How to Book Award Flights: Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Know What You Have

Before booking, check your points balances across all programs. Use Mink Points to see all your transfer options in one view.

Step 2: Search for Availability

Award seats are limited. Search early (330 days out for most airlines) or late (2-4 weeks out for last-minute releases). The best tools:

• Google Flights — find which dates/routes have the cheapest cash fares (these often correlate with award availability)
• Airline websites — search directly on United, Aeroplan, or the partner airline
• ExpertFlyer — advanced tool for checking award space across airlines

Step 3: Transfer Points

Only transfer after you've confirmed award availability. Most transfers from Chase and Amex are instant. Capital One takes 1-2 days.

Step 4: Book

Call or book online through the loyalty program. Pay the miles + taxes/fees. Business class taxes to Europe are typically $50-200.

Pro Tips

• Be flexible with dates — even 1 day can change availability
• Check alliance partners — can't find United award space? Try booking through Aeroplan for the same United flight
• Watch for transfer bonuses — an extra 20-30% can unlock redemptions you couldn't reach before