How to Combine Credit Card Points, Cashback, and Discounts for Bigger Savings
Smart travelers know that saving on trips isn’t just about scoring a deal at checkout—it’s about stacking multiple rewards and perks to reduce costs across the entire journey. By strategically combining credit card points, cashback rewards, and merchant discounts, you can save hundreds on flights, hotels, and more. Here’s how to maximize your savings with a layered approach.
Start with a Strong Travel Rewards Credit Card
Travel credit cards are the foundation of any effective savings strategy. Cards like the Capital One Venture or Amex Gold Card earn points on travel and dining, often with boosted rates for specific categories. These points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or transferred to airline partners for maximum value.
Use Cashback Apps When Making Purchases
Instead of booking directly every time, check whether your transaction qualifies for cashback through platforms like Fluz, Rakuten, or Ibotta. For example, you can buy a Hyatt gift card with cashback from Fluz and still earn credit card rewards on the purchase.
Stack Gift Card Discounts With Merchant Sales
Buying a discounted gift card and using it during a merchant’s own sale or promotion creates an instant double dip. You can get a discount on Marriott gift cards from Fluz and then book during a flash sale on the Marriott site. The same strategy works for rideshares, dining, or retail during your trip.
Transfer Credit Card Points to Travel Partners for Higher Value
Instead of using points through a credit card’s general travel portal, consider transferring them to airline or hotel loyalty programs. For instance, Chase Ultimate Rewards points often stretch further when transferred to United MileagePlus, Hyatt World of Hyatt, or British Airways Avios.
Use Points and Cashback Together for Mixed Payments
Some platforms allow you to use a mix of points and cash to cover partial costs. Whether it’s a flight booked with points and taxes paid with a cashback-enabled gift card, or a hotel covered half in points and half in card rewards, mixed payments make high-cost items more accessible.
Leverage Credit Card Portals and Offers
Many banks offer shopping portals or exclusive card-linked offers. Check your credit card’s portal (like Amex Offers, Chase Offers, or Citi Merchant Offers) for merchant discounts or bonus point promotions on travel partners.
Track Everything to Maximize Your Earnings
Use apps like AwardWallet or MaxRewards to monitor your credit card points, cashback balances, and rewards expirations. Staying organized ensures you use the right payment method at the right time to unlock the most value.
Combining points, cashback, and discounts isn’t just possible—it’s a proven strategy for cost-conscious travelers. With careful planning, the savings can start long before you pack your bags.
