Credit card rewards programs offer valuable flexibility, but transfer bonuses can amplify that value significantly. These limited-time promotions allow you to convert points and miles to airline or hotel partners at a higher rate, unlocking better award redemptions. Acting fast is crucial, as these offers expire. Here’s a breakdown of the latest bonuses and how to leverage them effectively.
Current Transfer Bonuses: Key Programs
Several major rewards programs are currently offering transfer bonuses. Here’s a program-by-program overview:
American Express Membership Rewards: Through December 31st, Amex points transfer to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club with a 40% bonus. This means 1,000 Amex points become 1,400 Flying Club points. This is an excellent opportunity to book premium cabin awards, though Flying Club charges additional fees on redemptions.
To earn more Amex points: The American Express® Gold Card and American Express Platinum Card® currently offer welcome bonuses up to 100,000 and 175,000 points, respectively, after meeting spending requirements.
Chase Ultimate Rewards: Chase is offering two bonuses:
– Air Canada Aeroplan (until Jan 5, 2026): A 25% bonus on transfers.
– IHG One Rewards (until Jan 15, 2026): A 70% bonus, though valuation may not maximize point value (Chase points are worth more than IHG points based on current valuations).
To earn more Chase points: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer up to 75,000 and 125,000 bonus points after meeting spending requirements. The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card can earn up to 90,000 points.
Capital One: No current transfer bonuses. However, Capital One miles offer instant transfers and are valued at 1.85 cents each, making them valuable even without bonuses.
To earn more Capital One miles: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offer substantial welcome bonuses after meeting spending thresholds.
Citi ThankYou Rewards: No current transfer bonuses, but the Citi Strata Elite℠ Card unlocks the full value of transfers to partners.
To earn more Citi points: The Citi Strata Elite Card offers 100,000 bonus points after meeting spending requirements.
Marriott Bonvoy: No current transfer bonuses to airline partners.
To earn more Marriott Bonvoy points: The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card offers a free night award after meeting spending requirements.
Rove Miles: This new program offers a 20% bonus to Finnair Plus until December 31st. Rove Miles also allows easy transfers between Avios programs (British Airways, Qatar Airways), essentially making it a 1:1 transfer partner with bonus potential.
Strategic Transfers: Is It Worth It?
The decision to transfer points should be made carefully. Transfers are irreversible, so only proceed if you have a clear redemption in mind.
- Flexibility vs. Bonus: While bonuses can increase value, the true strength of transferable points lies in their adaptability. If you don’t have immediate plans, holding onto points may be wiser.
- Valuation Matters: Always compare the value of the bonus against the overall redemption cost. A 70% bonus doesn’t always mean the best deal if the partner program has low redemption rates.
- Award Availability: Before transferring, confirm award availability to avoid being stuck with points you can’t use.
Conclusion
Transfer bonuses are a powerful tool for maximizing rewards, but they require careful planning. By understanding current offers and aligning them with your travel goals, you can unlock significant value from your credit card points and miles. Always prioritize flexibility and ensure you have a clear redemption strategy before committing to a transfer.
