Travel Blog

Can you use your points or flyer miles when working with a travel advisor?

Written by New Dawn Vacations | Mar 4, 2025 6:00:00 PM

If you're someone who’s racked up a stash of credit card points or frequent flyer miles, you might be wondering:

"Can I still use my points or miles if I book through a travel advisor?"

The short answer is — yes, but with a few important details to know.

How Credit Card Points and Miles Typically Work

Credit card rewards and frequent flyer miles are usually managed directly through your credit card company or airline’s loyalty program. They often allow you to:

  • Redeem points for flights, hotel stays, or upgrades
  • Transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs
  • Book travel through the credit card’s travel portal

The key is that these redemptions typically happen within the loyalty program's platform — not through third-party systems.

How Travel Advisors Fit In

So, how does this work when you book with a travel advisor like me? Let’s break it down:

✈️ Using Frequent Flyer Miles

If you want to book flights using your airline miles:

  • You’ll need to book directly through the airline’s loyalty portal or by calling the airline.
  • I can advise you on the best routes, airlines, and ways to maximize your miles — helping you find the most strategic use of your points.
  • Once you’ve secured the flights, I can integrate those details into your overall travel itinerary, ensuring seamless transfers, hotel bookings, and excursions.

🏨 Using Credit Card Points for Hotels and Packages

If you want to use points to book hotels or vacation packages:

  • Many credit card portals (like Amex Travel, Chase Ultimate Rewards, etc.) require you to book directly through their system.
  • However, I can help you identify which hotels or experiences are point-eligible and guide you on how to make the most of your redemptions.

Solution: Sometimes, it's smarter to let me book certain elements — especially when added amenities or VIP treatment are involved — while you use points strategically for flights or upgrades.

Maximizing Your Points and Advisor Expertise

Here’s how we can work together:

  1. Points Strategy Session: Let’s review your rewards balances and loyalty programs to create a smart plan for using your points and miles.
  2. Hybrid Booking Approach: You might use points for flights, while I book luxury hotels or curated experiences to get you the best perks.
  3. Seamless Itinerary Planning: I’ll combine your rewards bookings with other trip elements — transfers, tours, and dinners — so everything flows perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Working with a travel advisor doesn’t mean giving up control of your points or miles — it means maximizing their value while ensuring your entire trip is seamless and stress-free.

At New Dawn Vacations, I specialize in blending luxury travel experiences with smart travel strategies. Whether you're dreaming of a five-star honeymoon, a destination wedding, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, we’ll create a trip that uses every resource — points, perks, and personalized planning — to its fullest.

Got a stash of points or miles you're ready to use? Let’s chat about how we can turn them into your next unforgettable vacation!