Best (and Worst) AmEx Transfer Partners
Rewards points are a crucial consideration for many cardholders when choosing the right American Express (AmEx) credit card. By selecting the best AmEx transfer partners, you can maximize your points’ value, while avoiding those that may not offer the best returns. In this article, we’ll focus on the top AmEx transfer partners and those you might want to stay away from.
Best AmEx Transfer Partners
1. British Airways Executive Club (Avios)
One of the most popular AmEx transfer partners, British Airways offers a 1:1 transfer rate with frequent transfer bonuses. You can use these Avios points for flights with Oneworld alliance members, such as American Airlines and Cathay Pacific, giving you ample opportunities for travel.
2. Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
With a 1:1 transfer ratio and access to the prestigious Star Alliance network (including airlines like United and Lufthansa), Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer program provides great value for AmEx cardholders. The program’s excellent stopover and open-jaw policies further enhance its benefits.
3. Air France/KLM Flying Blue
Another 1:1 transfer partner, Flying Blue offers excellent flexibility with bookings on SkyTeam alliance members like Delta. Their Promo Reward deals allow you to score discounted flights regularly, further maximizing your points’ value.
4. Emirates Skywards
Emirates Skywards is known for its luxurious cabin products and impressive inflight experience. A 1:1 AmEx transfer partner, Skywards allows you to redeem your points for premium seats with ease, ensuring a memorable air journey.
Worst AmEx Transfer Partners
1. Hilton Honors
Though Hilton Honors has several fine hotels in its portfolio, at a conversion rate of 1:2, it may not be the best use of your hard-earned AmEx points. Your points’ value is likely to be higher if redeemed for air travel instead.
2. JetBlue TrueBlue
While JetBlue is a beloved domestic airline, its AmEx transfer rate of 1:0.8 is rather disappointing. As it only flies within the US, Central America, and the Caribbean, this low transfer rate makes it less attractive compared to other travel partners.
3. Coins.ph
Offering conversion to cryptocurrency may seem like an excellent alternative option at first glance. However, with the frequent fluctuations in cryptocurrency value and a 1:0.75 transfer ratio, AmEx holders will likely find better uses for their points elsewhere.
In conclusion, understanding the best and worst AmEx transfer partners will help you make informed decisions when redeeming your Membership Rewards points. Airlines like British Airways Avios, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, and Air France/KLM Flying Blue provide valuable options for travelers, while partners like Hilton Honors and JetBlue TrueBlue may not offer the most cost.