How to use Frequent Flyer Points: No, you don’t spend a million points to fly Economy.

Have you ever considered using your frequent flyer points to book a flight?

With the high cost of air travel, using frequent flyer points can be an excellent way to save money on your next trip. However, the process of using frequent flyer points can be confusing and overwhelming, especially if you are new to the world of reward travel.

In this guide, we will provide you with the tips and tricks you need to make the most of your frequent flyer points.

The Decline of Frequent Flyer Points Value

In recent years, there has been a widespread belief that the value of frequent flyer points has diminished.

This is largely due to the increasing cost of air travel and the reduced availability of reward seats.

Nevertheless, it is still possible to discover reward seats that offer great value if you know where to look. Booking reward seats can be a bit like fishing – you need to be constantly monitoring your options, be adaptable, and make quick decisions when you find a great deal.

How to Determine the Right Number of Points to Use

One of the biggest challenges of using frequent flyer points is determining the right number of points to use. Novice flyers may find the numerous options confusing and end up wasting their points or making incorrect choices.

To avoid this, it is important to understand that the number of points required for a flight is based on the distance between two destinations and does not fluctuate based on demand or seasonality.

A good rule-of-thumb to evaluate if you are getting a fair deal is to consider the number of points required for a Business Class round trip from Australia to the farthest destination in the world for one person. This should not exceed 400,000 points of any airline frequent flyer program.

For example, a return Business Class trip from Sydney to Los Angeles with Qantas requires 216,000 points, while a Business Class trip from Sydney to London with Emirates can be done using 318,000 Qantas points.

Different Airlines, Different Point Requirements

Qantas points are not the only type of points you can accumulate in Australia. There are numerous airlines that offer various credit card points transfer opportunities, each requiring a different number of points for air travel to the same destination.

For example, a return Business Class trip from Sydney to London would cost 278,000 Velocity points or 261,000 Singapore KrisFlyer points.

TIP: The iFLYflat points calculator compares the number of points required across different airlines to fly in Business Class from Sydney to 30+ destinations - https://www.iflyflat.com.au/calculators

The key to securing those coveted reward seats and avoiding the confusion that may arise from high point prices is to understand what the right number of points to use is for your specific travel needs. This requires some research and understanding of each airline’s frequent flyer program.

Maximizing Your Frequent Flyer Points

In conclusion, using frequent flyer points for booking flights can be a great way to save money. The process may seem daunting, but with the right information and knowledge, you can make the most of your reward travel.

Remember, the number of points required for a flight is based on distance and doesn't fluctuate based on demand or seasonality. The right number of points to use will depend on your specific travel needs, so do your research and understand each airline's frequent flyer program.

With these tips in mind, you can make your next travel experience even more enjoyable.

Happy travels!

I look forward to helping you fly flat.

Cheers

Steve