How to Use American Express Points for Vacation

If you have a credit card through American Express, you will accumulate points whenever you make a purchase with your card. Over time, these points will add up and you have the option to turn them in for gift cards, traveler's checks, flights, hotels and vacation packages.

Instructions

1. Log in to your American Express account online. If you do not have online access to your account, go to AmericanExpress.com and register. The registration process is fairly simple. You will be asked to enter your American Express credit card number, your name, address and telephone number. Through your online account, you will be able to view your credit card statements, book travel accommodations and view how many points you have available.

2. Select the "Travel" tab in the American Express website's top menu bar. This will take you to American Express's travel agency. You will be able to search for flights, hotels and vacation packages. Select the vacation package or hotel option that suits your needs.

3. Select the "Check Out" option once you have made your travel selections. At this point you will be given the option to pay for the entire balance of your trip using your American Express card or "Pay with Points." Select the "Pay with Points" option. This will apply your available points to your trip balance. If you do not have enough points to pay for the entire trip, the balance will be noted on the website and charged to your credit card.

Tips & Warnings

• American Express points can only be used to pay for travel accommodations booked through the American Express travel site.

Resources

• American Express: Book Your Trip Using Points
• Amex: Register