Many travelers miss out on huge value because they overlook one simple concept.

Transfer partners.

They can look confusing at first, yet this single strategy can double or even triple the value of the points you already earn.

Here is how powerful it can be.

A traveler named Lisa had 100,000 Chase points and wanted to fly to Japan.

Option 1. Booking through the Chase travel portal

Points valued at about 1.5 cents each

Total value: 1,500 dollars

Option 2. Using a transfer partner

Transferred the same points to Virgin Atlantic

Booked ANA first class

Retail value of the flight: 4,500 dollars

Same points. Triple the value.

Transfer partners are the real engine behind outsized redemptions. These are some of the standouts.

American Express® Partners

• ANA for business class to Japan at about 85,000 miles round trip

• Virgin Atlantic for favorable Upper Class awards

• Air France for last minute business class opportunities

• Singapore Airlines for access to premium cabins including Suites

Chase Partners

• United for its Excursionist Perk on multi city trips

• Hyatt for some of the strongest hotel transfer value

• British Airways for short haul deals

• Virgin Atlantic for Delta award sweet spots

Capital One Partners

• Turkish Airlines for excellent business class pricing

• Air France and KLM for rotating Promo Rewards

• Emirates for premium cabin opportunities

• Avianca for Star Alliance partner awards

Key Transfer Rules

• Transfers generally move in one direction

• Many transfers process instantly, though it is important to check each program

• Transfer bonuses appear frequently and can boost value

• Comparing multiple partners before transferring avoids missed opportunities

Advanced Ways to Maximize Value

• Explore creative routes that reduce mileage requirements

• Combine transfer bonuses with low award pricing

• Use several programs together for complex itineraries

• Build round the world trips by stitching partners strategically

A Strong Starting Card for Transferable Points

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a frequent recommendation for travelers learning the value of transfer partners. It earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which can be transferred to major airlines and hotels including United, Southwest, and Hyatt.

Cardholders earn 5X points on travel booked through Chase, 3X points on dining and online groceries, and 2X points on other travel purchases. An annual 10 percent points bonus adds even more value.

The 95 dollar annual fee is easy to justify when factoring in earning potential and the flexibility of Ultimate Rewards points. For many travelers, the card pays for itself quickly.

Talk soon,

Your Maestro Concierge

Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are only the author’s and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity.