How to Travel to Hawaii Using Points and Miles

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For many travelers, a trip to Hawaii signifies entering a tropical paradise. Picture a fragrant flower lei, vibrant hula performances, and relaxing on sun-kissed beaches. Growing up on the island of Oʻahu, I can attest that this reputation for bliss is well-deserved.

While vacations in Hawaii can seem costly, using strategic budgeting tactics can alleviate stress on your wallet. Traveling during shoulder seasons and leveraging public transport are smart ways to save. More significantly, accumulating points and miles will substantially reduce your travel-related expenses, allowing you to spend freely on dining and attractions.

The Cheapest Award Flights to Hawaii

Most travelers head to Honolulu (HNL) and often focus their adventures on Oʻahu. However, if you’re looking to explore more islands, you might find it more economical to fly into HNL and then take a short flight to your next destination, such as Maui (OGG), Kauaʻi (LIH), or the Big Island (KOA).

Top Destinations

• Cheapest Economy Class Ticket: 15,000 Turkish Airlines miles round-trip
• Cheapest Business Class Ticket: 25,000 Turkish Airlines miles round-trip
• Cheapest First Class Ticket: 45,000 Korean Air Skypass miles round-trip

Keep in mind that most airlines are part of alliances (Oneworld, Star Alliance, or SkyTeam). Thus, checking points redemption costs with both the primary carrier and its partners may unveil better options.

Maximize Airline Loyalty Programs

To earn points quickly, utilize travel credit cards with valuable rewards programs and welcome bonuses.

American Airlines AAdvantage

• Economy Class: 40,000–45,000 miles round-trip
• Business Class: 110,000–120,000 miles round-trip
• First Class: 160,000 miles round-trip

British Airways Avios

• Economy Class: 26,000 Avios round-trip
• Business Class: 77,500 Avios round-trip
• First Class: 103,000 Avios round-trip

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

• Economy Class: 30,000 miles round-trip
• First Class: 80,000 miles round-trip

United Airlines MileagePlus

• Economy Class: 23,000 miles round-trip
• Business/First Class: 100,000 miles round-trip

Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles

• Economy Class: 15,000 miles round-trip
• Business Class: 25,000 miles round-trip

Hawaii Hotels You Can Book with Points

Hawaii boasts numerous major hotel brands, such as Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, and IHG, offering extensive options for earning and redeeming points. However, be mindful of additional resort fees that may apply at certain properties.

Some useful credit cards, like those from certain providers, provide annual travel credits that can assist with these costs. The prudent choice is to map out your trip, incorporate point-earning strategies, and ultimately save significantly.

Conclusion

A trip to Hawaii can be both affordable and enjoyable when you strategically utilize points and miles. By signing up for rewarding credit cards and understanding how to maximize loyalty programs, you can not only meet your travel needs but also indulge in the island experience. Plan wisely, and your Hawaiian adventure will be both memorable and economical.