Booking an Award Flight Step by Step

Booking a flight with miles can be confusing. Here is a simple process to follow.

Step by step

1. Know your balance

Log in to your airline or alliance account and check how many miles you have.

2. Search award availability

Use the airline's own site, which shows award seats. Alliance partners often share seats, so also search partner airlines.

3. Be flexible

Check nearby dates and alternative airports. Midweek flights often have more availability.

4. Compare the cost

Look at the miles price and the taxes. Compare with the cash fare to see if it is good value.

5. Check the rules

Understand change and cancellation fees, whether miles are refunded and what happens if the schedule changes.

6. Book and confirm

Some award tickets must be booked by phone. Save your confirmation and check that names match your passport.

Tips

• Book early for popular routes, since award seats are limited.
• Look for sweet spots, such as short flights with low mileage rates.
• Keep some cash for taxes and fees.

Award rules differ for each airline, so check the specific terms.