Using Credit Card Travel Rewards During the Holidays  

Make holiday travel easier by turning everyday spending into travel rewards.

The holidays should be filled with joy—not stress over mounting expenses. Between buying the perfect gifts, hosting celebrations, and booking travel during peak season, costs can add up quickly. While planning ahead is always smart, one of the best ways to save on holiday travel is by making the most of a travel rewards credit card.

Earn While You Spend

With a travel credit card, your everyday holiday spending—on groceries, gifts, decorations, and more—can earn you valuable points or miles. Those rewards can be redeemed for: 

  • Flights
  • Hotel stays
  • Car rentals
  • Cruises
  • Experiences and excursions

Because airfare is often one of the biggest holiday travel expenses, being able to use points for flights can save you hundreds. Many travel cards also include valuable perks like:

  • Airport lounge access
  • Priority boarding
  • Free checked bags
  • Travel insurance protections

Which Travel Card is Best for You?

Choosing the right travel rewards credit card depends on your travel habits and financial goals. Before applying, consider:

  • Annual Fees: Some cards offer big perks but come with high fees–make sure the value outweighs the cost.
  • Intro Bonus Offers: Many cards offer points after meeting a minimum expenditure.
  • Travel Rewards and Perks: Look for cards that align with your travel style, airline loyalty, hotel stays, or flexible points.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: If you’re traveling internationally, avoid cards that charge extra for foreign purchases.
  • Regular APR: If you carry a balance, a lower interest rate may be more important than rewards.

Tip: Credit cards are a great way to earn year-round, but always use them responsibly. Overspending for the sake of rewards can lead to debt–and that’s never worth the stress. 

How to Use Credit Card Travel Points

Wondering how to use credit card travel points effectively? Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Log Into Your Card’s Rewards Portal
    • This is where you will redeem credit card points for travel options like flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. 
  2. Compare Redemption Values
    • Transfer points to travel partners for potentially higher value.
    • Book directly through the portal for convenience, though point value may be lower.
  3. Time Your Bookings Wisely
    • Book early to secure better availability and lower point costs.
  4. Watch for Promotions
    • Look out for limited-time deals or discounted award redemptions.

The holidays should be a time of celebration–not financial anxiety. By planning ahead and using your travel rewards credit card strategically, you can use points for flights and other travel expenses to ease the burden.

Start now, earn throughout the year, and let your points take you where you want to go.   

The information provided in these articles is intended for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as the opinion of Central Bancompany, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and does not imply endorsement or support of any of the mentioned information, products, services, or providers. All information presented is without any representation, guaranty, or warranty regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.