me. I live in South Carolina and fly most often out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) or Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP). Because CLT is my nearest major airport, I fly American Airlines frequently, which operates a large hub there.

Considering where I live and how I fly, beginner award travelers may not understand why Alaska and Hawaiian's Atmos Rewards program would be so valuable to me.

I'll let you in on the secret: Atmos Rewards has some of the best award rates on American Airlines flights, thanks to its Oneworld alliance partnership. If you're a fellow American Airlines traveler who hasn't dived into Atmos Rewards yet, allow me to share some tips illustrating why you absolutely should.

How I redeem Atmos Rewards points for American flights

While many loyalty programs have switched to dynamic pricing and watched redemption rates soar, Atmos Rewards maintains the popular award chart from the former Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan program. Therefore, you can find great value when searching for award redemptions on partner airlines.

Plus, TPG's April 2026 valuations deem Atmos Rewards points are worth a solid 1.4 cents apiece.

As someone who loves to stretch my points for multiple redemptions, I often redeem Atmos Rewards for economy tickets to visit my friends living in New York City and Louisville, Kentucky.

I frequently find award availability to fly American Airlines from CLT to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) for 4,500 to 6,000 points.

But you aren't limited to these cities. You can redeem Atmos Rewards points to fly American Airlines across the U.S. and to Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Asia-Pacific region. Award rates are based on the distance flown and the cabin you choose. You can check out Atmos Rewards' award charts here.

Using Seats.aero, I've found American Airlines premium economy seats from JFK to Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) for 35,000 points plus $18.10 in taxes and fees, and business-class availability from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to London's Heathrow Airport (LHR) for 45,000 points plus $18.10 in taxes and fees.

These are just a few examples. Pick your destination and run your own award searches to see how much value Atmos Rewards could unlock for you.

Related: Flying Starlux and Japan Airlines in business class: How I used miles to make it happen

How to earn Atmos Rewards points

Of course, you can earn Atmos Rewards points by flying on Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines, buying points or making purchases with partners.

I don't live in an area of the U.S. that either airline frequently flies to, so I earn my Atmos Rewards points with a credit card. In my case, I transfer Bilt Points earned from my Bilt Palladium Card (see rates and fees).

Atmos Rewards is a 1:1 transfer partner with Bilt, and Bilt points are the only transferable currency that partners with Atmos Rewards.

You don't need a Bilt credit card to earn Bilt points, but I frequently spend on my Bilt Palladium because it earns 2 points per dollar spent on everyday purchases, with the option to earn 4% in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases (up to $100 of Bilt Cash earned rolls over to the next year).

Atmos Rewards also issues three cobranded credit cards that earn Atmos Rewards points. These cards offer perks when flying with Alaska and Hawaiian, but this article will focus on earning points within the program.

You don't need a co-branded credit card to earn Atmos Rewards points either, but it can help you collect them faster by adding one to your wallet.

Related: How to earn Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards points

Bottom line

I've only flown on Alaska Airlines twice, but I've redeemed points within its Atmos Rewards loyalty program many times.

I discovered Atmos Rewards thanks to the Bilt program. Even if you don't fly on Alaska or Hawaiian, it could be worth checking out how you can earn Atmos Rewards points to redeem for travel. In my experience, Atmos Rewards has some of the best redemption rates on many American Airlines routes.

I'd advise any American Airlines flyer to check out Atmos Rewards and consider picking up a card that earns Atmos Rewards points to unlock its value.

According to TPG's April 2026 valuations, American Express Membership Rewards points are worth 2 cents each. This issuer's rewards currency is notably higher than nearly all points and miles programs from major airlines and hotels (per TPG's data-backed valuations).

However, this doesn't mean you'll get exactly 2 cents per point every time you redeem them. Instead, we use this number as a benchmark if you are looking to maximize your points. High-value Membership Rewards redemptions should give you more than 2 cents per point, while lower-value awards offer less than 1 cent per point.

In short, there are various answers to the question, "How much are Amex points worth?" Let's dive into how you can maximize their value.

How TPG values transferable credit card points

You may be wondering how TPG calculates the value of transferable credit card points, such as Membership Rewards — especially since these valuations are often higher than the valuations listed by the airline and hotel transfer partner programs to which you can transfer points and miles.

Having redeemed millions of transferable points and miles, TPG has developed our own proprietary formula, which includes:

• The base value of redeeming rewards directly through each issuer's portal for travel
• The value of popular cash-equivalent redemptions like gift cards and statement credits
• Any unique ways to maximize travel value directly with the issuer
• The number of airline and hotel transfer partners, balanced against the value of each partner's rewards currency
• Whether the issuer offers uniquely valuable transfer partners
• The value of the flexibility of having many options to transfer to airline and hotel programs

Membership Rewards scores strongly for the number of valuable transfer partners, offering multiple unique transfer partners and regular bonuses.

Related: Why transferable points and miles are worth more than other rewards

What are Amex Membership Rewards points worth?

There are many ways to redeem your American Express Membership Rewards points. However, they can offer a wide range of values. Some redemptions offer a fixed value for your points, while others could exceed our valuation of 2 cents per point.

*Effective June 30, Etihad Guest will no longer be a transfer partner of Amex Membership Rewards.

Related: American Express Membership Rewards: How to earn, redeem and transfer points

The value of Amex points when transferring to travel partners

You'll usually find the most valuable redemptions when transferring your Amex points to one of Amex's travel partners. Amex partners with the following 20 airline and hotel loyalty programs:

• Aer Lingus AerClub
• Aeromexico Rewards
• Air Canada Aeroplan
• Air France-KLM Flying Blue
• ANA Mileage Club
• Avianca Lifemiles
• British Airways Club
• Cathay Pacific Cathay
• Delta SkyMiles
• Emirates Skywards
• Etihad Guest (partnership ends on June 30)
• Iberia Club
• JetBlue TrueBlue
• Qantas Frequent Flyer
• Qatar Airways Privilege Club
• Singapore KrisFlyer
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
• Choice Privileges
• Hilton Honors
• Marriott Bonvoy

Amex points transfer to most airline and hotel partners at a 1:1 ratio, except for Aeromexico Rewards (1:1.6), Cathay Pacific's Cathay program and Emirates Skywards (5:4), JetBlue TrueBlue (250:200) and Hilton Honors (1:2).

You can transfer Amex points in increments of 1,000; point transfers to airline and partner programs are irreversible. Additionally, Amex charges an excise tax of 0.6 cents per point (up to $99) when transferring rewards to Delta SkyMiles or JetBlue TrueBlue.

To maximize your Membership Rewards points, we recommend transferring them to partner airlines. Here are some great ways to obtain more than 2 cents per point from your Amex points:

• Transfer points to Air Canada's Aeroplan program to book business-class flights on Star Alliance partner airlines from just 60,000 points, where cash tickets regularly exceed $3,000.
• Book business-class flights to Europe on Air France or KLM for 60,000 miles by transferring your Amex points to Flying Blue.
• Transfer points to Virgin Atlantic's Flying Club program to book flights to London starting at 6,000 Amex points.
• Pay just 13,500 Amex points for a one-way economy flight from California, Oregon or Washington state to any Hawaiian island on Alaska Airlines when you transfer your points to Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer program.
• Book flights to Spain in business class for only 40,500 Membership Rewards points from the northeast when you transfer them to Iberia Club.
• Book American Airlines domestic flights via Amex using the Qantas Frequent Flyer program. Award rates start at 9,500 points plus only $5.60 in fees and taxes.

Plus, throughout the year, Amex offers transfer partner bonuses, which could help your points go even further.

To snag the best deals, check out our guide on maximizing your Amex points with transfer partner redemptions.

Value of Amex points when redeeming through Amex Travel

While we focus a lot on the value of transferable points here at TPG, you can only maximize them if your preferred airline or hotel has award space available. If you need to travel on fixed dates — especially during the holiday season when award availability on partner airlines may be limited — this might pose a problem. If you've exhausted all other options, you can get an acceptable value by redeeming points through the Amex Travel portal.

Redeeming Amex points for flights through Amex Travel

When booking a flight through Amex Travel, you'll get a fixed redemption rate of 1 cent per point.

However, if you have any of the following Amex business cards, you can receive a bonus when using Pay with Points for eligible flights:

• Business Centurion® Card from American Express: 50% Pay with Points bonus on eligible flights; applications by invitation only.
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: 35% of your points back (up to 1 million points per calendar year) on airfare booked through Amex Travel for eligible flights with your selected qualifying airline

The information for the Amex Business Centurion card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: Best ways to use Amex points, from business-class flights to Europe to budget-friendly hotel stays

Redeeming Amex points for hotel stays and other travel

However, most other travel redemptions through the Amex Travel portal will give you about 0.7 cents per point.

For instance, with most hotels, you can redeem your points at 0.7 cents each through Amex Travel. And since these are third-party bookings, you may not earn hotel points or elite night credits for your stay.

The one exception is Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts, a luxury hotel program that's only available to Platinum and Centurion cardmembers. If you pay with points to book one of these properties, you'll get 1 cent of value per point and receive perks similar to those you would get with elite status benefits for your stay, including complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, late checkout, and usually a dining or spa credit. Plus, these stays usually earn hotel points and elite night credits.

For car and vacation rentals, you'll get about 0.7 cents per point. As for cruise bookings made through the Amex portal, you can get between 0.5 cents and 0.7 cents per point.

Overall, redeeming your Amex points through the travel portal will not yield the best value for maximizing your rewards. However, if you have a stock of Amex points sitting in your account or simply want to save on your out-of-pocket cost on a flight, hotel, car rental, cruise or vacation home, redeeming points through the Amex portal could make sense.

Learn more about booking through the American Express portal.

Redeeming Amex points for nontravel redemptions

Not all redemptions are travel-based — in fact, you can redeem your Amex points for gift cards, Amazon purchases and more. While these redemptions don't yield a high value when it comes to maximizing your points, for those who wish to save money on nontravel expenses, Amex points could be the answer.

• Gift cards: When redeeming Amex points for gift cards, you can get a value between 0.5 cents and 1 cent per point, depending on the merchant.
• Taxi rides in New York City: Redeem your Amex points for certain taxi fares in the Big Apple at a value of 1 cent per point.
• Amazon and online merchants: When you link your Membership Rewards account with select online retailers like Amazon, Grubhub and Best Buy, you can select Pay with Points at checkout and redeem your rewards at a value of 0.7 cents per point.
• Cover charges on your statement: Use points to pay for eligible account charges on your billing statement, and receive 0.6 cents per point.

How to earn Amex Membership Rewards points

To redeem Membership Rewards points, you'll first have to earn them. The easiest way to earn Amex points is by applying for a points-earning card, and Amex has several to choose from, ranging from premium cards to no-annual-fee cards that reward daily spending.

Depending on the Amex card in your wallet, you could earn between 1 point and 5 points per dollar spent, contingent on the card and the earning category.

For example, American Express Platinum Card® earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel® (on up to $500,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar) and prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases. While The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express earns 2 points per dollar spent on everyday business purchases with no category restrictions (on up to $50,000 each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent).

Therefore, with different earning rates and welcome offers, check out the current American Express card offers available to find which one is right for you so you can earn Amex points.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards for maximum value

Bottom line

Amex Membership Rewards points have long been considered some of the most valuable points on the market. They sit near the top of TPG's April 2026 valuations, thanks to many high-value airline transfer partners that allow members to book premium-cabin awards at low rates.

The value you get from your Amex points can vary significantly, ranging from 0.5 cents per point for gift cards to much higher for select transfer partners. Of course, that requires extensive flexibility and the willingness to learn the ins and outs of loyalty programs, so many cardmembers may prefer simpler reward options.

Running a business (or a side hustle) comes with plenty of expenses, and the right business card can help you make the most of every dollar you spend.

From office supplies and advertising to travel and everyday business expenses, different cards reward different types of spending.

The trick is matching your habits to the card that offers the best rewards for your business. Whether you're a freelancer, a retail owner or a frequent traveler, there's a business card that can help you earn more points, miles or cash back on the purchases you're already making.

Here's a guide to the top business credit cards and which types of business owners they're best for.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Find out your offer and see if you're eligible for as high as 300,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Comparing the best credit cards for business expenses

Here are our top picks for the best cards to use for your business expenses.

American Express Business Gold Card

Welcome offer: Find out your offer and see if you're eligible for as high as 200,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Based on TPG's April 2026 valuations, this offer is worth up to $4,000.

Annual fee: $375

Standout benefits: The Amex Business Gold Card lets business owners earn 4 points per dollar spent in their top two eligible spending categories each billing cycle (up to $150,000 in combined spending, then 1 point per dollar spent).

This card also comes with a useful up to $240 statement credits per calendar year (up to $20 monthly) for U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub and office supply stores (enrollment is required). Plus, you can transfer the Membership Rewards points you earn to one of Amex's 20 hotel and airline partners.

TPG lead writer Katie Genter likes to use her Amex Business Gold Card's flexible business credit to order food via Grubhub at least once each month.

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Gold.

Apply here: American Express Business Gold Card

The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express

Welcome offer: Earn 15,000 points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of card membership.

Based on TPG's valuations, this offer is worth $300.

Annual fee: $0

Standout benefits: Business owners earn 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on all purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent) for no annual fee. These points can be transferred to Amex's transfer partners for maximum value.

To learn more, read our full review of the Blue Business Plus.

Apply here: The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Welcome offer: Find out your offer and see if you're eligible for as high as 300,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Based on TPG's valuations, this offer is worth up to $6,000.

Annual fee: $895

Standout benefits: The Amex Business Platinum offers unrivaled lounge access for small-business owners, along with a plethora of valuable statement credits, including up to $600 in statement credits (up to $300 biannually) for Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection* bookings and up to $200 in airline fee statement credits per calendar year. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

This card also earns 2 points per dollar spent on purchases at U.S. construction material and hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, software and cloud system providers and shipping providers, as well as on eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent).

You'll also receive automatic hotel elite status with Hilton, Marriott and Leading Hotels of the World (enrollment required) and enjoy numerous shopping and travel protections.

*The Hotel Collection bookings require a minimum two-night stay.

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Platinum.

Apply here: The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Capital One Venture Business

Welcome offer: Earn up to 150,000 bonus miles: 75,000 miles after spending $7,500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus an additional 75,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 on purchases in the first six months from account opening.

Based on TPG's April 2026 valuations, this offer is worth up to $2,775.

Annual fee: $95

Standout benefits: Key benefits of the Venture Business include an annual $50 credit for Capital One Business Travel, up to $50 each year for qualifying advertising and software merchants and a $50 experience credit for every Capital One Lifestyle Collection stay. Cardholders also receive a $120 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

You'll earn 5 miles per dollar spent on hotels, rental cars and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Business Travel, and 2 miles per dollar spent on other purchases.

To learn more, read our full review of the Venture Business.

Learn more: Capital One Venture Business

Capital One Venture X Business

Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Based on TPG's valuations, this offer is worth $2,775.

Annual fee: $395

Standout benefits: The Venture X Business comes with an annual $300 Capital One Business Travel credit for bookings made through Capital One Business Travel, 10,000 bonus miles each year (beginning on your first anniversary), a TSA/Global Entry statement credit and numerous travel protections.

You'll earn at least 2 miles per dollar spent on every purchase and can redeem these miles by transferring them to one of Capital One's 15-plus transfer partners. Plus, you can add up to four authorized users at no additional cost.

To learn more, read our full review of the Venture X Business.

Learn more: Capital One Venture X Business

Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business

Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

Based on TPG's April 2026 valuations, this offer is worth $3,075.

Annual fee: $795

Standout benefits: The Sapphire Reserve for Business is Chase's most premium business card offering. It comes with perks like a flexible annual travel credit, airport lounge access, travel credits (providing over $1,200 in value annually) and excellent travel and purchase protections.

Additionally, the card has excellent earning rates, offering an uncapped 4 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked directly and 3 points per dollar spent on social media and search engine advertising.

This is a game changer for businesses with high ad spending, as most other cards with this bonus category limit how many points you can earn.

The points earned on this card can be transferred to one of Chase's hotel and airline partners for maximum value. Or, you can redeem them through Chase Travel℠ at up to 2 cents apiece, depending on the specific redemption, using Points Boost (see your card's guide to benefits for more information).

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Reserve for Business.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business

Ink Business Cash Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn $750 cash back after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $0

Standout benefits: Business owners earn 5% cash back on office supplies and select utilities on the first $25,000 in combined spending and 2% cash back on restaurant and gas station purchases on the first $25,000 in combined spending each account anniversary year (then 1% back).

Additionally, cardholders receive primary rental car insurance when booking rental cars on business trips.

To learn more, read our full review of the Ink Business Cash.

Apply here: Ink Business Cash Credit Card

Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn 100,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Based on TPG's valuations, this offer is worth $2,050.

Annual fee: $95

Standout benefits: The Ink Business Preferred card is well-suited for business owners who spend a lot on travel, shipping, social media advertising, search advertising and telecommunications. You'll earn 3 points per dollar spent on the first $150,000 in combined spending on these expenses per year (then 1 point per dollar spent).

These points can be redeemed for travel via Chase Travel at up to 1.75 cents apiece (depending on the specific redemption) with Points Boost, or transferred to one of Chase's partners for the most value. You'll also get numerous travel and shopping protections and even cellphone insurance.

To learn more, read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred.

Apply here: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn $750 bonus cash back after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $0

Standout benefits: The Ink Business Unlimited earns 1.5% cash back on all purchases. You'll also receive primary rental car insurance when booking rental cars for business purposes.

To learn more, read our full review of the Ink Business Unlimited.

Apply here: Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card

United Business Card

Welcome offer: Earn up to 110,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQPs: Earn 100,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQPs after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Plus, earn 10,000 bonus miles after adding an authorized user in the first three months from account opening.

Based on TPG's April 2026 valuations, this bonus is worth up to $1,485 (including the points from adding an authorized user; not including the value of the PQPs).

Annual fee: $150

Standout benefits: The United Business Card offers an excellent 8 total miles per dollar spent on eligible United Airlines flights.

Business owners also receive two one-time United Club passes (the primary cardholder or authorized user must be present to redeem them), plus numerous United-specific perks to enhance their travel experience. This includes a free checked bag for the primary cardmember and one companion and priority boarding.

Additionally, cardholders will receive a handful of statement credits that help offset the card's annual fee.

To learn more, read our full review of the United Business Card.

Apply here: United Business Card

For side hustlers: A credit card with a flat earning rate

You don't have to own a brick-and-mortar store to apply for a business credit card. Whether you're a Lyft driver on the weekends or run a small Etsy store in your free time, you can rack up rewards on your business expenses.

If you don't have a large budget for monthly business purchases, there are two things to look for in a business card: a flat rewards rate and a low annual fee.

Some top choices include:

• Amex Blue Business Plus
• Capital One Venture Business
• Ink Business Cash

These are exceptional options if you also have an eligible personal card that earns American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One miles or Chase Ultimate Rewards. Each issuer lets cardmembers pool rewards between their personal and business accounts, so you can combine them for maximum redemption value.

Related: Who qualifies for a business credit card?

For office startups: A card with related bonus categories

Multiple business cards offer rewards in spending categories such as office supplies and wireless services. If you run your business out of an office, you can use these cards to earn a great return on your business expenses.

The list of potential bonus categories includes purchases with or on:

• Cellphone service providers (when paying your monthly bill with your card)
• Dining
• Electronic goods retailers
• Gas and electric vehicle charging
• Media providers for advertising in select online, TV and radio media
• Software and cloud system providers
• Transit purchases, including buses, subways, taxicabs and trains

Some top options include:

• Amex Business Gold (bonus categories may be limited to spending in the U.S.)
• Capital One Venture X Business
• Ink Business Preferred

Related: Best rewards credit cards

For retail business owners: A card that offers rewards for advertising

Whether you own a boutique or an e-commerce site, chances are you spend money every month to advertise your business. These expenses can add up, so it's worth earning as many points as possible.

Some popular credit cards for advertising expenses include:

• American Express Business Gold (in the U.S.)
• Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business
• Ink Business Preferred

Related: Best credit cards for advertising

For frequent business travelers: A cobranded card

If you tend to fly the same airline or stay at the same hotel brand multiple times per year, a cobranded business credit card is a great option.

You'll get bonus points or miles on every dollar spent with the airline or hotel chain associated with the card. Plus, you'll also enjoy additional perks like free checked bags, preferred boarding and easier paths to elite status.

Some popular cobranded airline cards include:

• Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees)
• Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card
• United Business Card

A hotel card is a better option if you don't often fly with the same airline but stay with the same hotel brand. A few popular options include:

• Amex Business Platinum
• Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
• The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
• World of Hyatt Business Credit Card (see rates and fees)

Related: Business cards vs. personal cards: Key differences

Bottom line

The best business credit card for you depends on how — and where — you spend. While each card offers different perks, all of them can help streamline your finances and earn rewards on everyday business expenses.

Best of all, if you own a personal credit card with the same issuer, you might be able to combine points or unlock added travel benefits.

Just like with personal cards, choosing a business card comes down to understanding your spending habits and reward goals. Take time to reflect on these factors before you make a decision.

Related: How to pick a strategy for your small-business credit cards

For rates and fees of the Amex Business Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Blue Business Plus Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum Card, click here.

The first of Hilton's new apartment-style accommodations are now open for booking, offering a new way for Hilton Honors fans to stay with points.

The Apartment Collection by Hilton, which the company first announced in January, allows travelers to book spaces ranging from studios to four bedroom apartments. The brand is being rolled out in partnership with apartment hotel rental company Placemakr, which boasts properties in cities across the country, including New York, Phoenix, Washington D.C. and beyond.

To start, fans of the brand can book stays in two different buildings in Atlanta and Salt Lake City.

In Atlanta, the Scout Living PCM - Placemakr Atlanta, Apartments by Hilton sits in the city's Old Fourth Ward, connected directly to the Ponce City Market, and features in-unit laundry and a heated rooftop pool. Reservations are being accepted for stays beginning June 15 with rates starting at $127 per night with a Hilton Honors discount or 40,000 points, according to a search by TPG.

In Utah, the Placemakr Salt Lake City Downtown, Apartments by Hilton boasts a 24/7 fitness center, an on-site conference room and on-site parking. Reservations there are being accepted for stays beginning Aug. 15 with rates starting at $164 per night with a Hilton Honors discount or 52,000 points.

With the Apartment Collection, stays are expected to include convenient amenities like kitchens, laundry access and on‑site fitness centers, and may come with perks like rooftop pools and terraces or communal work spaces.

This isn't the only new brand Hilton has launched recently. Last year, the hotel company debuted its first Outset Collection by Hilton property in Moab, Utah, along with its Hilton Honors Adventures category with options including luxury cruises and glamping.

Related reading:

• The 22 best Hilton hotels in the world
• Ultimate guide to the Hilton Honors loyalty program
• Yotel will join Hilton's new Select by Hilton brand
• Sneak peek at the first Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy Resort in the US

The Aeroplan® Credit Card (see rates and fees) from Chase is a valuable cobranded airline credit card that offers cardholders ongoing value for a low annual fee.

Before you assume the Aeroplan card is only for those who reside in Canada, understand that this loyalty program can be very valuable.

Plus, for a limited time, the Aeroplan card is providing an elevated bonus for new cardholders that's worth over $1,000 in value, per TPG's April 2026 valuations, making it an excellent time to apply if you're interested.

Let's analyze the current Aeroplan card welcome bonus and its value to decide if it's a good choice for your wallet.

Aeroplan card welcome offer

The $95-per-year Aeroplan card is offering new cardholders a solid offer: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. This offer ends on June 10.

TPG's April 2026 valuations place Aeroplan points at 1.4 cents apiece, making this welcome offer worth $1,050.

The typical offer on this card provides 50,000 to 60,000 points, so anything from 75,000 points and above is worth considering — making now a great time to apply if you've been eyeing it.

Keep in mind that this card is affected by Chase's 5/24 rule, which means you will likely not be approved if you have been approved for five or more cards in the past 24 months, regardless of which issuer they're from.

If you are eligible, check out our ideas for quickly meeting a minimum spending requirement, including prepaying insurance, rent or taxes to earn the entire welcome offer.

Related: How my travel credit cards keep me on the go within a modest budget

Aeroplan card earning rates

The Aeroplan card is worth more than just the welcome bonus. The card is a strong earner in spending categories and accrues points at the following rates:

• 3 points per dollar spent at grocery stores, purchases made directly with Air Canada and restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services)
• 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases

Additionally, cardholders will get a 500-point bonus for every $2,000 spent on the card per calendar month, up to 1,500 bonus points per month. This is a particularly nice benefit while you work toward hitting the minimum spending requirement for this card's welcome offer.

Related: Maximizing credit cards to become points-rich without spending a ton

Aeroplan card key benefits

Beyond the points that you can earn, the Aeroplan card also offers several interesting benefits:

• Automatic Aeroplan 25K elite status for the year in which you open the card and the following calendar year (spend $15,000 annually on the card to maintain 25K status)
• First free checked bag on Air Canada-operated flights, along with up to eight companions on the same reservation
• No foreign transaction fees
• Travel protections, such as auto rental insurance, baggage delay insurance, roadside assistance, trip cancellation and interruption insurance and trip delay reimbursement
• Up to $120 statement credit for a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus application every four years
• World Elite Mastercard benefits, including access to Mastercard Priceless experiences, everyday discounts and offers, 24/7 concierge service and more

Related: Credit card perks and benefits you should be using this month

Bottom line

The Aeroplan card is one of the most compelling airline credit cards on the market. Not only does it confer automatic elite status on new cardholders, but it also earns points quickly and offers great day-of-travel perks, including a statement credit for a TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or Nexus membership. You get all of that for just a reasonable $95 annual fee.

Plus, the card's current offer provides stellar first-year value, thanks to its 75,000 bonus points. Aeroplan points are some of the most valuable in the market, and the program has over 50 airline partners, making it one of the most versatile currencies on the market.

To learn more, read our full review of the Aeroplan card.

Apply here: Aeroplan card

Alaska Airlines' new Atmos Rewards loyalty program has preserved what made the former Mileage Plan program so beloved: a published partner award chart with fairly reasonable redemption rates, distance-based sweet spots and free one-way stopovers.

Pair that with a new premium credit card with a huge welcome offer, and there's never been a better time to learn just how valuable Atmos Rewards points can be.

The Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® credit card is offering 100,000 bonus points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,500 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening. Additionally, new cardholders will receive a 50% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening their account.

That many points open up endless travel possibilities. Whether you book a lie-flat round-trip flight across the Atlantic or short domestic flights, here are 10 ways you can redeem up to 100,000 Atmos Rewards points.

Related: Why this is the most rewarding airline card for international travelers

The best ways to redeem 100,000 Atmos Rewards points

With Alaska Airlines being a member of the Oneworld alliance — while also maintaining some unique airline partnerships — you'll likely get the best value from your Atmos Rewards points by redeeming them for flights on partner airlines.

Aer Lingus lie-flat business-class seats to Ireland

One of the best-value ways to use Atmos Rewards points is to book Aer Lingus business-class seats from the East Coast to Ireland. Fly from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK); Boston Logan International Airport (BOS); Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington, D.C.; and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), among other U.S. airports, to Dublin Airport (DUB) starting at 45,000 points (not including taxes and fees).

If you find availability, you can potentially secure a round-trip flight in a lie-flat seat for just 90,000 points. That still leaves 10,000 Atmos Rewards points in your balance, which could use to cover a short hop elsewhere or a positioning flight.

Related: What it's like flying Aer Lingus' Airbus A321XLR to Ireland

American Airlines premium cabin seats to London

If London is calling, you can fly American Airlines' new Flagship Suite operating on select Boeing 787-9 flights from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) or Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to London's Heathrow Airport (LHR) starting at 55,000 Atmos Rewards points each way (plus taxes and fees).

Japan Airlines premium cabin seats to Tokyo

Atmos Rewards members can unlock seats in Japan Airlines' business class from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Tokyo's Narita International Airport (NRT) starting at 60,000 points each way. While a true round-trip ticket comes to 120,000 points, you could book the outbound in business class and the return in premium economy for 100,000 Atmos Rewards points. With that combination, you'd still get the best of both worlds: lie-flat comfort one-way and a solid premium economy product on the way home.

Alternatively, if you're traveling from the East Coast, consider a round-trip, nonstop flight in Japan Airlines' swanky Airbus A350-1000 aircraft from JFK to NRT starting at 100,000 Atmos Rewards points for premium economy.

Related: First look at Japan Airlines' new premium economy on the Airbus A350-1000

Cathay Pacific's new Aria Suite to Hong Kong

Book Cathay Pacific's new Aria Suite business class, currently operating from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in British Columbia to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), starting at 75,000 Atmos Rewards points one-way. This refreshed cabin offers more privacy, sculpted shells and modern touches like customizable lighting and expanded storage.

The wide seats convert into fully flat beds, and they come with upgraded bedding. Meals are also artfully plated.

With its suitelike feel and high-end finishes, Aria raises the bar for long-haul business class on this already impressive Asian carrier.

Fiji Airways premium cabin seats to Fiji and Australia

With Atmos Rewards' generous stopover rules, you can turn a trip on Fiji Airways into a two-in-one adventure. Fly from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Fiji's Nadi International Airport (NAN) in business class, enjoy tropical Fiji for a few days and then continue to Australia on the same ticket from 85,000 points.

Once you're Down Under, you could use your remaining 15,000 Atmos Rewards points to fly Oneworld partner airline Qantas, which offers astonishingly affordable short-haul Atmos Rewards redemptions. If you wanted to add on a trip to New Zealand, you could fly round-trip in economy from Sydney Airport (SYD) to New Zealand's Auckland Airport (AKL) from just 15,000 Atmos Rewards points.

Related: 5 things I loved about flying Fiji Airways business class

Qantas premium economy seats to Australia

Australia is notoriously tough when it comes to finding business-class award availability, so consider booking premium economy. Qantas' premium economy strikes a nice balance between extra legroom, wider seats, better catering and priority airport services.

With Atmos Rewards points, you can book a round-trip from the U.S. to Australia's Melbourne Airport (MEL), Brisbane Airport (BNE) or SYD starting at 110,000 Atmos Rewards points for premium economy.

While not as glamorous as Qantas' lie-flat business-class seats, premium economy still makes the more than 14-hour trek much more pleasant.

Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines economy seats to Hawaii

If you'd prefer to keep things closer to home, Atmos Rewards points unlock terrific value when booking flights to Hawaii. Flights from West Coast airports to Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in economy start at only 15,000 points each way when flying either Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines.

You could take a whole family of five round-trip to Hawaii with one credit card's welcome bonus.

Hawaiian Airlines' new Boeing 787 business class to Hawaii

If you want to try out a new premium cabin without leaving the country, Hawaiian Airlines now flies its fancy, new Boeing 787 Dreamliner on select routes between West Coast airports, including LAX and San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and HNL. These aircraft feature the airline's innovative Leihoku Suites, offering direct-aisle access, lie-flat seats and sliding privacy doors, all with the Aloha warmth of Hawaiian service — an upgrade compared to Hawaiian's older wide-body cabins.

Using Atmos Rewards points, award rates start at 40,000 points each way in business class when departing from LAX or SFO. Thus, a round-trip flight starts at 80,000 Atmos Rewards points.

Related: We got a sneak peek at Hawaiian Airlines' stunning new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

American Airlines economy seats across the US

Another underrated use of Atmos Rewards points is for booking domestic flights under 700 miles on American Airlines. As a partner airline, these flights can cost just 4,500 Atmos Rewards points each way, meaning you can get an incredible 22 one-way trips or 11 round-trips out of your 100,000-point balance. If you often need positioning flights to reach partner gateways or just want quick weekend getaways, this option delivers constant value.

American Airlines, Aer Lingus and Iberia economy seats to Europe

Finally, you can cross the Atlantic in economy starting from only 22,500 points each way on partner airlines like Aer Lingus, American Airlines and Iberia. That works out to two round-trips for 90,000 Atmos Rewards points, with 10,000 points left over. It's not glamorous, but it's a reliable way to stretch the Atmos Rewards Summit's 100,000-point welcome bonus across multiple international vacations.

This award rate is also available to book through British Airways Club, but the airline imposes hefty surcharges, so look for other partner options to Europe instead.

Related: Alaska Trifecta: Why I signed up for the new premium Atmos Rewards Summit credit card

Bottom line

With 100,000 Atmos Rewards points, you can book a lie-flat business-class seat to Ireland and back; a part-premium economy, part-business-class ticket to Asia; or even several round-trip flights to Hawaii. The partner award chart, distance-based sweet spots and free stopovers make Atmos Rewards one of the most powerful airline currencies.

The Atmos Rewards Summit currently offers an incredible 100,000 bonus points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,500 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening. New cardholders will also receive a 50% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening their account. That's enough to unlock great value to plan your next big trip.

Related reading:

• Atmos Rewards Summit cardholders now get free, fancy cocktails at some Alaska Airlines lounges
• How to share Alaska Airlines points (for free) with friends and family — and why this new card perk is so valuable
• Alaska Airlines' valuable points — and award chart — survive Atmos Rewards: 'Not trying to hoodwink anybody'
• Why does Alaska Airlines want Boeing's largest Dreamliner?