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15 Best Ways To Redeem Alaska Mileage Plan Miles for Max Value

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Spencer Howard

Spencer Howard

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Always a fan of flying, Spencer wanted to find ways to upgrade his travel experience. Over the years, Spencer has been a guest speaker on multiple YouTube shows as well as podcasts on maximizing point...
Edited by: Keri Stooksbury

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Alaska Airlines offers excellent service and a strong link between North America and the Pacific Northwest, which of course includes Alaska.

It has also increased the value of its award redemption options by offering an extra stopover on its flights, as well as through partnerships with select airlines.

Read on to learn more about how to use your Alaska Airlines frequent flyer program miles for great award travel!

Redeeming Alaska Airlines Miles Using Mileage Plan

Alaska Airlines is now a part of an airline alliance: Oneworld. Furthermore, it has a respectable list of non-alliance airlines it partners with. That means you can use your Alaska miles in many great ways!

List of Alaska Airlines Partners

You can use your Alaska Mileage Plan miles to book with all of the following:

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Oneworld Partners
Alaska AirlinesMalaysia Airlines
American Airlines
Oman Air (joining in 2024)
British AirwaysQantas
Cathay PacificQatar Airways
Fiji Airways (Oneworld Connect Partner)Royal Air Maroc
FinnairRoyal Jordanian
IberiaS7 Airlines (temporarily suspended)
Japan AirlinesSriLankan Airlines

In addition, Alaska Airlines partners with these airlines on an individual basis. Some partners are earn

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Alaska Partners via Non-Alliance Partnerships
Aer LingusKenmore Air (earn only)
Air Tahiti NuiKorean Air
Bahamasair (earn only)Mokulele Airlines (earn only)
Cape Air (earn only)LATAM*
CondorRavn Alaska
EL ALSingapore Airlines
Hainan AirlinesSouthern Airways Express (earn only)
IcelandairSTARLUX Airlines

*Note that you will need to call Alaska Airlines at 800-252-7522 to book award flights on a few of the above partners. For instance, you’ll need to call to book on Cathay Pacific and LATAM.

As you can tell, Alaska Airlines has a slew of aspirational airlines, including Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, and Qantas. To make things better, these award prices are some of the best in the business, which is why Alaska Airlines miles is the currency of choice for so many travelers.

The rest of the partner airlines can typically be booked on alaskaair.com. You’ll have the chance to redeem Mileage Plan miles by selecting Use miles when searching for availability.

Note: Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan intra-Asia awards on Cathay Pacific, Hainan Airlines, and Japan Airlines must be booked at least 72 hours in advance. Other routing is not affected and can still be booked last minute.

How To Boost Your Alaska Miles

Alaska Mileage Plan miles can be earned by applying for its co-branded credit cards offered by Bank of America, like the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Provides the potential to earn plenty of miles to fly with Alaska Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23)!

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

Provides the potential to earn plenty of miles to fly with Alaska Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23)!
Get a $100 statement credit, 50,000 Bonus Miles and Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening.
$100 statement credit + 50,000 bonus miles + Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™
$1,000
$95
18.24% - 26.24% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

With the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card in your wallet, you could get great perks and earn miles at the same time. This is a win-win if Alaska is the airline you prefer to fly with! Plus, its annual companion fare is a great benefit for traveling couples.

Pros

  • 3x miles per $1 spent on Alaska purchases
  • 2x miles per $1 spent on eligible gas, local transit (including rideshare), cable, and select streaming services
  • 1x mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Annual companion fare
  • Free checked bag for you and up to 6 traveling companions
  • 20% back on Alaska inflight purchase

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • LIMITED TIME ONLINE OFFER — $100 statement credit, 50,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™!
  • Get a $100 statement credit, 50,000 Bonus Miles and Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening.
  • Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™. Every year on your credit card account anniversary you’ll receive a companion fare which allows you to book a companion flight from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23). Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
  • Free checked bag for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation – that’s a savings of $60 per person roundtrip!
  • Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, local transit (including rideshare), cable, and select streaming services, and unlimited 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
  • 10% reward bonus on all miles earned on card with an eligible Bank of America checking, savings, or investment account.
  • Priority boarding on Alaska Airlines when tickets are purchased with card.
  • With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
  • Flexibility with no blackout dates on Alaska Airlines flights when booking with miles or a companion fare.
  • Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
  • This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 18.24% - 26.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Frequent Flyer Program

Another way to earn Alaska miles is through transfers from Marriott Bonvoy.

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

You can earn Marriott Bonvoy points and transfer those to Alaska Airlines at a transfer rate of 3:1. Plus, for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points that you transfer, you’ll receive an extra 5,000 Mileage Plan miles.

Recommended Marriott Bonvoy Cards

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.
Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.
30,000 points
$210
$0
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

Casual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card.

The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Pros

  • Up to 14x points per $1 on Marriott purchases
  • 2x points per $1 on travel purchases
  • 15 Elite Night Credits each year (automatically gives you Silver Elite status)
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • No annual fee

Cons

  • Lower point earn rate than other Marriott Bonvoy cards
  • Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is the lowest status tier
  • Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card from Chase®!
  • Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Card.
  • 2X points for every $1 spent on other travel purchases (from airfare to taxis and trains).
  • 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, qualifying you for Silver Elite Status. Restrictions apply.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Earn 3 Free Nights after you spend $3,000 on eligible purchases (each night valued up to 50,000 points) within the first 3 months from account opening.
Up to 3 Free Nights
$1,050
$95
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

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

  • Earn big when you use your card at over 7,000 participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • New benefit to earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
  • Automatic Silver Elite Status
  • 1 Free Night Award each cardmember anniversary (up to 35,000 points)
  • DoorDash DashPass subscription
  • No foreign transaction fees

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • Marriott Silver status is the lowest status tier
  • 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 each year 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.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® CardTerms 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 in's and out's 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.

Learn More(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.
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
$595
$250
20.99%-29.99% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

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

  • 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
  • Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
  • 15 Elite Night Credits per year
  • 1,000 bonus points per paid stay
  • 1 Free Night Award (up to 50,000 points) when you spend $15,000 on the card in a year
  • No foreign transaction fees (rates and fees)

Cons

  • $250 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • With complimentary Gold Elites 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™ Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express Card® you can receive 15 Elite Night Credits toward 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. Terms apply.
  • Plan It® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
  • $250 Annual Fee.
  • Terms apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Learn More(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 Brilliant® American Express® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.
Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
95,000 bonus points
$665
$650
20.99%-29.99% Variable
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 cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros

  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
  • 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
  • 25 Elite Night Credits each year
  • Priority Pass Select membership upon enrollment
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
  • Annual Free Night Award after card renewal
  • Complimentary Platinum Elite status

Cons

  • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
  • With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
  • $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward 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. Terms apply.
  • Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited access to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
  • With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • $650 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Alaska Airlines Award Prices

Alaska Airlines implements a different award chart for each carrier. For brevity, we will touch on the award cost under each redemption only. The award charts for Alaska Airlines-operated flights are as follows:

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Within Contiguous U.S. and AlaskaMiles Required
Trips less than 700 miles
Main Cabin5,000 to 30,000
First Class15,000 to 40,000
Trips between 701 to 1,400 miles
Main Cabin7,500 to 30,000
First Class25,000 to 50,000
Trips between 1,401 to 2,100 miles
Main Cabin10,000 to 40,000
First Class25,000 to 60,000
Trips longer than 2,101 miles
Main Cabin12,500 to 50,000
First Class30,000 to 70,000

*Price ranges are all for one-way flights. The highest price in each range is a fully refundable award.

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Contiguous U.S./Alaska to MexicoMiles Required
Trips between 701 to 1,400 miles
Main Cabin10,000 to 35,000
First Class30,000 to 50,000
Trips between 1,401 to 2,100 miles
Main Cabin15,000 to 40,000
First Class30,000 to 60,000
Trips longer than 2,101 miles
Main Cabin17,500 to 50,000
First Class30,000 to 70,000

*Price ranges are all for one-way flights. The highest price in each range is a fully refundable award.

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Contiguous U.S./Alaska to HawaiiMiles Required
Main Cabin15,000 to 50,000
First Class40,000 to 80,000

*Price ranges are all for one-way flights. The highest price in each range is a fully refundable award.

The 15 Best Ways To Use Your Alaska Mileage Plan Miles

Alaska’s Mileage Plan loyalty program offers excellent deals on one-way tickets that can be used strategically for booking flights to 2 destinations with the same amount of miles it would take to get to 1.

When searching for reward availability on partner flights, simply search your dates with the Use miles option checked. After you click to search, you may filter the results by airline using the sidebar that appears to the left of the search display.

Here are 15 suggestions that will maximize the value of your Mileage Plan miles on both Alaska Airline flights and partner flights, especially for those of you who fly in business or first class.

1. Fly Cathay Pacific First Class to Asia

Cathay Pacific 777 first class offers the widest seats, an astonishing 36 inches! Image Credit: Stephen Au

One of the most exciting and best uses of Alaska bonus miles is to fly first class on Cathay Pacific to Asia. For only 70,000 miles, you can experience this amazing first class product and its stellar inflight service.

If you are connecting in Cathay Pacific’s hub, Hong Kong, you will have the chance to visit 2 first class lounges: The Pier, First and The Wing, First. The Pier just might be one of the nicest airport lounges in the world, but both are spectacular. Check them out if you have enough time!

Is business class more your style? You can use just 50,000 Alaska miles to visit Asia on Cathay Pacific. Business class passengers can also visit one of several Cathay Pacific lounges during a layover, including The Bridge, which is an exceptional way to relax before or between flights.

To get the most out of your Cathay Pacific experience, remember to utilize Alaska’s stopover policy. Stop in Hong Kong on your way to your final destination and enjoy 2 cities during your trip to Asia. Besides, this means you’ll probably get to visit Cathay Pacific’s lounges!

Need help booking? See our step-by-step guide for booking Cathay Pacific first class.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Boston (BOS) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Tokyo (HND) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class for 70,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$30 in taxes and fees
  • New York (JFK) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Beijing (PEK) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class for 70,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$30 in taxes and fees

Hot Tip: You can also fly Cathay Pacific by transferring Amex points to Cathay’s own Asia Miles via American Express Membership Rewards. We recommend the American Express® Gold Card that earns you 3x points for flights booked directly with airlines (terms apply).

2. Fly Cathay Pacific First Class to South Africa

Cathay Pacific’s first class is gigantic. It can fit 2 comfortably! Image Credit: Stephen Au

What if we told you that flying first class on Cathay Pacific to South Africa is the same as flying to Asia? Well, you’re in luck! For only 70,000 Alaska miles you can get all the way to Johannesburg. If you prefer, you can do this trip in business class for just 62,500 miles.

Now, we’ll be honest with you: the Hong Kong to Johannesburg flight doesn’t have a first class, so you will only be able to fly in business.

Still, you can basically use this as a bonus flight! Rather than only visiting Asia, you can stopover in Hong Kong to explore and follow that up with some fun in South Africa.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Chicago (ORD) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Johannesburg (JNB) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class and then Cathay Pacific business class for 70,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$76 in taxes and fees
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Cape Town (CPT) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class and then Cathay Pacific business class for 70,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$76 in taxes and fees

3. Fly Cathay Pacific First Class to Australia or New Zealand

Cathay Pacific 777 first class is phenomenal. Image Credit: Stephen Au

Cathay Pacific might not be the first airline that comes to mind when visiting Australia or New Zealand, but maybe it should be!

For 80,000 Alaska miles, you can fly first class from the U.S. Not only is this a great deal, but it’s on one of the top airlines in the world. You can also take this trip in business class for 60,000 miles.

As with the options above, you will have the opportunity to utilize a stopover in Hong Kong on your way.

Unfortunately, Cathay Pacific doesn’t operate a first class product to Oceania, so it’ll be a mixed cabin award with the first leg in first class and the Oceania leg in business class.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • New York (JFK) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Auckland (AKL) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class and then Cathay Pacific business class for 80,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$98 in taxes and fees
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Melbourne (MEL) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class and then Cathay Pacific business class for 80,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$98 in taxes and fees

4. Fly Qantas Business or First Class to Australia and New Zealand

Qantas Boeing 747 business class seat. Image Credit: Greg Stone

If you’re visiting either Australia or New Zealand, you might as well see the other country while you’re there, too! Using Alaska miles to fly Qantas will allow you to do just that.

You can stopover in Sydney on your way to Auckland, and a business class flight will only cost 55,000 Alaska miles. Not a bad deal for a typically expensive destination.

If you can book 331 days out, you might (we’ll emphasize might) get lucky and find first class space. A first class flight on Qantas will cost only 70,000 Alaska miles, but it is extremely rare to find the necessary award space, especially for 2 people.

Be sure to check out our definitive guide to Qantas’ direct U.S. routes, which includes the best planes and seats to fly on! Here are some tickets to consider booking:

  • Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Sydney (SYD) one-way in Qantas business class for 55,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$71 in taxes and fees
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Melbourne (MEL) one-way in Qantas first class for 70,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$71 in taxes and fees

Need help booking? See our step-by-step guide for booking Qantas first class.

Hot Tip: You can also use Amex Membership Rewards, Brex Rewards Capital One Miles, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy to fly Qantas by transferring your points directly to Qantas Frequent Flyer.

5. Fly Qatar Airways Qsuites to the Middle East and Africa

Qatar Airways QSuites. Image Credit: Alex Miller

If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy a set of double beds on a flight, look no further than the Qatar Airways Qsuite. Not only can you experience a comfortable flight to the Middle East or Africa starting at 85,000 Alaska miles, but you experience one of the absolute best business class products in the world. Flights to the Middle East start at 85,000 miles, while flights to Africa start at 120,000 miles.

Keep in mind that award prices aren’t set at a fixed price; instead, they occupy a range — the cheapest tickets are harder to find, while the most expensive tickets are easier to find but cost more miles.

An award flight booked with Alaska miles wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t include a stopover, so take some time to explore Doha before continuing to your final destination in Africa or the Middle East. Here are some flights you can consider booking:

  • Houston (IAH) – Doha (DOH) – Seychelles (SEZ) one-way in Qatar Airways Qsuite and Qatar Airways business class from 85,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$113 in taxes and fees
  • Miami (MIA) – Doha (DOH) – Nairobi (NBO) one-way in Qatar Airways Qsuite and Qatar Airways business class from 85,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$35 in taxes and fees

Need help booking? See our step-by-step guide to booking Qatar Airways Qsuites.

6. Fly Japan Airlines First Class to Asia

The Japan Airlines first class seats feature an amazing 33 inches in width! Image Credit: Stephen Au

Known for having a great first class product and amazing inflight service, you won’t want to miss the experience on Japan Airlines first class.

For 70,000 Alaska miles, you can enjoy Japan Airlines’ luxury first class on your way to Asia. Wherever your destination, don’t forget to include a stopover in Tokyo along the way!

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Chicago (ORD) – Tokyo (NRT) – Seoul (ICN) one-way in Japan Airlines first class and business class for 70,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$62 in taxes and fees
  • New York (JFK) – Tokyo (HND) – Delhi (DEL) one-way in Japan Airlines first class and business class for 70,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$62 in taxes and fees

The countries included in the Asia region are Japan, South Korea, and India. If you want to travel to any other country within Asia, you’ll pay the price for Southeast Asia, which is 75,000 miles each way.

7. Fly Korean Air Business Class to Asia

With direct aisle access and a lie-flat bed, you can rest peacefully when flying business class on Korean Air. Image Credit: Korean Air

Unlike most of Alaska’s partners, booking a one-way ticket on Korean Air costs the same amount of miles as a round-trip ticket. So if you’re considering an award flight on Korean Air, make sure you book a round-trip award!

You can fly to Asia in business class for 125,000 Alaska miles round-trip. Not a bad way to journey across the world! While you’re at it, you might as well enjoy a stopover in Seoul on your way. Here are some great example routes to look at:

  • Seattle (SEA) – Seoul (ICN) round-trip in Korean Air business class for 125,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$92 in taxes and fees
  • Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Seoul (ICN) round-trip in Korean Air business class for 125,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$92 in taxes and fees

Hot Tip: Be sure to choose the best seats on Korean Air, which we outline in our definitive guide to Korean Air’s direct U.S. routes.

8. Fly Hainan Airlines Business Class to China and Beyond

Hainan Airlines A350 business class. Image Credit: Cherag Dubash

If you’re looking for a solid business class option to China, look no further than Hainan Airlines, the largest privately-owned airline in China.

A one-way award flight on Hainan in business class will cost 55,000 Alaska miles. Hainan also has many routes to Southeast Asia, so you can easily build a fun trip that includes China and a second country thanks to Alaska’s stopover rules.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Chicago (ORD) – Beijing (PEK) – Bangkok (BKK) one-way in Hainan Airlines business class for 55,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$205 in taxes and fees
  • New York (JFK) – Chengdu (CTU) – Urumqi (URC) one-way in Hainan Airlines business class for 55,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$205 in taxes and fees

9. Fly Fiji Airways Business Class to Oceania

Fiji Airways Airbus A350 business class. Image Credit: Greg Stone

If you’re going to travel across the world, you may as well do it in style and see as much as you can. Using 55,000 Alaska loyalty program miles to fly business class on Fiji Airways allows you to do just that.

Sure, you could just visit Fiji, but why limit yourself? Make Fiji a stopover on your way to Australia or New Zealand to get the most out of your miles.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Nadi (NAN) – Auckland (AKL) one-way in Fiji Airways business class for 55,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$79 in taxes and fees
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Nadi (NAN) – Sydney (SYD) one-way in Fiji Airways business class for 55,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$79 in taxes and fees

10. Fly American Airlines Business Class to Southern South America

Fly American Airlines’ 787-9 business class on your way to South America. Image Credit: Stephen Au

If you’re looking for an adventure to a place like Buenos Aires, Argentina or Santiago, Chile, you can use 50,000 Alaska miles to fly business class on American Airlines.

As a region, South America doesn’t have exciting airline products like the Middle East or Asia, but on American Airlines you can get a nice lie-flat seat.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Buenos Aires (EZE) one-way in American Airlines Flagship Business class for 50,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$19 in taxes and fees
  • Miami (MIA) – Santiago (SCL) one-way in American Airlines Flagship Business class for 50,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$19 in taxes and fees

11. Fly American Airlines Business Class to Northern South America

American Airlines 777 Flagship Business. Image Credit: Chris Hassan

American Airlines also provides a great way to fly to Lima, Peru. If you’ve ever wanted to visit Machu Picchu, you’ll be going through Lima, so take note!

For only 30,000 Alaska miles, you can get to Lima in business class. You can also make this trip in economy for 17,500 miles during peak season, or 15,000 miles during off-peak times.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Lima (LIM) – Bogotá (BOG) one-way in American Airlines Flagship Business class for 30,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$19 in taxes and fees
  • New York (JFK) – Lima (LIM) one-way in American Airlines Flagship Business class for 30,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$19 in taxes and fees

12. Fly LATAM Business Class to South America

LATAM business class. Image Credit: LATAM

If you want to keep it simple, you can fly LATAM business class to anywhere in South America for 45,000 Alaska miles. The Los Angeles to Santiago route is particularly exciting since it is flown by the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

If you’re traveling south, be sure to give LATAM a look. See if you can book a stopover in Santiago on your way to one of many other South American cities.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Santiago (SCL) one-way in LATAM business class for 45,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$19 in taxes and fees
  • Orlando (MCO) – São Paulo (GRU) one-way in LATAM business class for 45,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$19 in taxes and fees

13. Fly Icelandair to Iceland

Icelandair business class. Image Credit: Icelandair

Without a doubt, Iceland is one of the most popular destinations in the world right now. However, there are not many airlines that provide year-round service to the island.

Fortunately, Alaska partner Icelandair does, so you can use your Alaska miles to visit at your convenience.

For 50,000 Alaska miles, you can fly business class on Icelandair to Iceland. If you’re looking for the cheapest way to visit Iceland, you can use 22,500 Alaska miles during the low season for an economy ticket. For an extra special vacation, time it right so you can see the Aurora Borealis.

Unfortunately, the business class product is a simple recliner seat, so it may not be worth it to pay the extra premium. Here are some example rouets to consider:

  • Chicago (ORD) – Reykjavik (KEF) one-way in Alaska Airlines business class from 50,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$10 in taxes and fees
  • Portland (PDX) – Reykjavik (KEF) one-way in Alaska Airlines economy from 22,500 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$10 in taxes and fees

14. Fly American Airlines Economy Class During Off-Peak Months

American Airlines economy class. Image Credit: American Airlines

If you’re an economy flyer, Alaska miles provide a great opportunity to fly with American Airlines during off-peak months. An off-peak economy award ticket from the U.S. to Europe only costs 20,000 Alaska miles.

If Asia is more your style, you can fly to South Korea or Japan in economy during off-peak months for only 25,000 miles. Here are some great example routes to consider booking:

  • Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Seoul (ICN) one-way in American Airlines economy class during off-peak months for 25,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$19 in taxes and fees
  • Philadelphia (PHL) – Barcelona (BCN) one-way in American Airlines economy class during off-peak months for 20,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$19 in taxes and fees

Look no further if you need a cheap award flight across the Atlantic or Pacific — Alaska miles have you covered.

15. Cheap Domestic Flights With a Stopover

Alaska Airlines Main Cabin. Image Credit: Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines’ award chart for Alaska-operated flights is a distance-based chart that allows stopovers on the way to your destination. It has cleverly named the tiers: Hop, Skim, Jump, and Leap. All of the below prices refer to economy class tickets.

A “Hop” is any flight less than 700 miles. These flights will cost between 5,000 and 30,000 Alaska miles each way.

A “Skip” includes trips between 701 and 1,400 miles and will cost between 7,500 and 30,000 miles each way.

If you’re looking to fly a little further across the country, you might fall into the “Jump” tier. Flights between 1,401 and 2,100 miles will cost 10,000 to 40,000 Alaska miles.

Finally, if you’re looking for a transcontinental, you will fall into the “Leap” tier. This includes all flights over 2,101 miles and will cost between 12,500 and 50,000 miles.

Here are some great example routes to take:

  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR) one-way in Alaska Airlines economy from 10,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$6 in taxes and fees
  • Portland (PDX) – Sun Valley (SUN) one-way in Alaska Airlines economy from 5,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$6 in taxes and fees
  • Seattle (SEA) – Yakima (YKM) one-way in Alaska Airlines economy from 5,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$6 in taxes and fees
  • Spokane (GEG) – Bellingham (BLI) one-way in Alaska Airlines economy from 5,000 Alaska Airlines miles + ~$6 in taxes and fees

Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed learning about the best ways to use your Alaska miles. Use Mileage Plan miles on flights to get a free stopover on one-way tickets all around North America, including flights to Hawaii.

You’ll also maximize the value of your Mileage Plan miles when you book one of the top first class experiences in the industry on Cathay Pacific, one of Alaska Airlines’ Oneworld partners.

Other Alaska Airlines partners have excellent international award flight availability, too. Fly to South America, Asia, the South Pacific, or Australia to get great value with your Mileage Plan miles.

Happy redeeming!

The information regarding the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® card, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Alaska Airlines miles?

Alaska Airlines’ frequent flyer program is called Mileage Plan. The miles you earn, redeem, and transfer are Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles.

Which credit cards earn Alaska miles?

Both the personal Alaska Signature card and Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card can help you earn additional Alaska miles.

How much are Alaska Airlines miles worth?

The value of Alaska Airlines miles depends on the ticket you are getting. You’ll usually always get somewhere between 1 to 2 cents per point. For example, a lowest fare first class ticket will give you a value of up to 1.6 cents per reward point.

However, if you book first class on partner airlines with extremely expensive tickets such as Cathay Pacific or Japan Airlines, you can receive upwards of 20 cents per point!

At 1.6 cents per point, that’s like getting a $100 ticket for the equivalent of about 6,250 Alaska Airlines miles. At 20 cents per point, that’s like getting a $100 for the equivalent of about 500 miles!

What is Alaska Airlines Club 49?

This club was set up to benefit Alaska residents as a thank you for 80 years of loyalty. Alaska residents can enroll to receive special benefits like discount fares with Alaska Airlines.

How do I use Alaska Airlines companion tickets?

Redeem your Alaska Airlines companion fare from your Mileage Plan account online.

In your Alaska Airlines account, select Valid under Discount Codes on the left side of your account page. On the loaded page, select Shop and use the code listed to find flights. Note the expiration date for this code.

Choose your desired flights for 2 people, and then go through the checkout process ensuring your discount code was applied (it should appear in the summary of the total price for 2 travelers).

Can Alaska Airlines miles be transferred?

Alaska Airlines miles cannot be transferred to other airlines. They can, however, be redeemed for flights on other carriers, hotel stays, car rentals, and more.

Does Alaska Airlines partner with United?

No. See its partners here.

Does Alaska Airlines partner with Delta?

No. See all current airline partners here.

Is Alaska Airlines partners with American?

Yes. See a full list of airline partners here.

When do Alaska Airlines miles post in your account?

Alaska Airlines miles should post to your account within 7 days. Miles from partner airlines’ activity can take 2 to 3 weeks to post.

If miles do not post in this time frame, you may request missing credit.

Are Alaska Airlines miles refundable?

Yes. The “refundable” coach and first class award tickets have no cancellation or change fees, but regular award tickets do (though this is waived for MVP Gold,  MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold 100K members).

When do Alaska Airlines miles expire?

Alaska Airlines miles expire after 24 months of inactivity. Earn or redeem at least 1 mile every 24 months to keep your account from expiring.

About Spencer Howard

Always a fan of flying, it was only natural that Spencer was drawn to finding a way to improve the travel experience.

Like many, he started this journey searching for cheap flights to take him around the world. This was fun for a while, but Spencer was intrigued by the idea of flying in business and first class!

Throwing himself into what became an extensive research project, Spencer spent 3-4 hours per night learning everything he could about frequent flyer miles over the course of several months (he thinks this is normal). He runs Straight to the Points, an award-seat alert platform.

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