In the world of travel and credit card rewards, one key concept can unlock incredible value from your points and miles: transfer partners. This strategy can turn a simple credit card purchase into a luxurious hotel stay, first-class flight, or an unforgettable experience. But what exactly are transfer partners, and how can you use them to maximize your rewards? Let’s explore.

What Are Rewards Transfer Partners?

Transfer partners fall into two main categories: airline and hotel partners. These programs allow you to convert points or miles earned from one program (usually a credit card’s rewards program) into another. For example, if you have a Chase Ultimate Rewards card, you can transfer your points to a variety of airline and hotel loyalty programs, such as United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or Marriott Bonvoy.

Why Use Transfer Partners?

1. Better Redemption Value: Transfer partners often offer better value than redeeming points directly through your credit card’s portal. Instead of using points for a statement credit or gift card, transferring them to an airline’s frequent flyer program might get you a first-class ticket worth much more.

   Additionally, by booking directly through an airline or hotel’s loyalty program, you can earn points or night credits, unlike when booking through the credit card’s rewards portal. For example, if you have Hilton Diamond status, transferring Amex points to Hilton and booking directly will allow you to enjoy your Diamond benefits.

2. Travel Flexibility: Transfer partners give you access to a broad network of airlines and hotels, offering flexibility in your travel plans. Whether you’re booking a quick domestic flight or indulging in a luxury stay at a five-star hotel, transfer partners give you more options.

3. Exclusive Awards: Some programs offer award flights or hotel stays exclusively available through their loyalty systems. By transferring your points, you may gain access to these exclusive awards, which wouldn’t be available through direct redemption.

Here’s an overview of popular credit card rewards programs and their notable transfer partners:

1. Chase Ultimate Rewards Transfer Partners

Airline Transfer Partners:

• Aer Lingus – Aer Club

• Air Canada – Aeroplan

• Air France/KLM – Flying Blue

• British Airways – Executive Club

• Emirates – Skywards

• Iberia – Iberia Plus

• JetBlue – TrueBlue

• Singapore Airlines – KrisFlyer

• Virgin Atlantic – Flying Club

Hotel Transfer Partners:

• Hyatt – World of Hyatt

• Marriott – Marriott Bonvoy

• IHG Hotels – IHG One Rewards

2. Amex Membership Rewards Transfer Partners

Airline Transfer Partners:

• Aer Lingus – Aer Club

• AeroMexico – AeroMexico Rewards

• Air Canada – Aeroplan

• Air France/KLM – Flying Blue

• ANA – Mileage Club

• Avianca – LifeMiles

• British Airways – Executive Club

• Cathay Pacific – Asia Miles

• Delta Airlines – SkyMiles

• Emirates – Skywards

• Etihad Airways – Etihad Guest

• Hawaiian Airlines – HawaiianMiles

• Iberia – Iberia Plus

• JetBlue – TrueBlue

• Qantas Airlines

• Qatar Airways – Privilege Club

• Singapore Airlines – KrisFlyer

• Virgin Atlantic – Flying Club

Hotel Transfer Partners:

• Hilton – Hilton Honors

• Marriott – Marriott Bonvoy

• Choice Hotels – Choice Privileges

3. Citi ThankYou Points Transfer Partners

Airline Transfer Partners:

• Air France/KLM – Flying Blue

• AeroMexico – AeroMexico Rewards

• Avianca – LifeMiles

• Cathay Pacific – Asia Miles

• Emirates – Skywards

• Etihad Airways – Etihad Guest

• EVA Air

• JetBlue – TrueBlue

• Qantas Airlines

• Qatar Airways – Privilege Club

• Singapore Airlines – KrisFlyer

• Thai Airways – Royal Orchid Plus

• Turkish Airlines – Miles&Smiles

• Virgin Atlantic – Flying Club

Hotel Transfer Partners:

• Choice Hotels – Choice Privileges

• Wyndham Hotels – Wyndham Rewards

4. Capital One Miles Transfer Partners

Airline Transfer Partners:

• Air France/KLM – Flying Blue

• TAP Air Portugal – Miles&Go

• AeroMexico – AeroMexico Rewards

• Air Canada – Aeroplan

• Avianca – LifeMiles

• British Airways – Executive Club

• Cathay Pacific – Asia Miles

• Emirates – Skywards

• Etihad Airways – Etihad Guest

• Finnair – Finnair Plus

• Qantas Airlines

• Singapore Airlines – KrisFlyer

• Turkish Airlines – Miles&Smiles

• Virgin Atlantic – Flying Club

Hotel Transfer Partners:

• Wyndham Hotels – Wyndham Rewards

• Choice Hotels – Choice Privileges