This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Andrew Jernigan, CEO of Insured Nomads. It has been edited for length and clarity.
09.12.2024 - 19:23 / travelandleisure.com
Using credit card points for flights can be a great way to save on airfare costs, but the real secret is taking advantage of bank-issued transfer bonuses. Right now, American Express Membership Rewards members can get a 25 percent bonus when moving their points over to JetBlue TrueBlue.
Typically, Amex points transfer to JetBlue at a 1 to 0.8 ratio — which means 1 Amex point equals 0.8 JetBlue points. However, with this promotion running through Tuesday, Dec. 31, travelers can take advantage of a straightforward 1 to 1 transfer ratio, making Membership Rewards points even more valuable for JetBlue flights.
With this promotion, members can transfer anywhere between 250 and 999,999 Amex points over to JetBlue. Once the points are transferred, the transaction will be completed instantly and cannot be reversed.
JetBlue has one of our favorite rewards programs for booking free flights with points. One-way tickets can be booked for as little as 3,000 points and $5.60 in taxes and fees, though the rate will vary greatly depending on demand and the time of year. To make the flight search easier, Amex cardmembers can access Point.Me, one of the most popular award search tools, to search airfare rates with points in real time for free.
American Express, which is one of the largest credit card issuers in the U.S., offers many ways to use rewards for travel. The bank offers many transfer bonuses throughout the year, and its list of loyalty partners includes other major programs like Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Marriott Bonvoy.
“With the most travel partners of any major U.S. credit card rewards program, transferring points can take you further,” the company shared on its website.
Popular Amex cards that are eligible for this promotion and earn Membership Rewards points include the American Express Gold and Platinum cards. However, Amex cobranded cards from Delta SkyMiles or Hilton Honors won't be eligible as they earn points and miles in their respective loyalty programs. Likewise, any cash rewards cards from Amex can’t take part in this transfer bonus as they earn cash-back rather than Membership Rewards points.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Andrew Jernigan, CEO of Insured Nomads. It has been edited for length and clarity.
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