During normal times, points transfer bonuses by Amex or any other issuer gain a lot of traction. However, we live in unusual times. Travel is nowhere close to normal and only a small minority is actively looking to book travel. Amex Membership Rewards points, along with Chase Ultimate Rewards points are two of my favorite transferable points currencies. Amex, in particular, has the edge over Chase when it comes to international airline partners. At the moment, Amex is running two lucrative points transfer bonuses with their Membership Rewards points. However, if you’re looking to travel any time soon then now is a good time to transfer time as these limited time bonuses end on October 31.
Amex Points Transfer Points Bonuses
Amex is currently running points transfer bonuses for Hilton and Marriott. These limited time offers expire on October 31, 2020.
Hilton Honors
The standard points transfer ratio for Hilton Honors is 1:2. With this bonus, you’ll get a ratio of 1:2.8. For example, if you transfer 1,000 Membership Rewards points, you’ll get 2,800 Hilton Honors points.
Marriott Bonvoy
The standard points transfer ratio for Marriott Bonvoy is 1:1. With this, bonus you’ll get a ratio of 1:1.4. For example, if you transfer 1,000 Membership Rewards points, you’ll get 1,400 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Crunching the Numbers
During normal times, many frequent travelers tend to jump on these limited time transfer bonuses. However, how lucrative are these bonuses during the current situation?
For example, let’s say you want to book a top tier Hilton hotel. One night will cost you at least 95,000 points for a standard room. With this bonus, you’ll need 39,000 Membership Rewards points instead of 48,000.
Similarly, let’s say you want to book a top tier Marriott hotel. One night will cost you at least 85,000 points for a standard room. With this bonus, you’ll need 61,000 Membership Rewards points instead of 85,000.
In short, the higher the category of the hotel, the more lucrative these transfer bonuses become for you.
Credit Card Bonuses
If you’re falling short on Marriott or Hilton points, another option is to sign up for co-branded credit cards from Marriott and Hilton. Currently, many of these cards are running limited time offers. Please note that Amex and Chase restrictions may apply to these credit cards.
| Card Name | Sign-up Bonus | Application Link |
| Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless | 30k points |
Apply Now |
| Chase Marriott Bonvoy Bold | 5 free nights (up to 50k points each) |
Apply Now |
| Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card | 125k points + Platinum Status for 2021 |
Apply Now |
| Amex Marriott Bonvoy Business Card | 100k points + $150 in credits |
Apply Now |
| Hilton Honors Business Card | 130k points |
Apply Now |
| Amex Hilton Honors Card | 95k points |
Apply Now |
| Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card | 140k points |
Apply Now |
| Hliton Honors American Express Aspire Card | 150k points + 1 free night |
Apply Now |
The Pundit’s Mantra
In most cases, I don’t recommend transferring points speculatively. However, if you do have a trip on the horizon, then it makes sense to use these Amex points transfer bonuses to your advantage.
In the past, I’ve used transfer bonuses to book some really cool trips. For example, I used a transfer bonus to British Airways in order to book a last minute trip to Colombia. However, given the current scenario, not many of us are planning such trips on the go.
Do you plan to make use of either of these points transfer bonuses before the end of the month? Tell us in the comments section.
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The Chase Sapphire Preferred is currently offering a limited time welcome bonus of 80,000 Ultimate Rewards points. You’ll earn a welcome bonus of 80,000 Ultimate Rewards points after you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months. You’ll also earn 2x points all on all travel and dining spend and 5 x on Lyft rides.
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Disclosure: The Points Pundit receives NO compensation from credit card affiliate partnerships. Support the blog by applying for a card through my personal referral links. This article is meant for information purposes only and doesn’t constitute personal finance, health or investment advice. Please consult a licensed professional for advice pertaining to your situation.
