If you want to travel more without spending more, Chase Ultimate Rewards might be your best tool.

These flexible, high-value points can open the door to First Class flights, five-star hotels, and unforgettable experiences around the world. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a luxury international trip, Chase points can take you further for less.

Chase Ultimate Rewards are often ranked as one of the top travel rewards currencies. That is because they offer more than just cash back or basic flight redemptions.

You can redeem them through the Chase Travel Portal at boosted rates, or transfer them to airline and hotel partners for outsized value. In some cases, 50,000 points can turn into a $1,000 flight – or even more in premium cabins.

Take Emma, for example.

She used to book coach flights with cash and stay in basic hotels.

After learning how to use Chase Ultimate Rewards, she flew to Paris in Business Class for less than $100 out of pocket. That same trip would have cost over $3,000 if she paid in cash.

The difference came down to strategy.

This guide will show you exactly how to earn, combine, and redeem Chase points like a pro.

Each section will break down the best ways to build your balance, avoid common mistakes, and unlock the full power of your rewards.

By the end, you will have a clear path to travel smarter, spend less, and see more of the world.

Earning Chase Ultimate Rewards

To travel more using points, you need to start with a strong foundation. That means earning Chase Ultimate Rewards quickly and efficiently.

The good news is there are many ways to grow your balance, especially when you combine the right credit cards with smart spending habits.

Best Chase Credit Cards For Earning Points

The key to earning more points is using the right card for the right purchase. Chase offers several cards that earn Ultimate Rewards, each with its own strengths:

Personal Cards

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Great for beginners. Earns 2x points on travel, 3x on dining, and 1X on everything else.
• Chase Sapphire Reserve®: For frequent travelers. Earns 3x on travel and dining, with extra perks like airport lounge access and travel credits.
• Chase Freedom Flex℠: Earns 5% on rotating categories (like gas stations, groceries, or PayPal) and 3% on dining and drugstores.
• Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Simple and powerful. Earns 1.5% on everything, plus 3% on dining and drugstores.

Each card works on its own, but combining them unlocks even more value. For example, pairing a Chase Freedom Unlimited® with a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card gives you access to bonus categories and higher redemption rates.

Welcome Bonuses: Your Fast Track To Free Travel

Most Chase cards offer a large bonus when you meet a minimum spend in the first three months. This can be the fastest way to earn 60,000 points or more.

For example: the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card often offers 60,000 points after $4,000 in spend.

TPA Pro Tip: Space out your applications and plan your spending so you never miss a welcome bonus.

Understand The Chase 5/24 Rule

Before applying, know this: Chase will usually not approve you for a new card if you have opened five or more credit cards in the past 24 months (from any bank). This is called the Chase 5/24 Rule, and it is one of the most important rules in points and miles.

TPA Pro Tip: If you are just getting started, prioritize Chase cards first. Once you pass 5/24, you may be locked out of some of the best offers.

The Travel Portal vs. Transfer Partners

Once you have earned your Chase Ultimate Rewards, the next big decision is how to redeem them.

You have two main options: book through the Chase Travel Portal or transfer points to one of the Chase airline and hotel partners. Each method has its benefits. The best choice depends on your goals and how flexible you are.

Redeeming With The Chase Travel Portal

Credit. Chase. Chase Travel Portal.

The Chase Travel Portal works like an online travel agency. You can use your points to book flights, hotels, rental cars, or experiences – just like you would on any travel website.

Fixed Redemption Value:

• With the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, your points are worth 1.25 cents each
• With the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, your points are worth 1.50 cents each
• With other personal cards, your points are worth 1.00 cent each

For example:

• 40,000 points = $600 in value if you book through the portal with a Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• You can book any flight with no blackout dates, just like using cash

When The Portal Makes Sense

• Flights or hotels are priced competitively
• You want simplicity and instant booking
• You do not want to deal with award space or transfer delays
• You are booking low-cost airfare and want to earn miles on the flight

Transferring To Travel Partners

Chase also allows you to transfer your points at a 1:1 ratio to multiple airline and hotel partners. This option can unlock much higher value per point, especially for international flights and luxury hotels.

Airline Partners

• Aer Lingus AerClub
• Air Canada Aeroplan
• Air France-KLM Flying Blue
• British Airways Executive Club
• Emirates Skywards
• Iberia Plus
• JetBlue TrueBlue
• Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
• Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
• United MileagePlus
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Hotel Partners

• IHG One Rewards
• Marriott Bonvoy
• World of Hyatt

Note: You must transfer points in 1,000 point increments.

Best Use Cases

• Booking international Business Class or First Class flights
• Staying at luxury Hyatt properties (Park Hyatt, Alila, Andaz)
• Using partner sweet spots (e.g., 60,000 points for a flight that costs $5,000)

Real Example:

• A one-way Business Class flight from New York City (JFK) to Paris (CDG) might cost $3,000 in cash
• You could book the same flight for 60,000 points with Air France-KLM Flying Blue
• That is a redemption value of over 5.0 cents per point

When To Transfer

• You find award availability through a Chase partner
• You want to stretch your points far beyond the fixed portal value
• You are booking premium cabins or high-end hotels
• You are familiar with the airline or hotel loyalty program rules

Best Chase Ultimate Rewards Redemptions

Chase Ultimate Rewards points are powerful, but their real magic shows up when you know exactly where to use them.

By transferring your points to airline and hotel partners, you can unlock travel experiences that far exceed the standard cash value. From lie-flat Business Class seats to luxury hotel stays, these redemptions deliver the highest return on your points.

Air Canada Aeroplan

The Air Canada Aeroplan program is one of the most flexible and powerful Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners.

It offers access to the entire Star Alliance network, including airlines like Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and United Airlines. With a hybrid award chart based on zones and distance, Aeroplan provides solid value for both short and long-haul international travel.

Star Alliance Flights: U.S. to Europe

Credit. Lufthansa. Lufthansa Allegris (Business Class)

Aeroplan is a great way to fly to Europe using points, especially on partners like SWISS, Austrian, and Lufthansa. Award pricing is often consistent and easier to book than other programs.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 35,000 points
• Business Class: 60,000 points

Example: Fly from New York City (JFK) to Zurich (ZRH) in Business Class on SWISS for 60,000 points. These flights often cost $2,500 or more.

Tips

• Taxes and fees are moderate and usually avoid high fuel surcharges
• One-way bookings are allowed and pricing is based on distance – not just region

Star Alliance Flights: U.S. to Southeast Asia, Korea, and Japan

Aeroplan shines for longer-haul redemptions to Asia, where you can fly with partners like EVA Air, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Asiana, and Singapore Airlines.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 50,000 points
• Business Class: 75,000 points

Example: Fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Tokyo (NRT) on Singapore Airlines in Business Class for 75,000 points. This same flight can cost over $3,500.

Tips

• Aeroplan allows stopovers for just 5,000 extra points – a great way to visit two cities
• Use partners to mix and match airlines within the same booking
• Award space is usually stronger the further out you book

Star Alliance Flights: U.S. to India

India is one of the toughest destinations to reach with points, but Aeroplan offers a reliable option using partners like Air India, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 55,000 points
• Business Class: 90,000 points

Example: Book a direct one-way Business Class seat from New York City (EWR) to New Delhi (DEL) on Air India for 90,000 points. This flight often costs more than $3,000 in cash.

Tips

• Aeroplan allows you to customize itineraries, combining airlines and layovers
• Be flexible with dates and routes – nonstop flights can be limited
• Consider building in a European stopover to break up the long journey

Air France-KLM Flying Blue

Flying Blue, the loyalty program of Air France and KLM, is one of the most practical and versatile Chase transfer partners. With broad award availability and a global route network, it offers solid value – especially for flights to Europe and Asia.

Air France-KLM Flights: U.S. to Amsterdam and Paris

Credit. Air France. Air France Business Class.

Booking Air France or KLM flights from the U.S. to Europe is one of the easiest ways to use your Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Award pricing can fluctuate, but starting rates are competitive and often available.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 25,000 points
• Premium Economy: 40,000 points
• Business Class: 60,000 points

Example: Book a nonstop KLM flight from New York City (JFK) to Amsterdam (AMS) or an Air France flight to Paris (CDG) for 60,000 points in Business Class. These flights often retail for $2,500 or more.

Tips

• Taxes and fees are moderate (around $200–$300 in Business Class)
• Availability is decent if you book early or remain flexible
• One-way bookings are allowed, making it easier to mix airlines

Virgin Atlantic Flights: U.S. to London

Flying Blue also lets you book Virgin Atlantic flights, which can be helpful if award space is not available through the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club site.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 25,000 points
• Premium Economy: 35,000 points
• Business Class: 65,000 points

Example: Fly from Washington, D.C. (IAD) to London (LHR) on Virgin Atlantic for 65,000 Flying Blue points in Upper Class. This route can cost $2,800 or more in cash.

Tips

• Always compare award prices on both Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and Air France-KLM Flying Blue
• Flying Blue may offer significantly lower taxes compared to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

China Airlines Flights: U.S. and Canada to Taipei

Flying Blue is one of the only programs that lets you book China Airlines, offering a great path to Asia with excellent service and newer aircraft.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 31,500 points
• Premium Economy: unknown
• Business Class: 63,000 points

Example: Book a flight from Vancouver (YVR) to Taipei (TPE) in Business Class on China Airlines for 63,000 points. These tickets can cost more than $4,000.

Tips

• Award space is limited and fleeting – search well in advance
• China Airlines is ideal for West Coast travelers heading to Asia

Flying Blue Promo Rewards

Credit. Air France-KLM. Air France-KLM Flying Blue Promo Rewards.

Each month, Flying Blue releases a fresh set of Promo Rewards. These discounted award tickets offer some of the best value in the program, with savings of 25% to 50% off standard award prices.

• Routes rotate monthly and often include flights between the U.S. and Europe
• Discounts apply to Economy, Premium Economy, and even Business Class
• Availability is limited, so flexibility is key

Example: Book a Business Class flight from Chicago (ORD) to Amsterdam (AMS) for just 45,000 points during a Promo Rewards offer – down from the usual 60,000.

Iberia Plus (Avios)

Iberia Plus (Avios) is one of the most underrated Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners.

Thanks to distance-based pricing, you can book direct flights from the U.S. to Spain for fewer points than most other programs – especially if you fly off-peak and nonstop.

Iberia Flights: U.S. to Madrid

Credit. Iberia. Iberia Business Class.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 17,000 points
• Premium Economy: 25,500 points
• Business Class: 34,000 points

Example: Fly nonstop from Boston (BOS), New York (JFK), or Chicago (ORD) to Madrid (MAD) in Business Class for just 34,000 points one-way. This flight can cost $2,500 or more in cash, giving you a value of over 5.0 cents per point.

Tips

• Look for flights from the East Coast for the lowest award rates
• Book directly through the Iberia website for the best prices
• Travel during off-peak times to unlock the lowest Avios prices
• Avoid connecting itineraries, which cost more due to distance-based pricing

TPA Pro Tip: You can also move Avios between Aer Lingus AerClub, British Airways Executive Club, Finnair Plus, Iberia Plus, and Qatar Airways Privilege Club. This flexibility gives you more options to find award space or combine balances.

Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer

Singapore Airlines is one of the most respected names in aviation, known for its luxurious cabins and top-tier service.

With the KrisFlyer program, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can unlock award seats that are often unavailable through other loyalty programs – including exclusive access to Singapore Suites and First Class.

Singapore Airlines Flights: U.S. to Singapore

Credit. Singapore Airlines. Singapore Airlines Business Class.

If you are planning a long-haul trip to Asia, booking directly through KrisFlyer can offer one of the smoothest and most luxurious experiences in the sky.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 42,000 points
• Premium Economy: 75,000 points
• Business Class: 107,000 points

Example: Book a nonstop flight from San Francisco (SFO) to Singapore (SIN) in Business Class for 107,000 points. These seats often cost over $6,000 in cash and include lie-flat seating, priority boarding, and world-class service.

Tips

• Booking through KrisFlyer gives you access to 5x to 10x more award seats than partner programs
• Availability is best 8 to 11 months out, especially for premium cabins

Singapore Airlines Flights: U.S. to Frankfurt

Singapore Airlines operates a unique fifth freedom route between New York (JFK) and Frankfurt (FRA), giving travelers access to international First Class without flying all the way to Asia.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 25,000 points
• Premium Economy: 52,000 points
• Business Class: 81,000 points
• First Class: 97,000 points

Example: Book a First Class seat from New York City (JFK) to Frankfurt (FRA) for 97,000 points. This experience includes personalized dining, top-shelf champagne, and a private cabin – often valued at over $9,000 cash.

Tips

• First Class and Suites can only be booked through KrisFlyer, not partners
• This route is a great way to sample the top Singapore Airlines product without a long-haul itinerary
• Award space opens sporadically – flexibility helps

KrisFlyer Spontaneous Escapes

Credit. Singapore Airlines. Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Spontaneous Escapes.

Each month, Singapore releases a list of KrisFlyer Spontaneous Escapes – discounted award flights available to KrisFlyer members.

• Discounts are typically 30% off the standard award price
• Travel dates and routes are limited, but value is excellent
• Great option for last-minute planners with flexible schedules

Example: Book a Business Class flight from New York City (JFK) to Frankfurt (FRA) for just 56,700 points during a Spontaneous Escapes promo – saving over 20,000 points.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club is one of the most valuable Chase transfer partners – especially if you are willing to do a little planning.

With just a few points, you can unlock transatlantic flights, partner bookings, and even First Class experiences that would normally cost thousands of dollars.

Virgin Atlantic Flights: U.S. to London

Credit. Virgin Atlantic. Virgin Atlantic Upper Class (Business Class).

One of the most accessible and well-known redemptions is booking Virgin Atlantic flights between the United States and London. Award rates are low, but keep an eye on fuel surcharges.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 6,000 points
• Premium Economy: 10,500 points
• Business Class (Upper Class): 28,500 points

Example: Fly from New York City (JFK) to London (LHR) in Upper Class for just 28,500 points plus taxes and fees. This same flight can easily cost over $2,500 in cash.

Tips

• Taxes and fees can be high (up to $800 round-trip in Upper Class), so compare to portal value before booking
• Best value often comes from one-way bookings
• Avoid U.K. departures when possible to reduce airport taxes

Air France-KLM Flights: U.S. to Amsterdam and Paris

You can also use Virgin Atlantic Flying Club miles to book flights on Air France or KLM, including to destinations across Europe.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 12,000 points
• Premium Economy: 24,000 points
• Business Class: 48,500 points

Example: Book a KLM flight from Chicago (ORD) to Amsterdam (AMS) for just 48,500 points in Business Class. This flight might otherwise cost $3,000 or more in cash.

Tips

• Taxes are generally lower than Virgin Atlantic-operated flights
• Availability can vary, so check both the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and Air France-KLM Flying Blue sites

All Nippon Airways (ANA) Flight: U.S. to Tokyo

Credit. ANA. ANA First Class – The Suite.

The crown jewel of Virgin Atlantic Flying Club redemptions is booking ANA flights to Japan. These awards are hard to beat in terms of value.

Starting award rates (one-way):

• Economy Class: 30,000 points
• Business Class: 52,500 points
• First Class: 72,500 points

Example: A one-way ANA First Class flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Tokyo (HND) can be booked for just 72,500 points. Cash prices for this experience often exceed $15,000.

Tips

• Award space is limited and requires flexibility
• Use tools like Seats.aero to search for availability
• Be patient – this redemption takes planning but offers unbeatable value

World of Hyatt

When it comes to hotel redemptions, World of Hyatt stands out as one of the best ways to get outsized value from your Chase Ultimate Rewards.

With low award prices and no blackout dates for standard rooms, Hyatt lets you turn your points into luxury stays, boutique experiences, and even all-inclusive getaways.

Hyatt Hotel Stays: Luxury for Less

Credit. Hyatt. Andaz Papagayo (Costa Rica).

Hyatt uses a clear award chart that ranges from Category 1 to Category 8 for standard properties, and Categories A to F for all-inclusive. Redemptions start as low as 3,500 points per night during off-peak dates.

Standard room award rates (per night):

• Category 1: 3,500 – 6,500 points
• Category 2: 6,500 – 9,500 points
• Category 3: 9,000 – 15,000 points
• Category 4: 12,000 – 18,000 points
• Category 5: 17,000 – 23,000 points
• Category 6: 21,000 – 29,000 points
• Category 7: 25,000 – 35,000 points
• Category 8: 35,000 – 45,000 points

Example: Book the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, a private island resort where rooms often cost over $1,200 per night, for just 35,000 to 45,000 points. With that redemption, you can get over 3 cents per point in value, along with an unforgettable travel experience.

Tips

• Off-peak dates save points, especially at top-tier resorts
• Award bookings include free Wi-Fi, no resort fees, and flexible cancellation
• Plan well in advance – availability at luxury properties is limited

Sweet Spot: Category 1–4 and Category 1–7 Free Night Awards

Some of the best value with Hyatt comes from hotels in Category 1-4, where award prices stay low and free night certificates apply. These hotels often include stylish urban properties, family-friendly resorts, and upscale international stays.

At the same time, Hyatt also offers Category 1-7 free night awards through milestone rewards or promotions. These can unlock access to top-tier properties for no cost.

Tips

• Category 1-4 free night awards are earned with the World of Hyatt Credit Card, after 30 qualifying nights, or select promotions
• Category 1-7 free night awards are earned after 60 qualifying nights or select promotions
• Combine free night awards with Chase Ultimate Rewards points to extend your stay
• Book early to secure availability – standard rooms go quickly at high-demand properties

Advanced Tips To Stretch Your Points

Once you understand how to earn and redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards, the next step is learning how to stretch your points further.

These strategies can help you unlock more travel, more flexibility, and more value – without increasing your spending.

Booking Timing And Transfer Strategies

Chase transfers to airline and hotel partners are one-way and irreversible, so timing is everything.

Best practices for timing transfers:

• Search for award space first, then transfer points when ready to book
• Use transfer partners with instant or near-instant transfers (like Air Canada, Air France-KLM Flying Blue, and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club)
• Avoid transferring to programs with high taxes and limited availability unless the deal is confirmed
• Keep a list of preferred partners and their transfer speeds to avoid surprises

TPA Pro Tip: Set fare alerts and use flexible date searches to spot award space early – especially for international or Business Class travel.

Tools For Finding Award Space

Credit. Seats.Aero. Seats.Aero Award Flight Search Tool.

Finding award availability is one of the biggest challenges in booking with points. These tools help you locate open seats, track premium cabin space, and spot the best value options across Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners:

• Seats.aero: A fast, free tool ideal for spotting last-minute and premium cabin award space. Best for travelers with flexible plans and a focus on aspirational flights.
• Roame.travel: Offers powerful filters and award alerts, letting you search across multiple programs and dates at once. Great for those planning future trips with specific goals.
• Point.me: A beginner-friendly platform that shows real-time award pricing across Chase airline partners. Useful for comparing redemption options in one place.
• Awayz: Specializes in hotel and airline award availability, including Hyatt. Great for tracking room nights at high-demand properties and optimizing hotel redemptions.

Sharing Points Within Households

Chase lets you combine points between accounts, which opens even more flexibility.

You can transfer points to:

• A spouse or domestic partner Chase Ultimate Rewards account
• An authorized user on your Chase card

Rules to keep in mind:

• Transfers must be between people in your household
• Abuse of this feature can lead to account closure
• Once combined, points can be redeemed or transferred through the primary account

Example: If your partner has a Chase Freedom Unlimited® card and you have a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, you can move their points to your account and redeem them for 1.25 cents or transfer them to airline or hotel partners.

Pitfalls To Avoid

Even experienced travelers make mistakes that can drain the value of their Chase Ultimate Rewards. By learning what to watch out for, you can avoid common traps and make sure your points work as hard as possible.

Booking Low-Value Redemptions

Chase points are worth much more when used for travel – not cash back or gift cards.

Avoid using points for:

• Statement credits or cash back (only worth 1 cent per point)
• Amazon or PayPal purchases (value drops even lower)
• Gift cards unless on special promotion

TPA Pro Tip: Aim for at least 1.25 to 2.0 cents per point when redeeming through transfer partners or the Chase Travel Portal with a Sapphire card.

Not Understanding Transfer Rules

Chase transfers are one-way and final. Once you move points to a travel partner, you cannot move them back.

Watch out for:

• Transferring without confirming award space
• Accidentally sending points to the wrong loyalty account
• Assuming transfers are instant (some partners take 1–3 days)

TPA Pro Tip: Always search for award availability first, then transfer only what you need to book.

Letting Points Sit Unused

Chase Ultimate Rewards points do not expire as long as your account stays open and in good standing. But hoarding points for “someday” can lead to missed opportunities – or worse, program devaluations.

Why this matters:

• Transfer partners can increase award prices at any time
• Travel goals can change, and points lose value over time
• A canceled or closed account could mean lost points

TPA Pro Tip: Set a reminder every few months to review your balance and explore redemption options.

Ignoring Bonus Categories

Many Chase Ultimate Rewards credit cards offer bonus points for specific categories like dining, groceries, or travel – but only if you use the right card.

Common mistakes:

• Using the wrong card for a bonus category
• Forgetting to activate 5% quarterly bonuses on Chase Freedom Flex℠
• Overusing a flat-rate card like Chase Freedom Unlimited® for purchases that earn more elsewhere

TPA Pro Tip: Use a wallet note or phone reminder to match the right card to each spend type.

Overlooking The Chase 5/24 Rule

If you open too many cards too quickly, you might get locked out of valuable Chase applications.

The rule: Chase will likely deny your application if you have opened 5 or more credit cards (from any bank) in the past 24 months.

TPA Pro Tip: Track your recent credit card approvals and plan your Chase applications early in your travel rewards journey.

Avoiding these common pitfalls helps protect your points, simplify your travel planning, and make every redemption count.

Final Thoughts

Chase Ultimate Rewards are more than just a travel currency – they are a gateway to a smarter way to see the world.

Whether you are just starting out or already familiar with points and miles, understanding how to earn, transfer, and redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points strategically can transform your travel experiences.

This guide has walked you through the most effective ways to grow your points balance, make high-value redemptions, and avoid common mistakes.

You have learned how to pair the right cards, use powerful search tools, and tap into some of the best transfer partners in the industry.

From booking luxury flights with Virgin Atlantic and Singapore Airlines to relaxing at world-class Hyatt resorts, your points have the potential to unlock far more than their face value.

With a few smart moves, your everyday spending can turn into premium travel, upgraded comfort, and unforgettable destinations.

Now it is time to take the next step.

Choose one strategy from this guide and put it into action.

Whether that means transferring points, searching for award space, or mapping out your next redemption goal, the journey starts now.

The world is waiting – and with Chase Ultimate Rewards, it is closer than you think.

Still have questions? Join Our Free Community of travel enthusiasts to ask questions, share tips, and get inspired for your next adventure. Join For Free Today and start connecting with other travelers who love to make the most of their points.

Kevin Zanes