For frequent travelers and Chase cardholders, one of the most valuable questions is: “How can I maximize my points when booking flights?” Chase Ultimate Rewards® is widely recognized as one of the most flexible and rewarding travel currencies, but many cardholders overlook strategies that could significantly increase the value of their points.
This guide explains how to stretch your Chase points further, including expert strategies, partner sweet spots, and booking tips. For help, call Chase Travel at 1-855-628-4230.
- Understand How Chase Points Work
Chase points can be redeemed in several ways:
-
Through the Chase Travel Portal
-
By transferring points to airline partners
-
By combining cash + points
Chase Travel Portal values:
-
Sapphire Preferred: 1.25¢ per point
-
Sapphire Reserve: 1.5¢ per point
-
Other cards: 1.0¢ per point
- Transfer Points for Maximum Value
Chase partners include United, Southwest, Air Canada Aeroplan, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, and Flying Blue.
High-value redemptions:
-
Aeroplan business class to Europe: 60k–70k points
-
Virgin Atlantic ANA first class: ~120k round-trip
-
Flying Blue Promo Rewards
- Use the Portal for Cheap Domestic Flights
Domestic tickets often price better through the Chase portal. You also earn airline miles on these bookings.
- Leverage Transfer Bonuses
Chase occasionally offers 10–30% bonuses to partners. This increases redemption value significantly.
- Combine Cash + Points
If you lack enough points, the portal allows mixed payments while still earning miles.
- Use Flexible Dates
Flight pricing varies daily. Adjusting travel by a day or two reduces the points needed.
- Earn More Points with Bonus Categories
Use Chase Sapphire cards for 2x–3x travel points and Chase Freedom cards for rotating 5x categories.
- Compare Portal vs. Transfer Value
-
Use Portal: cheap domestic tickets
-
Use Partners: international and premium cabin flights
- Combine Chase Points
You can pool points between personal Chase accounts and household members.
- Avoid Low-Value Redemptions
Avoid gift cards, merchandise, and Amazon checkout options due to low redemption value.
FAQ
-
What is the best way to maximize Chase points? Transfer to airline partners for high-value international flights.
-
Are there blackout dates? No blackout dates through the Chase portal.
-
Do I earn miles on portal bookings? Yes, flights earn airline miles.
-
Can I transfer points to family? Yes, to household members.
-
Can I book multi-city trips? Yes, via portal or partners.
-
What number can I call for help? 1-855-628-4230.
Final Thoughts
Maximizing Chase Ultimate Rewards requires smart strategy—using the portal for cheap flights and airline partners for long-haul and premium cabins. With proper planning, Chase points become one of the most powerful tools for affordable travel.