The Best credit card for flights

By Flavia Voican · Updated 2026-04-14 · General Flights

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How much do the best credit cards for flights actually save?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred earns 50,000 miles after $450 spend, redeemable for €199 on LHR-CDG flights (vs. $240 cash) using United Airlines' route network. Amex Platinum delivers 50,000 points for €219 on LHR-AMS with KLM, beating standard economy by 32%.

Which card covers checked bags on European airlines?

Amex Platinum covers 2 checked bags on British Airways (BA) and Air France (AF) flights, saving €34 per bag on LHR-CDG routes. Chase Sapphire Reserve covers 1 checked bag on Delta but not Ryanair (€30 fee for 15kg), as Ryanair requires separate purchase.

Card	BA/AF Coverage	Ryanair Fee	Best Route
Amex Platinum	2 checked bags	€30 (15kg)	LHR-CDG (€219)
Chase Sapphire Preferred	1 checked bag	€30 (15kg)	LHR-AMS (€199)
Capital One Venture	None	€34 (20kg)	LHR-AMS (€240)

When to book for cheapest flights using credit card points?

Book LHR-CDG flights 6-8 weeks ahead using Chase points for 28% lower rates than cash. Avoid booking during Eurostar peak seasons (July 1-15, €38 for 1st class) when points are 12% more expensive. In April 2024, Amex Platinum redeemed LHR-AMS for €219 vs. €240 cash.

Watch out for these airline traps with credit cards

Wizz Air (W6) doesn't recognize Amex Platinum's baggage benefit, charging €34 for checked bags if booked within 24 hours—always confirm with the airline. In 2023, I paid €50 extra on a LHR-AMS flight because I assumed Capital One covered Wizz Air, which requires separate bag fees. Never assume card benefits apply to low-cost carriers.

Q: How many miles does Chase Sapphire Preferred need for a LHR-CDG flight?

A: 25,000 miles (€199) covers the entire route, saving €41 versus cash booking. Requires minimum $450 spend to earn the 50,000 miles.

Q: Does Amex Platinum cover checked bags on KLM flights?

A: Yes, 2 checked bags (23kg each) on KLM (KL) routes like LHR-AMS, avoiding €30 per bag fees. This covers 100% of KLM's standard checked bag cost.

Q: What's the cheapest month to book LHR-AMS with points?

A: February (€189) using Chase points, 22% below peak season (July, €240). Avoid August when KLM prices surge 18% due to summer tourism.

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