6 Ways I’ve Booked Round-Trip Flights to Asia for Under 60,000 Miles

Updated: March 9, 2026, 8:30am CDT

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Table of Contents

1. ANA Mileage Club
2. Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards
3. Air France-KLM Flying Blue
4. Delta SkyMiles
5. United MileagePlus
6. Qatar Airways Privilege Club
Advanced Tips for Booking Award Flights to Asia
Final Thoughts

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Over the past decade, I have flown from the U.S. to Asia more than 20 times. Nearly every single one of these trips has been booked thanks to careful use of points and miles.

While flying to Asia can be extremely expensive, my experiences show that it doesn’t have to be that way. The first step, though, is earning the right kind of currency. Your best bet is to focus on transferable credit card points and miles, which give you access to multiple airline loyalty programs rather than locking you into just one.

Here are my favorite popular airline loyalty programs that have allowed me to book round-trip economy flights between the U.S. and Asia for a bargain.

1. ANA Mileage Club

ANA Mileage Club, the loyalty program of Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways (ANA), offers some of the cheapest award flights between the U.S. and Asia. The program has several different award charts, including one for ANA domestic awards, another for ANA international awards, and a third for Star Alliance partner awards.

If you want to fly on ANA, you should take a closer look at ANA’s International award chart, where award pricing is based on seasonality. During low season dates, one-way awards between North America and Japan can be booked for as few as 20,000 miles, plus taxes and fees. During the regular season, this is priced slightly higher at 25,000 miles one-way.

For example, here is a one-way flight in March between Chicago (ORD) and Tokyo (NRT) for 25,000 miles and about $175 in taxes and fees.

ANA Mileage Club ORD NRT 25k miles one way economy — ANA’s award chart offers some incredible rates. Image Credit: ANA

Alternatively, you can also fly on Star Alliance partner airlines, including United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and EVA Air, among many others. For those redemptions, you would look at ANA’s Star Alliance partner award chart.

Unlike with ANA-operated flights, partner redemption award rates aren’t subject to seasonal pricing. This can work in your favor when flying on dates that would put you in high season pricing. For example, you can book a one-way EVA Air flight between Los Angeles (LAX) and Taipei (TPE) for just 30,000 miles and $127 in taxes and fees.

ANA Mileage Club Star Alliance partner LAX TPE on EVA Air — You can also fly numerous Star Alliance partner airlines to Asia. Image Credit: ANA

The easiest way to earn ANA Mileage Club miles is with a card that earns American Express Membership Rewards points — the only currency that transfers to ANA at a 1:1 rate.

BEST LOUNGE CARD

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Platinum Card^® from American Express

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Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Welcome OfferYou may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted. 
As High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to $3,850

Annual Fee

$895

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than the Platinum Card^® from American Express.

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Pros & Cons

Pros

The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,550 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment (airline credit, Uber Cash and Uber One, Resy, Saks Fifth Avenue credit, lululemon credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR+ credit, and Equinox credit)
TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
Access to American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts and Amex International Airline Program
Access to Amex transfer partners
No foreign transaction fees (rates and fees)

Cons

$895 annual fee (rates and fees)
Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

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Card Highlights

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards^® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel^®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts^® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel^® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection^®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club^® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges.* As of 07/2025.
$200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card^® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card^® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
$300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Experience the latest shows, news and recipes. Get up to $25 in statement credits each month when you use your Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases on Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN streaming services, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium, and YouTube TV when you purchase directly from one or more of the providers. Enrollment required.
$600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel^® using the Platinum Card^®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
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$209 CLEAR+ Credit: CLEAR+ helps get you to your gate faster by using your face to verify you are you at 55+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR+ Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR+ with your Platinum Card^®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
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$895 annual fee.
Terms Apply.

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Hot Tip: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of as high as 175,000 points with the Amex Platinum. Welcome offers may vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

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This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Welcome OfferYou may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
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UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $2,200

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

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Pros & Cons

Pros

4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com

Cons

$325 annual fee (rates and fees)
No lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
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Annual Fee is $325.
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2. Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards

Although Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards has undergone significant changes over the years, it still offers some tremendous value — especially for flights between the U.S. and Asia.

Award prices vary by partner, but generally speaking, the best award pricing can be found on flights departing the West Coast. For example, here is a one-way award between Seattle (SEA) and Seoul (ICN) on Hawaiian Airlines for 30,000 Atmos Rewards points and $6 in taxes and fees.

Alaska Atmos SEA ICN 30k — You can now fly between Seattle and Seoul on Hawaiian Airlines. Image Credit: Alaska Airlines

Alaska Atmos Rewards also offers Global Getaways promotions, offering discounted award flights to select international destinations each quarter. For example, here is a one-way economy award on Starlux Airlines between San Francisco (SFO) and Hokkaido (CTS) for just 20,000 points and $34 in taxes and fees.

Alaska Atmos 20k one way economy SFO CTS — Taking advantage of promotions is an excellent way to save some points. Image Credit: Alaska Airlines

Bilt Rewards is the only program that transfers to Atmos Rewards at a 1:1 ratio. It offers several rewards cards, including the Bilt Blue Card (rates & fees), Bilt Obsidian Card (rates & fees), and Bilt Palladium Card (rates & fees). Alternatively, Atmos Rewards offers its own consumer and business credit cards that let you earn Atmos Rewards points directly.

3. Air France-KLM Flying Blue

Flying Blue, the loyalty program of Air France-KLM, is another excellent option — though you won’t be flying on either Air France or KLM. Since Air France-KLM is part of the SkyTeam alliance, you can use Flying Blue miles to book Delta-operated flights — for much less than what Delta charges in SkyMiles.

For Flying Blue redemptions, the best award rates will be from Hawaii. For example, here is a one-way award on Delta between Honolulu (HNL) and Tokyo (HND) for just 24,500 miles one-way.

Flying Blue HNL HND for 24.5k one way in economy on Delta — You can fly from Hawaii to Japan for just 24,500 miles one-way. Image Credit: Flying Blue

Rates from certain West Coast destinations are slightly higher for roughly 30,000 miles one-way. For example, a one-way award between Seattle and Taipei on China Airlines can be booked for 31,000 miles — slightly higher than 60,000 miles round-trip, but still a tremendous deal.

Flying Blue SEA TPE 30k — You can use Flying Blue on several partner airlines including China Airlines. Image Credit: Flying Blue

It is also incredibly easy to earn Flying Blue miles, as the program is a transfer partner of nearly every major transferable rewards program, including Amex Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One Miles, and Citi ThankYou Rewards.

NEW OFFER

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Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

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A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

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Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome OfferEarn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
125,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$2,500

Annual Fee

$795

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like worldwide airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus, it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to cover you at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the more than $2,000 in annual credits, which can offset the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
5x points on Lyft rides
4x points on flights and hotels booked directly

Cons

$795 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
$300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge^® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^® every 4 years
Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Chase Ultimate Rewards

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Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

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A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome OfferEarn 60,000 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.24% - 27.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons

Pros

5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
2x points on all other travel worldwide

Cons

$95 annual fee
No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

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Card Highlights

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Enjoy beneﬁts such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.24% - 27.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Chase Ultimate Rewards

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome OfferEarn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

$395 annual fee
Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass lounges, after enrollment
Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

APR: Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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4. Delta SkyMiles

Although Delta SkyMiles doesn’t get as much praise as others on this list, it still offers value on economy flights to Asia.

Unfortunately, Delta employs dynamic pricing, making it impossible to determine the exact number of SkyMiles required for a redemption. Worst of all, award rates can vary significantly, with some rates being astronomically high: think hundreds of thousands of miles for a single business class ticket.

However, with a little bit of award searches and luck, you can book some inexpensive awards, including to Asia. For example, you can book a one-way award between San Francisco and Saigon (SGN) on Vietnam Airlines for 30,000 miles and $6 in taxes and fees.

Delta SkyMiles SFO SGN for 30k Delta miles — San Francisco to Saigon for just 30,000 Delta SkyMiles. Image Credit: Delta

Delta also offers Delta SkyMiles Deals, which are limited-time promotional sales that offer significant discounts on award redemptions — even on flights to Asia. Earning Delta SkyMiles is easiest with its cobranded cards, or by transferring Amex points at a 1:1 ratio.

LIMITED TIME OFFER

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Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

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Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

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Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

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Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Welcome OfferEarn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 or more in purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership and an additional 25,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $3,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months, starting from the date that your account is opened. Offer Ends 04/01/2026.
Up to 125,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $1,500

Annual Fee

$650

APR

19.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases.
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases.
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.

Cons

$650 annual fee (rates & fees)
No bonus categories other than Delta purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 or more in purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership and an additional 25,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $3,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months, starting from the date that your account is opened. Offer Ends 04/01/2026.
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members receive 15 Visits per Medallion^® Year to the Delta Sky Club^® when flying Delta and can unlock an unlimited number of Visits after spending $75,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Plus, you’ll receive four One-Time Guest Passes each Medallion Year so you can share the experience with family and friends when traveling Delta together.
Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge in the U.S. and select international locations (as set forth on the Centurion Lounge Website), Sidecar by The Centurion^® Lounge in the U.S. (see the Centurion Lounge Website for more information on Sidecar by The Centurion^® Lounge availability), and Escape Lounges when flying on a Delta flight booked with the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card. § To access Sidecar by The Centurion^® Lounge, Card Members must arrive within 90 minutes of their departing flight (including layovers). To access The Centurion^® Lounge, Card Members must arrive within 3 hours of their departing flight. Effective July 8, 2026, during a layover, Card Members must arrive within 5 hours of the connecting flight.
Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars with MQD Headstart each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 in purchases on your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card with MQD Boost to get closer to Status next Medallion Year.
Enjoy a Companion Certificate on a Delta First, Delta Comfort, or Delta Main round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit.
$240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
$120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
With your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, receive upgrade priority over others with the same Medallion tier, product and fare experience purchased, and Million Miler milestone when you fly with Delta.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
$650 Annual Fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.49%-28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

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Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

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Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

Welcome OfferEarn 80,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 or more in purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership and an additional 20,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months, starting from the date that your account is opened. Offer Ends 04/01/2026.
Up to 100,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $1,200

Annual Fee

$350

APR

19.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card can be a great option for those seeking additional ways to obtain a higher level of status — or to maintain their current status — with the airline.

A key feature of this card is the ability to earn bonus Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning a handful of valuable benefits with the airline.

Pros & Cons

Pros

3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta purchases
3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases made directly with hotels
2x SkyMiles per $1 spent at restaurants (including takeout and delivery) and U.S. supermarkets

Cons

$350 annual fee (rates & fees)
Does not earn transferable rewards

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Card Highlights

Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 or more in purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership and an additional 20,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months, starting from the date that your account is opened. Offer Ends 04/01/2026.
Receive a Companion Certificate on a Delta Main round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit.
Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars with MQD Headstart each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $20 in purchases on your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card with MQD Boost to get closer to Status next Medallion Year.
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
$120 Resy Credit: Get up to $10 in statement credits each month after you pay with your enrolled Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases.
$120 Rideshare Credit: earn up to $10 in statement credits each month after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights and save up to $70 per person on a round-trip Delta flight.
Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck^® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
$350 Annual Fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.49%-28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card

U.P. Rating

This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free checked bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card

This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free checked bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.

Welcome OfferEarn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 or more in purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership and an additional 20,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months, starting from the date that your account is opened. Offer Ends 04/01/2026.
Up to 90,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $1,080

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.

APR

19.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Frequent Delta flyers will love the Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card. The card offers great benefits that will help save you money, effectively mimics low-level elite status with Delta SkyMiles, and helps you earn miles even faster, all for a low annual fee. Let’s dive into the benefits to see if the Delta Gold card is a good fit for your needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

$100 Delta Stays Credit: You can earn up to $100 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
Receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel after you spend $10,000 in purchases in a year.
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.

Cons

Moderate annual fee
Earn rate for Delta flights is relatively low compared to other travel cards

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Card Highlights

Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 or more in purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership and an additional 20,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months, starting from the date that your account is opened. Offer Ends 04/01/2026.
Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $150.
Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
$200 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel.
When you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card, you can earn: 2X miles on Delta Purchases, 2X miles at restaurants, 2X miles at U.S. supermarkets, 1X miles on all other eligible purchases. Every mile you earn brings you closer to the places you want to go. Turn them into your next trip, use them for seat upgrades, and more.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights and save up to $70 per person on a round-trip Delta flight.
Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
$100 Delta Stays Credit: Get up to $100 back per year as a statement credit after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
Want even more flexibility? Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
With Send & Split^®, you can send money and split your Card purchases with any other Venmo or PayPal user, directly from the Amex App. Enroll today.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.49%-28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

5. United MileagePlus

The United Airlines MileagePlus program also offers solid award rates to Asia. Although the program has eliminated its award chart, there can be fantastic deals.

United allows mixing partners and cabins, which opens up plenty of options given the number of partners it offers. For example, you can book a one-way redemption between Seattle and Singapore (SIN) for just 30,000 miles, plus $5.60 in taxes and fees.

United MileagePlus SEA SIN for 30k United — Seattle to Singapore for 30,000 United MileagePlus miles. Image Credit: United

United co-branded cardholders have access to greater Saver award availability, so adding a card to your wallet may be a smart move to earn more United miles. Bilt Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards points also transfer to United at a 1:1 ratio.

LIMITED-TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

United Quest℠ Card

U.P. Rating

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

United Quest℠ Card

The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.

Welcome OfferEarn 80,000 bonus miles and 3,000 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
80,000 miles + 3,000 PQP

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$960

Annual Fee

$350

APR

19.74% - 28.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Enter: the United Quest℠ Card. With it, you can bolster your United MileagePlus miles, thanks to the bonus categories, while enjoying the card’s many perks designed to help save you money on each United flight.

With an annual fee that falls between the United℠ Explorer Card and the United Club℠ Card, the United Quest card makes for a fantastic card option for United frequent flyers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

5x miles on stays through Renowned Hotels and Resorts
3x miles per $1 on United purchases
2x miles per $1 spent on travel, dining, and select streaming services

Cons

Does not earn transferable rewards
Does not offer airport lounge access

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Card Highlights

Earn 80,000 bonus miles and 3,000 PQP
3x miles on United^® purchases
2x miles on dining, select streaming services, and all other travel
1x mile on all other purchases
Get a jump start on earning Premier status with 1,000 Card Bonus PQP each year, awarded within 8 weeks of February 1, starting in the calendar year following your account open date.
Free first and second checked bags--a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply)
Receive a $200 United^® travel credit and 10,000-mile award flight discount on each account anniversary
Earn a 10,000-mile eligible award flight discount after spending $20,000 each calendar year
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

LIMITED-TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

United℠ Explorer Card

U.P. Rating

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

United℠ Explorer Card

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

Welcome OfferEarn 70,000 United MileagePlus® bonus miles after spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases in the first three months of opening an account, plus $0 annual fee for the first year.
50,000 70,000 bonus miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$840

Annual Fee

$150

APR

19.74% - 28.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.

You should consider the United℠ Explorer Card, because this card does all that and more!

Pros & Cons

Pros

5x total miles per $1 on hotel stays through United Hotels
2x miles per $1 on United purchases, dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays
1x mile per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $150
Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 70,000 bonus miles
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
2x miles on United^® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel
Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
Priority boarding on United^® flights
2 United Club one-time passes per year - over a $100 value
Over $500 in partner credits each year
Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck^® or NEXUS fee credit
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.74% - 28.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

United MileagePlus Frequent Flyer Program

6. Qatar Airways Privilege Club

Lastly, we have Qatar Airways Privilege Club, the loyalty program of Doha-based Qatar Airways. The program is an Oneworld member, allowing members to redeem flights on Qatar Airways and partner airlines, including Japan Airlines and Cathay Pacific.

The program utilizes the popular Avios currency, which is shared by other loyalty programs, including British Airways Club, Club Iberia Plus, Aer Lingus AerClub, and Finnair Plus. Avios can be transferred between these programs at a 1:1 ratio, which is essential since each program has its own redemption rates.

It also utilizes a distance-based award chart for all Privilege Club partner airline award redemptions. The total Avios required to redeem for a partner award ticket will depend on the total distance (miles) flown.

This creates significant potential, particularly from the West Coast to certain destinations in Asia. For example, you can book a one-way award between Los Angeles and Tokyo for 25,750 Avios one-way.

Qatar Privilege Club LAX HND — Los Angeles to Tokyo for 25,750 Avios. Image Credit: Qatar Airways

You could fly between Seattle and Seoul for the same 25,750 Avios one-way. In fact, this is lower than what Alaska charges for the same flight.

Qatar Privilege Club SEA ICN for 25k Avios — You can book Seattle to Seoul for less than what Alaska charges. Image Credit: Qatar Airways

Programs like Amex Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One Miles, and Citi ThankYou Rewards all transfer to Qatar Airways Avios at a 1:1 ratio.

Advanced Tips for Booking Award Flights to Asia

With many popular destinations (most notably Japan), finding award availability and booking award tickets has become more complex. Here are some important things to keep in mind.

1. Start the Planning Process Early

Planning ahead is essential when preparing for a trip, especially when it comes to using points and miles. The earlier you begin looking for award space, the better the odds are of finding availability.

This is especially important for the most popular destinations like Japan and when you require more than one award seat.

2. Positioning Flights Are Valuable

Sometimes the best award deals — especially for long-haul flights — don’t start from your home airport.

A positioning flight from another airport with more award space allows you to take advantage of those deals. This is particularly true for smaller airports.

3. Different Loyalty Programs May Offer Lower Rates

When booking award flights, it’s important to compare multiple airline loyalty programs, since the exact same flight can require vastly different amounts of points or miles depending on which program you redeem through.

Understanding airline partnerships — and knowing which transferable rewards currencies work with each program — can make the process much simpler and more rewarding.

Final Thoughts

Asia is an incredibly popular travel destination, and for good reason. The continent has so much to offer everyone, which makes its appeal even greater. Unfortunately, this tends to make cash prices high.

Fortunately, numerous incredible sweet spots across various airline frequent flyer programs offer fantastic value for travel between the U.S. and Asia. Best of all, you can fly round-trip for around 60,000 miles — or potentially even fewer — through many of these programs.