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If you’re stuck with rewards in a loyalty program you rarely use, you might be wondering if you can transfer them elsewhere. This usually isn’t possible between frequent-flyer programs, and it can be a poor choice for hotel rewards. But you can get excellent value when transferring rewards from credit cards.
You typically can’t transfer miles between frequent-flyer programs — even if the airlines are in the same alliance or are partners. But there are exceptions. For example, you can transfer Avios between your British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus accounts, as these airlines are owned by the same company.
There are third-party sites that facilitate mile transfers. Generally avoid them, however, as they typically offer dismal transfer ratios. Only consider using them in special circumstances, such as if you need just a few more miles to book an award flight.
You can use your airline miles to book flights on other airlines, as long as the carriers are within the same alliance. The largest alliances are SkyTeam, Oneworld and Star Alliance.
Even if two airlines aren’t in the same alliance, you can use your miles to book flights on either one if the carriers are partners.
Yes — most of the largest hotel chains allow point transfers to frequent-flyer programs. That said, consider avoiding this because it usually comes with a poor transfer ratio. You’ll likely get more value by redeeming your points for hotel stays.
A few major credit card rewards programs allow transfers to hotel and frequent-flyer programs. This is one of the best strategies to use, as you’ll often enjoy strong transfer ratios and a wide selection of airlines.
Here are the top credit card rewards programs that allow reward transfers to frequent-flyer programs. Click on the program names to learn more about transfers.
| Reward program | Typical transfer ratio | Transfers to |
|---|---|---|
| CIBC Aventura | 1 to 1 in 10,000 point increments | Aeroplan |
| Amex Membership Rewards | 1 to 1 in 10,000 point increments | Aeroplan, British Airways |
| RBC Rewards (Avion) | Typically 1 to 1 but varies | WestJet Dollars, British Airways, American Airlines AAdvantage Miles, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles |
You usually can’t transfer miles between airlines, and hotel transfers can bring weak transfer ratios. However, transferring rewards from certain travel credit cards to hotel and frequent-flyer programs can be an excellent idea.
If you don’t yet have a travel credit card, consider comparing your travel credit card options to find one that suits your needs.
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