The 20 Best Ways To Earn Lots of Avianca Lifemiles [2025]

Lifemiles is the name of the frequent flyer program offered by South American airline Avianca. Although it was known as a niche program in the past, it’s currently one of the most popular frequent flyer programs that savvy points travelers use.

Using Avianca Lifemiles is one of the best ways to redeem points and miles in the Star Alliance, and there are numerous quick and unique ways to earn Lifemiles. Here’s how to do it.

Sign Up for an Avianca Lifemiles Account

The Avianca Lifemiles program functions differently from other frequent flyer programs. For example, the United MileagePlus program is directly tied to United Airlines, which means you access both directly from United.com.

The same can’t be said for Avianca Lifemiles. You must visit the separate Lifemiles website to make award bookings and create a Lifemiles account.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make an Avianca Lifemiles account:

1. Visit the Lifemiles website.
2. Change your language by clicking the flag icon in the top right corner.
3. Click the button in the middle of the page labeled “Join for free.“
4. Follow all the prompts to create your Lifemiles account, then record your account number.

Your Lifemiles account will be crucial in earning Lifemiles, whether it’s from purchasing miles at one of their great sales, dining out, or booking hotel rooms.

Earn Avianca Lifemiles With Credit Cards

Using credit cards to earn Avianca Lifemiles is now easier than ever. In addition to Avianca’s own co-branded credit cards issued by Cardless, you can earn Lifemiles by transferring points from American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One Miles, and more.

There are tons of different options to earn Avianca Lifemiles, but the easiest way is through credit cards.

1. Avianca Lifemiles American Express Cards By Cardless (Best Option)

Avianca offers 2 credit cards to residents of the United States. These cards are issued by Cardless but operate on the American Express network and are accepted where American Express is accepted. The Avianca Lifemiles American Express^® Card and Avianca Lifemiles American Express^® Elite Card both offer a sizable welcome bonus, complimentary Avianca elite status, the ability to earn Lifemiles with everyday purchases, and perks that appeal to frequent Avianca flyers.

Avianca Lifemiles American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn more Avianca miles and receive complimentary elite status.

Avianca Lifemiles American Express^® Card

Earn more Avianca miles and receive complimentary elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days from account opening.

40,000 miles

Annual Fee

$99

Why We Like This Card

The Avianca Lifemiles card helps you earn more miles on your Avianca flights and provides complimentary Silver elite status each year.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles on Avianca purchases
• 2x miles on dining and groceries
• 1x miles on all other purchases

Cons

• Doesn’t earn transferable rewards
• Charges a $99 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 40,000 bonus miles upon spending $3,000 in the first 90 days
• Earn 2x miles on Avianca purchases
• Earn 2x miles at restaurants
• Earn 2x miles on groceries
• 1x miles on all other purchases
• Receive automatic Lifemiles Silver Elite status
• Prevent your miles from expiring
• No foreign transaction fees
• $99 annual fee

Financial Snapshot

• Foreign Transaction Fees: 

Avianca Lifemiles American Express^® Elite Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Avianca Lifemiles Elite card is a premium option for Avianca frequent flyers.

Avianca Lifemiles American Express^® Elite Card

The Avianca Lifemiles Elite card is a premium option for Avianca frequent flyers.

Welcome Offer

Earn up to 100,000 miles: 60,000 lifemiles after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days, plus an additional 40,000 lifemiles after spending a total of $25,000 in the first 365 days.

Up to 100,000 miles

Annual Fee

$249

Why We Like This Card

The Avianca Lifemiles Elite card is a premium offering for frequent Avianca flyers who want to earn more miles on every purchase and enjoy benefits like complimentary elite status.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x miles on Avianca Airlines or Lifemiles purchases
• 2x miles on dining and all other travel, like hotels, taxis, and other airlines
• 1x miles on all other purchases

Cons

• Charges a $249 annual fee
• Doesn’t earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 100,000 bonus miles: 60,000 lifemiles after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days, plus an additional 40,000 lifemiles after spending a total of $25,000 in the first 365 days.
• 3x miles on Avianca Airlines or Lifemiles purchases
• 2x miles on dining and all other travel, like hotels, taxis, and other airlines
• 1x miles on all other purchases
• Double your miles earnings up to 1,000 miles per month
• Miles do not expire as long as you use your card
• Complimentary Lifemiles+ membership, which includes:
  • Up to 6,000 miles annually
  • 10% back on Star Alliance flight redemptions
  • Up to 25% redemption discount on Avianca Airlines flights
  • Up to 40% more miles on Lifemiles hotels and Lifemiles cars
  • Up to 10% discount on Lifemiles cars
• Complimentary Lifemiles Silver status
• No foreign transaction fees
• Annual fee of $249

Financial Snapshot

• Foreign Transaction Fees: 

If you fly with Avianca regularly, consider one (or both!) of these credit cards.

Hot Tip:

The Avianca Lifemiles Elite card also offers a complimentary Lifemiles+ Lite membership (see below) and discounts on higher levels of membership, giving you another way to score tons of Lifemiles.

2. American Express Membership Rewards Cards

American Express Membership Rewards is an extremely competitive points currency to have in your arsenal.

It’s arguably one of the best flexible points currencies because of the frequent transfer bonuses and ease of earning points.

There are many Amex transfer partners, allowing you to use your points as you see fit. You can transfer at a 1:1 ratio from American Express to Lifemiles, and transfers occur almost instantly. Amex is also known for offering transfer bonuses to Lifemiles relatively frequently, so you may receive bonus points if you transfer at the right time.

The advantage of American Express is that it has many cards that earn American Express Membership Rewards points, which means you have tons of options to get extra points.

Recommended American Express Cards (Personal)

+ NEW BENEFITS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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

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.

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 Offer

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $8,000 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.

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

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

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.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

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

Cons

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

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $8,000 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.
• More Value! 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.
• More Value! $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.
• More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card^® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
• More Value! $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.
• New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card^® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card^®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
• More Value! $209 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card^®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card^® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
• Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts^® through American Express Travel^®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
• New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card^®.*Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
• $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card^®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
• Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
• $895 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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!

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.

American Express^® Gold Card

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 Offer

You 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.

As High As 100,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $2,200

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

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.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

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.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
• $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Business owner? Check out our article on the best Amex business cards that earn Membership Rewards.

3. Bilt Rewards Credit Card

The Bilt Rewards program is a 1:1 transfer partner of Avianca Lifemiles. If you pay rent, the Bilt Mastercard (closed to new applicants; rates & fees) can make sense since it’s the only credit card that earns rewards on rent payments (up to 100,000 points per calendar year), and offers points that transfer to Lifemiles. You must use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points.

4. Capital One Miles Credit Cards

Capital One Miles is a welcome addition to traditional giants such as American Express Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Capital One miles transfer almost instantly at a 1:1 ratio to Avianca Lifemiles.

Recommended Capital One Cards

LAST CHANCE

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

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

Apply Now(at Capital One's secure site)

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 Offer

Earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening - equal to $1,000 in travel.

100,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,800

Annual Fee

$395

APR

Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent (740-840)

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

• LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening - equal to $1,000 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 locations and 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: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Apply Now(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$95

APR

Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Limited elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Hot Tip: Check out some of the best ways to redeem Capital One miles, including many business and first class options.

5. Citi ThankYou Rewards Credit Cards

Transferring Citi ThankYou Rewards Points is one of the most effective ways to earn Avianca Lifemiles quickly.

You can transfer your Citi ThankYou Points at a 1:1 ratio for Citi’s premium cards and at a lower ratio for nonpremium cards. You can also often get transfer bonuses if you transfer during bonus periods.

Recommended Citi Cards

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com

60,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$960

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49% to 27.49% Variable

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card is a great all-around travel rewards card that allows you to earn big rewards on a variety of purchases like air travel, at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and more, along with flexible redemption options, all for a modest annual fee.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through CitiTravel.com
• 3x points on air travel, other hotel purchases, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and EV charging stations
• $100 annual hotel benefit

Cons

• $95 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
• Earn 10X points per $1 spent on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3X points per $1 on air travel and other hotel purchases, at restaurants, supermarkets, gas and EV charging stations.
• Earn 1X point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card.
• No foreign transaction fees on purchases.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% to 27.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Citi Strata Elite card is Citi's most premium card built for frequent travelers and foodies.

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card

The Citi Strata Elite card is Citi's most premium card built for frequent travelers and foodies.

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 bonus ThankYou Points after spending $6,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.

100,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,600

Annual Fee

$595

APR

20.49% to 28.49% Variable

Why We Like This Card

The Citi Strata Elite card is a great option for frequent travelers, foodies, and those who are fans of the Citi ThankYou Rewards ecosystem thanks to its combination of bonus categories, perks, and annual credits.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 12x points on hotels, rental cars, and attractions booked through Citi Travel
• 6x points on airfare through Citi Travel
• 6x points on dining on Citi Nights (Friday and Saturday nights from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.) and 3x points on dining at all other times

Cons

• $595 annual fee
• Boosted dining rewards are limited to 2 nights per week

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 100,000 bonus ThankYou Points after spending $6,000 within the first 3 months of account opening
• 12x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on cititravel.com
• 6x points on air travel booked on cititravel.com
• 6x points at restaurants, including restaurant delivery services, every Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. ET, and 3x points any other time
• 1.5x points on all other purchases
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
• Up to $300 annual hotel benefit
• Up to $200 annual Splurge credit
• Up to $200 annual Blacklane credit
• 4 American Airlines Admirals Club passes every calendar year
• Transfer Citi ThankYou Points to partners like American Airlines
• Complimentary Priority Pass membership
• No foreign transaction fees

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49% to 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

6. Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

Marriott Bonvoy offers the most flexible rewards currency available. With over 40 Marriott Bonvoy transfer partners, you have a lot of ways to use your points. Avianca Lifemiles is no exception.

However, there are many better and more effective ways than Avianca to use your Marriott Bonvoy points, which is why this isn’t at the top of our list. Marriott Bonvoy points can be transferred to Lifemiles in approximately 1 business day at a 3:1 ratio. You also get a 5,000-mile bonus if you transfer 60,000 points, meaning 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points can turn into 25,000 Avianca Lifemiles.

You can earn Marriott Bonvoy points from cards offered by both Chase and American Express:

Recommended Marriott Bonvoy Cards

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn 3 Free Nights (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening with your Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card. Certain hotels have resort fees.

Earn 3 Free Night Awards

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,050

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
• Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
• Automatic Silver Elite Status

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after qualifying purchases.
• Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases annually on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
• Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
• 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
• Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Card.
• Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

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

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

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.

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

85,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $595

Annual Fee

$250

APR

19.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
• 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®.
• Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
• Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• Marriott Bonvoy^® 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®.
• Earn up to 18.5X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 25% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Gold Elite status.
• With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy^® Gold Elite Status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy^® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit.
• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at a participating hotel. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year, receive 15 Elite Night Credits towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy^® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Booking the trip is easy. Avoiding delays is next to impossible. If a round-trip is paid for entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason delays your trip more than 12 hours, Trip Delay Insurance can help reimburse certain additional expenses purchased on the same Eligible Card, up to $300 per trip, maximum 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• Plan It^® is a payment option that lets you split up large purchases into monthly installments with a fixed fee. A fixed monthly fee is shown upfront so you'll know exactly how much you’ll pay. Plus, you'll still earn rewards for the purchases you plan the way you usually do.
• $250 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

7. Wells Fargo Rewards

Avianca Lifemiles is a 1:1 transfer partner of Wells Fargo Rewards, so you can earn valuable rewards with cards like the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card and Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A powerful point earning card with access to transfer partners.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

A powerful point earning card with access to transfer partners.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

60,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49%, 25.49%, or 28.49% Variable APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey^SM Card is an excellent option for those looking for a great all-around travel rewards card that offers bonus categories on hotels, airfare, travel, and dining, giving you the opportunity to earn points on these purchases quickly.

Plus the card offers flexible redemption options including access to transfer partners, an annual statement credit with airfare purchase, and no foreign transaction fees.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn 5x points on hotels
• Earn 4x points on airfare
• Earn 3x points on other travel and restaurants; 1x on other purchases

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• List of transfer partners is smaller than competing programs

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Select “Learn More” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 Annual Fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature^® Concierge.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49%, 25.49%, or 28.49% Variable APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Wells Fargo Autograph Card offers great 3x bonus points and cell phone protection with no annual fee.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Card offers great 3x bonus points and cell phone protection with no annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

20,000 points

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases, 18.49%, 24.49% or 28.49% variable APR thereafter

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is an excellent no annual fee card that offers 3x points on 6 different bonus categories. Choose from multiple options when you’re ready to redeem your rewards, and take advantage of great perks including cell phone protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, and no foreign transaction fees.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points per $1 spent on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans
• 1x points per $1 spent on other purchases
• No annual fee

Cons

• Points are worth a fixed 1 cent per point, so it isn’t possible to get outsized value

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Select “Learn More” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 18.49%, 24.49% or 28.49% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature^® Concierge.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases, 18.49%, 24.49% or 28.49% variable APR thereafter
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

8. Refer a Friend for Bonus Miles

With the Amex refer-a-friend program, you’re able to refer your friend to virtually any card in the American Express portfolio.

Lastly, Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit cards also offer referral bonuses, whether they’re from Amex or Chase.

Earn Miles Through Travel

You can also earn a significant number of Lifemiles for paid flights, hotel stays, and other activities.

9. Airfare and Airline Purchases

Unsurprisingly, you can earn a lot of Avianca Lifemiles by flying on Avianca flights.

Mileage earning is dependent on the price you paid for your ticket, the fare class of your ticket, and your elite status level. Here are the base Lifemiles earnings rates for each type of fare:

Additionally, elite members receive a bonus to the miles they earn, which varies with the level of status:

• Red Plus: 10% additional bonus
• Silver: 20% additional bonus
• Gold: 60% additional bonus
• Diamond: 80% additional bonus

For example, if an Avianca Gold member flies from Los Angeles (LAX) to Bogotá (BOG), Colombia, on a Flex ticket costing $1,180 (with $45 in taxes and fees), their ticket earns 6 miles per $1 on a base fare of $1,135, with a 60% bonus. That means this member accumulates 10,896 Lifemiles for this flight.

10. Crediting Partner Airlines to Lifemiles

You can earn Lifemiles from various airline partners, but each partner has its own specific accrual rates. While most of Avianca’s partners come from its membership in the Star Alliance, Avianca also has nonalliance partners such as Iberia (a Oneworld airline) and GOL.

The amount of Lifemiles that you earn on partner flights varies with each partner, so make sure to check out Avianca’s complete list of partner airlines and Lifemiles accrual rates.

Hot Tip: For more information, check out our in-depth guide on where to credit your airline miles.

11. Car Rentals and Other Ground Transportation

You can also earn Lifemiles through car rental partners.

Here’s a list of car rental partners:

Avis has the best deal on earning Lifemiles, so we suggest booking with Avis when possible.

12. Lifemiles Hotel Partners

Lifemiles partners with a lot of different hotel brands, so there are many opportunities to top off your Lifemiles by booking hotels.

You can find all the hotel partners on the Lifemiles website, but check out our consolidated list below:

Regional Hotel Chains

13. Convert Points From Hotel Partners

While we don’t recommend transferring points from a hotel program to Lifemiles, the option is available if you need to top off your balance for an award.

14. Lifemiles Hotel Booking Portals

If none of the hotel chains above are a good fit for you, there are quite a few booking portals that you can also utilize to earn Lifemiles.

Lifemiles currently partners with these booking portals:

One of the biggest hidden perks of using booking portals is that Lifemiles periodically offers huge bonuses on hotel bookings, but sometimes for only a single day. These bonuses can earn you miles that are more valuable than the booking.

15. Lifemiles Experiences

Lifemiles also offers experiences, which usually earn around 2 to 3 Lifemiles per $1 spent on Lifemiles Experiences.

Earn Miles Through Shopping and Dining

Earning Lifemiles doesn’t have to involve credit card applications and spending. Although cards are the best feasible way to earn a gigantic chunk of Lifemiles in a short period of time, you can still do great by earning Lifemiles via shopping and dining.

16. Lifemiles Shopping Partners

Lifemiles has numerous shopping partners. Although most of the partners are South American, there are quite a few familiar brands on the list, such as Adidas, Aerie, Calvin Klein, Sony, Steve Madden, and Tumi.

To start earning Lifemiles with shopping partners, follow these instructions:

1. Visit the Lifemiles shopping portal.
2. Click Find commercial partners.
3. Change the filter at the top left from Colombia to all countries.
4. Select the partner where you want to shop.

Keep in mind that you can only earn Lifemiles at specific locations in Latin America, such as shops in Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Guatemala, since Lifemiles primarily services customers in Latin America.

You can earn up to 5 Lifemiles per $1 spent with these partners, so it’s a great way to earn miles.

Once you’ve selected your shopping partner, the following page will provide you with directions on how to earn bonus Lifemiles, which can vary from company to company.

17. Lifemiles Restaurant Partners

Avianca Lifemiles has restaurant partners in addition to its shopping partners. You only earn Lifemiles when dining at specific restaurants in Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Guatemala.

You can earn up to 6 Lifemiles per $1 spent at restaurant partners. Some examples of restaurant partners are P.F. Chang’s, American Cheesecake, and El Rancherito.

Remember that earning Lifemiles with partners is subject to specific terms and conditions, which can vary from partner to partner.

Specialty Earnings for Avianca Lifemiles

One of the most effective ways to get tons of Lifemiles is by taking advantage of deals that are exclusive to Avianca Lifemiles, which is extremely easy. The main thing to watch out for is timing.

18. Buy Avianca Lifemiles During Huge Sales

Avianca typically sells Lifemiles at a prohibitively high price of 3.3 cents per mile. We do not recommend purchasing Lifemiles at this price unless you’re in an emergency and need the miles as soon as possible.

Avianca frequently offers gigantic bonuses on purchased miles. And by gigantic, we mean gigantic.

It’s not unusual to see bonuses of 125% to 200% on purchased miles. In other words, if you buy 1,000 miles during these sales, you get an extra 1,250 to 2,000 miles, bringing your total up to 2,250 to 3,000 miles.

The maximum number of Lifemiles you can purchase per year is currently 200,000 (before bonuses).

19. Subscribe to Lifemiles+

Lifemiles+ is a subscription service from Avianca Lifemiles that offers travel benefits, the ability to earn double miles on Lifemiles credit card purchases, and monthly bonus miles in exchange for a monthly premium. There are 4 subscription levels:

All levels of Lifemiles+ members get benefits including discounts on Avianca flights, a 10% discount on Star Alliance flights booked through Avianca, 24-month miles expiration, and no change or cancellation fees.

If you’re an Avianca Lifemiles Elite cardholder on the Max plan, you get 120,000 bonus miles annually for $2,160, meaning you are buying these miles at 1.8 cents per mile. One way to use these miles would be flying on Lufthansa first class one-way between the U.S. and Europe (87,000 Lifemiles) for $1,566.00 using this subscription.

Considering that Lufthansa first class often retails for $10,000 or more, you can get tons of value this way.

Hot Tip: Lifemiles processes all purchases with Avianca, so you can earn 5x points with an Amex Platinum card (up to $500,000 per year).

20. Multiply Your Miles

With Multiply Your Miles, you can double and even triple your miles. This is done in 3 different ways:

• Flying
• Lifemiles credit or debit cards
• Lifemiles partner spending

For example, if you earn 2,000 miles from flying and 1,000 miles from Lifemiles partner spending, you’re eligible to earn up to 9,000 miles total. Basically, you can buy up to 3x the miles for a discounted rate.

Essentially, you can buy Lifemiles at a much cheaper price than usual. The catch is it has to be from Avianca-related spending, whether it’s on travel or with their partners. You’re only able to buy a relatively small amount compared to the normal miles sales, but you get the miles at a larger discount.

Final Thoughts

There are a lot of unique ways to earn Avianca Lifemiles. Avianca Lifemiles is an extremely versatile frequent flyer program. It never passes along any fuel surcharges, it’s got tons of ways to get lots of points, and there are many great ways to redeem Lifemiles for maximum value.