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Welcome

Friends,

Today’s post is a little more technical, but I think it’s useful: the simple sequence I use to transfer credit card points to airline loyalty programs.

This gets at a common misstep I see—transferring points first, then realizing the seat you thought you could book isn’t actually available.

I’ve done it. Hopefully you won’t have to.

Let’s get going.

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Most transferable points (Amex, Chase, Capital One, Bilt, etc.) can’t be reversed once you send them to an airline. So the rule is simple: confirm that the award space is there before you move anything.

Here’s how I usually do it, step by step:

1. Know which airlines partner with your bank.
If I have Amex points, I’m usually checking programs like Air France/KLM Flying Blue, ANA, Singapore KrisFlyer, and Delta. With Chase, I’ll look at United, British Airways, or Virgin Atlantic. The partners determine what’s possible, so start there.

2. Search using the airline program itself.
Want to book Air France with Amex points? Search on Air France’s own site before transferring. Same with United, British Airways, etc. You want to see that the seats you’re eyeing are available at the saver or lowest-level price (which is what partners can usually book).

3. Use partner sites to check availability.
Sometimes one site is better than another. Example: I regularly use United.com to search for award space on ANA and Lufthansa. Or I might check Qantas for Emirates space. It’s clunky, but incredibly helpful.

4. Once you find the space, transfer and book quickly.
Award space moves fast. Once you find what you want, transfer your points and lock it in. Transfers are usually instant for partners like Air France, British Airways, or Virgin—but others like Singapore or ANA can take 24–72 hours. That can be risky.

Big Picture: Transferring points is a powerful tool—but it’s one-way. Check availability first, then move. It is one of the best ways to turn points into real travel.

Happy flying.

Remember, this life you are living has meaning. Thank you for reading. I am grateful you are here and would love to hear from you. If you'd like to write me a note, simply reply to this email. Otherwise I'll see you in the next one.

Be well today. -Tommy

P.S. If I can ever help you plan your next travel adventure (slash help make your points go farther), I’d be delighted. You can schedule time together here.